Month: August 2021

Categories
General

Moving To Hoboken, New Jersey – The Complete Guide

Moving to Hoboken, New Jersey - The Complete Guide

Located less than 5 miles away from Manhattan via the PATH train, Hoboken is one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in New Jersey despite being only two square miles. Still, the bustling city offers plenty of restaurants, bars, and beautiful city views. What’s not to love? Not only does the city offer great amenities, but it also houses Stevens Institute of Technology, one of the best engineering schools in the country. All of these reasons are why Hoboken is considered one of the best places to live in New Jersey.

While the city is home to a lot of college students, it’s also a great place for families and professionals. If you’re considering moving to Hoboken and wondering if it’s the right fit for you, keep reading to get all the details on what it’s like to live in Hoboken.

Important Things to Know About Hoboken

Easy Access to New York City and the Rest of NJ

Since Hoboken is so close to New York City, you have a number of public transportation options. The most popular is the PATH train, which takes you to several different stops in New York City, including the World Trade Center, the West Village, and 33rd Street in Midtown. Of course, you can take it to other parts of including Jersey City and Newark of New Jersey. In addition to the PATH, Hoboken also has the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail that can take you to Jersey City, Bayonne, North Bergen, and Union City.

If you’re not a train person, Hoboken offers other options, such as water ferries that take you to downtown or midtown Manhattan. There are also plenty of buses that can shuttle you to different areas in New Jersey.

Hoboken: A Great City for Foodies

Hoboken may be small, but that doesn’t mean it skimps out on its restaurants. They have some truly delectable food options, from Cuban to pizza to deli sandwiches. If you’re looking for some pastries, the famous Carlo’s Bake Shop has been in operation since 1910, serving up some of the best cannolis in the area. You can also take classes with the expert and learn how to level up your cupcakes. The classes last about two hours, and you, of course, get to eat the cupcake after you are done.

The Birthplace of Baseball

Nope, you read that right. Hoboken, New Jersey, is home to Elysian Fields, which is believed to be the site of the first organized baseball game. Back in 1845, the Knickerbocker Club of New York City used Elysian Fields to play baseball due to the lack of grounds in New York City (even back then, NYC didn’t have enough space). On June 19, 1846, the Knickerbockers played the New York Nine on the field in the first officially recorded, organized game between the two clubs.

The field is still in service and has been converted to a neighborhood park where you can play basketball, walk your dog, or just hang out. While there’s no longer a baseball diamond, there is a baseball monument commemorating the history of the former baseball field.

Where to Live in Hoboken, New Jersey

Hoboken isn’t a big city, so there aren’t any set neighborhoods that have names. With that said, as you walk through the city, you will notice how the vibe changes from street to street. In general, there are two ‘locations’ to take note of: uptown and downtown.

 

Flood Risk Awareness in the Hoboken Area

Hoboken Area Flood Risk Level Elevation (Approx.) Flood History Primary Risk Factors Renter Awareness Tip
Southwest Hoboken High Low (Near Sea Level) Frequent during heavy rain & storms Low elevation, poor drainage Avoid ground-floor units
Downtown (Near PATH) Moderate–High Low–Moderate Occasional street flooding Storm surge, runoff Check building flood defenses
Midtown Hoboken Moderate Moderate Rare but possible Localized drainage issues Ask the landlord about past incidents
Uptown Hoboken Low–Moderate Higher Elevation Minimal flooding reported Runoff during severe storms Generally safer choice
Waterfront Areas Moderate Low Storm surge risk Hudson River proximity Verify flood insurance coverage
Overall Hoboken Area-Dependent Varies Improving post-Sandy Heavy rain & coastal storms Review flood maps before renting

 

If you ask Hoboken locals, they’ll tell you that the northern part of the city is where the rich people live. For example, New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning had a condo in the area. As you get closer to the Hudson, you’ll notice rents spike as you’ll be getting great views of the water and Manhattan. This area is great if you want some peace and quiet, though, as there aren’t as many bars or restaurants. They do have some amenities, such as a Trader Joe’s, a movie theater, a new beer garden, and restaurants if you walk away from the Hudson.

If you want to be closer to the action, then you’ll want to stay closer to the train station. This is where all the restaurants, cafes, and bars are. It’s no surprise that most of the entertainment remains centered around this area, as it is close to the university, and it is where commuters will arrive after a long day of work!

