Moving often presents special challenges for people with physical limitations or disabilities. The new home should barrier-free & easily accessible and the move itself must be carefully planned. To ensure that the move is as stress-free as possible, we have important tips & checklists to help you to organize a smooth and accessible move.
1. Why does a barrier-free move require special planning?
📦 1. Find the right apartment & adapt it
✅ Barrier-free access, wide doors and a step-free entrance are essential.
✅ If necessary, Alterations or adjustments before moving in take place.
🚛 2. Organize a move without obstacles
✅ People with mobility restrictions often need specialized moving services or helpers.
✅ Accessible means of transport and furniture assembly are importantto ensure a smooth process.
🛠 3. Clarify financing & support
✅ In many cases, Health insurance companies or social welfare offices the costs for necessary adjustments.
✅ If necessary, a accessible moving service be used.
💡 Tip: The better the preparation, the less stressful the move will be!
2. Find the perfect barrier-free apartment
🏡 1. Criteria for a disability-friendly apartment
✅ Step-free entrance & elevator (if the apartment is not on the ground floor).
✅ Wide door frames & enough space for wheelchair or walking aid.
✅ Accessible bathroom & non-slip flooring.
✅ Safety elements such as grab handles and automated doors.
🔍 2. Where can I find barrier-free apartments?
✅ Specialized real estate platforms for barrier-free apartments to use.
✅ Ask social welfare offices or disability organizations about available housing options.
✅ If necessary: Hire architects or craftsmen for individual conversions.
💡 Tip: If the apartment you want is not completely barrier-free, check what adjustments are possible!
3. Accessible moving: step-by-step instructions
📋 Step 1: Moving planning & organization
✅ Organize moving helpers or a Hire a barrier-free moving company.
✅ If necessary, a apply for financial support for the move.
📦 Step 2: Prepare furniture & transport
✅ Pack furniture so that it is easily accessible in the new apartment.
✅ If necessary, Special transport for wheelchairs or medical equipment plan.
🚛 Step 3: Stay stress-free on moving day
✅ If necessary, a Organize transport with a lifting platform or ramp.
✅ Plan for a companion or moving helper to support you during the move.
💡 Tip: A detailed plan helps to make the move structured and stress-free!
4. Accessible relocation with professional help
🚛 1. Specialized moving companies for people with disabilities
✅ There are companies that specialize in specializing in barrier-free removals and furniture assembly.
✅ These often offer Assistance with heavy furniture, stair transport & special transport for aids.
🏠 2. Support from social services & nursing staff
✅ If care is required, it should be organized early.
✅ An outpatient care service can help ease the transition to the new home.
💳 3. Financial support for moving and housing
✅ Nursing care funds & social welfare offices cover the costs of barrier-free adaptations under certain conditions.
✅ In many cities there are Funding programs for accessible housing.
💡 Tip: Clarify all formalities early to secure financial support!
5. Important adaptations for barrier-free living
🚪 1. Accessible entrances & doors
✅ Widen door frames & remove thresholds.
✅ Install automatic doors or easy-to-use door handles.
🚿 2. Adapt the bathroom
✅ Install floor-level shower & grab bars.
✅ If necessary, a Shower seat or height-adjustable sink install.
🏡 3. Make the kitchen and living area barrier-free
✅ Work surfaces & cabinets on a suitable height for wheelchair users adjust.
✅ Sockets & light switches bring to a tangible level.
💡 Tip: Specialized housing consultants help find the best solutions for barrier-free living!
6. Avoid common mistakes when moving to a barrier-free location
❌ Do not check apartment for accessibility → Solution: Create a checklist with the most important criteria.
❌ Do not apply for financial assistance → Solution: Check funding opportunities and support early on.
❌ Not using an accessible moving service → Solution: If necessary, hire a specialized moving company.
❌ Do not adapt furniture to new needs → Solution: Optimize closets, kitchen & bathroom before moving.
💡 Tip: A forward-looking plan saves later adjustments and costs!
7. Checklist for a successful accessible move
📌 Before the move:
✅ Check new apartment for accessibility & plan adjustments.
✅ Clarify financial support from the nursing care insurance fund or social welfare office.
✅ If necessary, book a professional moving service for special transports.
📦 During the move:
✅ Safely pack and transport aids such as wheelchairs or walking aids.
✅ Place important furniture and objects so that they are easily accessible.
✅ Plan for a companion or nursing assistant to provide support.
🏡 After the move:
✅ If necessary, make additional adjustments in the new apartment.
✅ Install everyday aids (e.g. emergency call systems, light switches at an accessible height).
✅ Ensure safety & comfort – optimize barrier-free furniture & technology.
💡 Tip: The better the planning, the more pleasant the transition into your new home!
Conclusion: How to make a stress-free, accessible move
✔ Plan early & choose the right barrier-free apartment
✔ Use support from family, moving companies & social services
✔ Make important adjustments before moving in
✔ Apply for financial assistance for moving and renovations
🚛 Are you planning a barrier-free move? Praktik Transport offers tailor-made solutions for disabled-accessible relocations! Get a non-binding offer now! 🏡♿✨