Guides & Tips

Six to eight weeks' lead time, clear roles on moving day, parking restriction signs 72 hours ahead, registration within two weeks: how to keep your move relaxed.

Hiring a van for your move: class B up to 3.5 t, C1 up to 7.5 t, old class 3 from before 1999, trailers with BE, payload, securing the load and size.

Moving sustainably: sort out first, use second-hand boxes, give furniture in Berlin to the BSR's NochMall, return old appliances to retailers, choose a shared load.

DIY move or moving company? Hire van up to 3.5 t on a category B licence, helpers, liability (§ 451e HGB: €620/m³), § 35a EStG and time required – an honest comparison.

What matters on the first day in your new home: beds, bathroom and kitchen first, note the meter readings, find the fuse box and plan registration within two weeks.

Informing neighbours before a move: sample text for the notice, when to put it up, arranging lift and stairwell, explaining the parking restriction – old and new neighbours.

Moving in rain and winter: protect boxes from the wet, clear paths, drain the washing machine, let electronics acclimatise, check liability under § 451e HGB.

Professionals are liable under the HGB up to €620 per m³; with friends, often only a liability policy covering favours pays. Costs, time and mixed solutions compared.

How to spot a reputable moving company: an imprint with a full address, a survey, a written quote, notice of liability (§ 451g HGB) and no large prepayment.