Outstanding Schools in Hoboken

Despite its small size, Hoboken is actually home to eight public schools and six private schools. There are four public elementary schools, three pre-k options, and one middle school and high school. Of course, it is also home to Stevens Institute of Technology, so technically your child can stay in Hoboken from pre-k until their Master’s!

Of course, it’s not the quantity of the schools that matters, but the quality. Luckily, Hoboken has one of the highest concentrations of top-ranked public schools in New Jersey, including the Salvatore R. Calabro and Wallace Elementary School. The middle school and high school also offer a wide range of after-school activities, including student athletics, theater, and music.

Jobs in Hoboken

While there aren’t a ton of industries in Hoboken proper, you’re so close to Manhattan that you can easily find plenty of opportunities outside of the area. The median income for a household in the city is $136,402, and the unemployment rate is 2.1 percent vs 3.9 percent countrywide.

Although NYC might be a stone’s throw away, if you don’t want to commute, there are some options available. Stevens Institute of Technology is the biggest contributor to Hoboken’s economy, contributing around $117 million. If you’re into the publishing sector, the city is also the headquarters of publisher John Wiley & Sons. Of course, Hoboken has its own city government, so if you want to work for the government, there are plenty of options available, from working on the city council to being a liaison to the officials.

In addition, Hoboken has plenty of small businesses to choose from. In fact, there are over 180 small businesses in the area, though the majority fall into the hospitality industry. Though several businesses shuttered their doors permanently in 2020-2021 due to the pandemic, more than 40 new businesses opened in 2021, including a doggy daycare, chiropractor’s office, physical therapy office, some tasty restaurants, and more.

Cost of Living in Hoboken

With all of the amenities and its proximity to New York City, it should come as no surprise that Hoboken is one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in NJ, and the cost of living reflects that. When compared to the national average, Hoboken is more expensive in almost every single category except health. Everything else, from utilities to groceries, is significantly higher, earning Hoboken a 175.3 on the cost of living index in contrast to the average of 100. Houses are especially expensive, being almost 300 percent higher than the average. You’d be hard-pressed to find an apartment for sale for under $300,000.

Property taxes are similarly high, with most people paying around $8,300 a year. There aren’t a lot of houses available on the market, and the ones you do find will cost upwards of $1 million. So, unless you have a great job and/or savings, you’ll probably fall squarely into the renter category.

 

Hoboken Cost of Living: Monthly Expense Breakdown

Expense Category Estimated Monthly Cost Notes
Rent – 1 Bedroom $1,900 – $2,200 Higher near waterfront and PATH stations
Rent – 2 Bedroom $2,300 – $2,700 Prices rise for newer buildings and views
Utilities $140 – $200 Electric, gas, water, trash (seasonal)
Internet $70 – $100 High-speed cable or fiber plans
Groceries $350 – $500 Single professional or couple estimate
Dining Out (Avg Meal) $18 – $30 Casual dining (upscale costs more)
Transportation $110 – $160 PATH, bus, or light rail usage
Total Estimated Monthly Cost $2,800 – $3,600+ Excludes parking, childcare, entertainment

 

Still, the majority of people who live in Hoboken are renters. At first glance, it might seem more expensive than New York City, but you do get more space for what you’re paying. A one-bedroom is a true one-bedroom complete with an eat-in kitchen, living room, and bedroom. The median rental price for a one-bedroom is $1,980, and a 2-bedroom is $2,360. You can find more affordable options if you look around a bit and don’t mind a bit of a walk to the PATH train. In general, the closer you get to the water, the higher the rent. With that said, apartments are getting more expensive every year as people flee NYC for cheaper pastures (and lower taxes) in New Jersey.

Safety and Crime

When it comes to safety, Hoboken is quite safe, having less violent and property crime than many other cities across the United States. This is attributed to the city’s high median income and excellent schools.

Naturally, no city is devoid of crime. The most common crime in Hoboken is property crime, namely burglary. In fact, in 2020, burglary spiked 38.3 percent, which police officers attributed to unemployment, the pandemic’s economic issues, and recidivism of previous criminals. With that said, when compared to other cities in the United States, Hoboken still remains quite safe, and crime continues to decrease.

Hoboken Demographics

How many people can live in two square miles? According to the US Census, approximately 52,677! The median age is 31.5, with the largest age bracket aged between 25-34. So if you’re a young professional looking to make some connections with similarly aged people, Hoboken is the perfect place for you! It’s also a great place for singles, as around 62.8 percent of the population is single.

Although white people are the largest bracket of Hoboken residents, coming in at around 70.6 percent, there’s still plenty of diversity, with 16.2 percent identifying as Hispanic and 9.2 percent identifying as Asian. Hoboken is also very well-educated, as 78 percent of the population has a four-year degree.

Hoboken Weather

As part of New Jersey, Hoboken has a humid subtropical climate with humid, warm summers and cold winters. During July and August, the average temperature hovers around 84 degrees. In the winter, the temperature averages around 30 degrees. Hoboken also gets around 48 inches of rain per year and 26 inches of snow per year. All the precipitation can lead to flooding in the main areas of the city. During Hurricane Sandy, the city had to deal with severe flooding issues for days. Since then, the city has created a flood prevention project to curb the damage from future storms. Even with these preventative measures, the lower-lying parts of the city still flood often during heavy rainfalls. If you plan on moving to Hoboken, NJ, you should take a look at the flood map and find apartments that are outside of the most affected areas.

Luckily, these extreme weather events are not frequent. Instead, you’re more likely to experience thunderstorms during the summer months in June, July, and August. Surprisingly, Hoboken also gets a lot of sunny days, numbering around 220 compared to the national average of 205.

One of the benefits of living in Hoboken is that you get to experience all four seasons. While you might get some bad weather, it’s always gorgeous to see the leaves changing color in the fall and the blossoms start blooming in the spring months.

Fun Things to Do in Hoboken

You don’t have to take the PATH train to have some fun! There are plenty of fun things you can do without leaving the area. Whether you’re a lover of the theater or music, there’s something for everyone. You can watch some free Shakespeare during the summer months at Frank Sinatra Park. Due to Hoboken’s large Italian population, there are also many Italian festivals, including Feast of Saint Anthony’s, Saint Ann’s Feast, and the Hoboken Italian Festival. The city also has a farmer’s market that is open every Tuesday from June through October.

 

Top Activities and Attractions in Hoboken

Activity Type Popular Spots Best Time to Visit Cost
Parks & Waterfront Frank Sinatra Park, Pier Walkway Spring–Fall Free
Festivals & Events Italian Festivals, Farmer’s Market Summer–Early Fall Free–Low Cost
Arts & Culture Barsky Gallery, Hoboken Historical Museum Year-Round Free–$10
Architecture & Landmarks Stevens Campus, St. Ann’s Church Daytime Free
Outdoor & Water Activities Resilience Paddle Sports, Dog Parks Late Spring–Summer Free–$40

 

Hoboken is also home to various cultural attractions such as the Barsky Gallery, Hoboken Historical Museum, and the Monroe Center.  If you prefer to admire architecture, you can enjoy the contemporary design of the new Stevens Institute of Technology buildings and then admire the Gothic design of the Church of Our Lady of Grace or the Baroque appearance of Saint Ann’s Church. There’s definitely something for everyone, all within walking distance from each other.

If you’re more into parks, Hoboken has several different options to choose from, and they provide different amenities. You can walk along the pier to enjoy the stunning views of Manhattan, or you can hang out at Jackson Resiliency Park to enjoy the open space. If you have dogs, there are also plenty of dog parks to choose from, so you and your pup can get some exercise and meet some new friends. If you prefer being on the water, you can go to the Resilience Paddle Sports and take classes or go on a tour along the water.

Moving to Hoboken

So, is Hoboken, NJ, a good place to live? That depends on what you’re looking for. However, the small city has plenty to offer, and its close proximity to New York City makes it a favorite place for young professionals. Hoboken has almost everything you need, from great dining, various cultural attractions, nice parks, and good schools. Hopefully, this guide provided you with a bit more insight into whether Hoboken is right for you.

If you’re looking for more information on moving to Hoboken or other places in New Jersey, reach out to us! We’re more than happy to answer any questions, and our team of professional NJ movers can help you plan your move to Hoboken.

Categories
Moving Tips

Complete Guide to Moving into Your First Apartment in NJ

Complete Guide for First Time Apartment Moves

So, you’re ready to leave the nest and move into your first apartment. As exciting as that is, it can also be nerve-racking. Moving at any point in your life can be stressful, but it’s doubly so when you’re getting started with your new life. Although you might not be able to reach a state of zen during your first move, this guide can help plan your moving strategy so you’re not hit with any surprises.

Make Simple Financial Preparations in Your Budget

Moving isn’t cheap. There are a lot of different factors you need to consider when it comes to living on your own. Even if you end up living with roommates, there are still responsibilities and bills you might not be used to, especially if you’ve been living at home. If you’re not sure if you’re ready to live on your own, here are some key financials you should consider before you start looking for a new place:

Income – it goes without saying that in order to pay for your rent and utilities, you’ll need to bring in some money. More importantly, most apartments require you to prove that you have an income and will generally ask for the last several months of pay stubs. Depending on where you live, some landlords might even ask that your salary equals around 40x the monthly rent.

If you don’t have a job yet because you just graduated from college or you’re starting over in a new city, you might not be able to provide proof of income. In these cases,  you can ask a parent or guardian to act as a guarantor for you when signing the lease. This way, the management company will at least know that someone will cover the monthly rent. Ideally, you’ll be able to find some source of income shortly after moving into your apartment.

Budget – Before you start looking for apartments, take a look at your budget. If you haven’t made one or updated it recently, you can use sites like Mint or You Need a Budget to help keep track of your expenses and set a goal to save up for your move. Make sure to include budgets for any bills, payments, debts, savings, and spending money you want for clothes, travel, restaurants, bars, etc.

Once you have set everything up, see how much money you currently have leftover that you can spend on rent and utilities. Depending on where you want to move, this might mean you need to set aside $800-$1,000. In more popular cities, you might have to budget for at least $1,500 if you don’t want roommates. Of course, there is always the roommate option, which we will get to later on.

Save for fees – Most apartments and even roommate situations will ask for a chunk of money upfront when you sign a new lease. These fees include an application fee, security deposit (usually the same amount as one month’s rent), administration fee, and at least the first month’s rent, though some might ask for last month’s rent as well. If you used a broker, you might also be required to pay a broker’s fee. All in all, if you’re looking to rent an apartment for $1,500/month, you may need to save up close to $5,00,0, depending on what your landlord/management company requires.

This doesn’t even account for the actual cost of moving. Whether you rent a truck or hire a professional moving service, you’ll need to set aside some money to pay for it. Even if you rent a truck, these can cost between $50-$200, depending on the size you need, the distance you travel, and how long you rent it out for. While renting a truck is the cheapest option, you will have to do all of the loading and unloading yourself, which is grueling work and can often lead to injuries. While hiring professional movers might be more expensive, it ultimately will save you a lot of time and even money in the long run. Depending on how much you need to move, hiring movers can cost anywhere between $300-$1,500. It’s up to you to decide whether you want to do a DIY move or not, so make sure to weigh the pros and cons of each option.

Finding the Right Apartment Based on Your Needs

Your finances will be the most defining parameter in finding a place to live. Having a steady income and saving up in advance will open up a lot more options when it comes to apartment hunting. However, if saving up that much cash isn’t feasible, there are other options available:

Start your search early – if you know you’re going to need a place to live in the next few months, get a head start. May-August tends to be the busiest season for rentals, so if you want a good deal, you’ll have to start looking as soon as possible. If you are able, the best time to get a good deal is to look in the off-season, so anywhere between October and February. While there aren’t as many rentals on the market, most landlords or management companies are more willing to negotiate on the rates, as there aren’t as many people moving during this time.

Get a roommate (or 2) – this way you can cut your rent by at least 50 percent, allowing you to get to your target rent amount and also cutting your bills in half as well. If you have a friend or acquaintance who also happens to be moving at the same time, ask if they are interested in moving in together. Of course, before you decide to live together, you should first assess your own needs when it comes to roommates. Do you prefer a quiet and clean environment? What are your thoughts on smoking and/or pets? You should spend some time hashing out both your and your potential roommates’ needs and see if they actually mesh. It won’t work if you want a quiet apartment, but your roommate is someone who likes to bring the party home, for example. If you don’t have anyone you know moving, you can still find a roommate through various sites and apps. When going in for the interview, make sure to ask questions about their lifestyle and understand what the other person requires from you to see if it will work out before you decide to move in.

 

Apartment Hunting Checklist: Tips to Find the Right Place

Tip What to Do Why It Matters
1 Start your search early, ideally before peak rental season (May–August) or during off-season (Oct–Feb) Better deals, more negotiating power, and wider selection
2 Get a roommate (or 2) if needed Cuts rent and utility costs, making your budget more manageable
3 Look outside the major city hub Cheaper rents, potential for up-and-coming neighborhoods with amenities
4 Consider utilities included in rent or out-of-pocket Avoid surprises in monthly costs; helps with accurate budgeting
5 Look for private rentals through Craigslist, Facebook groups, or local classifieds May find cheaper options not listed on big broker platforms
6 Make it work with your budget: personalize your space with decor and minor upgrades Turns a less expensive or less ideal apartment into a comfortable home

 

Look outside the major city hub – The most expensive apartments tend to be where all the action is located. While it’s great to be in the center of the action, if you can’t swing the expensive rent, you’ll have to look outside of the area. Many apartments that are 30 minutes outside the main hub will offer much cheaper rents. If you take the time to look around, you might even be able to spot some great up-and-coming areas that offer a lot of amenities you want for a lower price than the main city.

Consider utilities – For most apartments, the monthly rent just covers the actual cost of your room. However, some might lump in some utilities. Many apartment complexes are required to provide the basics in your rent, including heat and hot water, and you will have to cover electricity, cable/internet, and gas. Others might not offer any utilities in their rent, so everything will be out-of-pocket. When looking for your new place, make sure to see what is included. If it’s not listed, call up the agent on the listing and ask. A $700 might sound great, but if you have to pay for all of the utilities, you could end up paying over $1,000 a month.

Look for private rentals – it’s easy to find rentals from major brokers and real estate companies, as they have the money to list on the major rental sites and apps. However, don’t discount private rentals. While these can be harder to find, you can check sites like Craigslist or even join local Facebook groups. You can also look through your town’s local classifieds to search for these private rentals. Of course, you should always confirm the legitimacy of the posts beforehand.

Make it work – at the end of the day, if you don’t have a huge budget to spend on rent and utilities, you’ll have to come to terms with the fact that you might not be able to afford the apartment of your dreams, at least not yet. This might mean you have to live with someone else or in an area that isn’t as desirable. In that case, work to make the interior of the apartment into a space you enjoy. Do a little painting and invest in some artwork/decorations to make the place feel like home.

Research the Apartment and Building Management

Once you’ve narrowed down your apartment options to a handful, you should take the time to do some research on both the apartment and the landlord/building management. While this means more legwork for you, it also means you can avoid potential bad landlords and/or roommates, both of which can lead to unnecessary amounts of stress in the long run. To avoid potential disaster, do the following:

Find and Read Reviews – do a quick search for your apartment and building management, and read reviews from previous tenants. If the place or landlord is no good, many renters will often warn others. You can also type in the location of the building and find some documents and permits to look over the work that has been done to the building. In some cities, you can also request a one-year bed bug infestation history.

Visit the apartment – this might sound obvious, but there are many people who will rent a site unseen. Pictures and videos can’t really capture the essence of the apartment, and no broker or landlord will highlight problem areas as they’re trying to rent the place out. Visiting in person ensures that you know exactly what you get. Even if the apartment seems nice, there might be other issues, such as thin walls, a bus stop right in front of your window, smokers, and more. If possible, try to visit the apartment during the evening after work so you can see exactly what it would be like to live there.

Ask questions – As you view the apartment, don’t be afraid to ask questions, especially if you notice some troubling signs of water damage or poor maintenance. Even if there aren’t any obvious signs, it’s still good to ask a few things so that you know what to expect. Some common questions you can ask include:

  • What is the turnover rate of the building
  • How long has this apartment been vacant
  • How long is the lease
  • When is the rent due each month
  • What is the rent increase, and how often does it occur
  • Under what conditions can I break the lease
  • Can I sublease
  • Is there an on-site maintenance person who can help with my requests, and how quickly do they respond
  • Can I paint the apartment
  • Is there on-site laundry? If not, where is the nearest laundromat
  • Are pets allowed
  • Is smoking allowed

Getting the Apartment That Becomes Your New Home

So you’ve found your dream home and everything seems to be in order. Now what? In order to turn this apartment into your new home, you’ll have to work fast, especially in highly competitive cities. To give yourself a better chance of getting the apartment, do the following:

Bring necessary documentation during your tour – sometimes you can wait a couple of days before making your decision, but in general apartments get snatched up quickly, especially during prime renting season. If you’ve found the perfect place, you will have to be prepared to provide all of the necessary information on the spot. This includes:

  • Money for the deposit
  • Proof of income
  • Contact info for references
  • Credit score and social security number
  • Photo ID

Read the lease – If everything checks out, you’ll get moved along to the next step in the process, which is actually signing the lease and paying the rest of the deposit. Take your time and read over the lease with a fine-tooth comb. Check to make sure everything you had discussed previously is in the lease, including lease length, rent costs, rent due date, terms for breaking the lease, and so on. Don’t sign unless you agree and are willing to adhere to the lease. If you have questions or some of the terms seem different, bring them up and see if you can make the lease more in line with what you were told.

Once you sign the lease, the apartment is yours! Congratulations, but you’re not out of the woods yet! You’ll still need to take a few more steps to ensure a smooth transition to your brand-new apartment.

Moving Into Your New Apartment

You’re almost at the finish line, but there are a few more things you need to be aware of before you can actually start moving your stuff in:

Pick a move-in date – Work with your landlord or management company and agree on the move-in date. Usually, most places want you to move in on the first of the month, but if this isn’t possible due to your schedule, try to work something out that will work. Most people are okay if you move in a bit later, so long as you don’t ask for prorated rent! If you need to move a few days before your lease starts, you might be able to do it for a small fee.

Confirm moving instructions – there’s nothing worse than not being allowed to actually move your stuff in on moving day. To make sure you don’t run into any issues, ask whether there are any specific instructions you need to follow on moving day. For example, ask whether you are able to move yourself or if the building requires you to hire professional movers. Many newer and luxury buildings require movers as they are able to provide something called a certificate of insurance, which will hold the movers liable if they damage anything. You should also ask if you need to reserve elevators, if there’s a loading dock where you can drive in, and if there’s nearby parking you can reserve.

Document any damage – Before you move, take a closer inspection of the apartment and take pictures of any damage done by the previous tenant. Send these over to the landlord so that they also have a copy. This way, when you move out, you won’t get your security deposit withheld for damages you did not cause.

 

Move-In Day Checklist

Step What to Do When to Complete Why It Matters
1 Confirm move-in date with landlord 1–2 weeks before move Prevents access issues and unexpected fees
2 Review building moving rules 1 week before Avoids fines, delays, or denied move-ins
3 Reserve elevator or loading area 5–7 days before Speeds up the move and reduces conflicts
4 Photograph and document existing damage Before unloading Protects your security deposit
5 Set up utilities and internet 1–2 weeks before Ensures services are active on move-in day
6 Choose DIY or professional movers 1 week before Balances cost, time, and physical effort
7 Update address and important accounts Within the first week after the move Prevents missed mail and billing issues

 

Set up utilities – As soon as possible, call up your local utilities and get the necessities set up, like electricity, gas, water, and internet. You want to call in advance so you can have all of these services up and running the day you move in. Make sure to give them your billing information, address, and move-in date so they can schedule the services to turn on.

Make the move – Once you’ve packed all your belongings and confirmed all the moving instructions, you can move in! Decide on how you want to do your move. If you have a lot of heavy furniture, it might make sense to hire professional movers to do the job for you. If you don’t have the budget for it, enlist the help of friends and family if you can, and make sure to thank them with some pizza and cold beverages afterwards.

Change your address – Once you’ve settled in, take some time to update your billing address for any profiles, memberships, and important documents. If you’re moving out of state, remember to update your license and license plate. Don’t forget to alert friends and family about your address!

Shop for Your New Place

Now that you’ve finally moved in, you’re ready to furnish your apartment. It’s all too easy to splurge and buy every little knick-knack you find, especially with your first place, but take a moment to pause and reflect on what you need. If you’re not sure, take a look at the list below as your starting point:

  • Flashlight
  • Cleaning supplies (soap, vacuum, mop, sponges, broom, toilet bowl cleaner)
  • Extra set of keys
  • Some knives
  • Cutting board
  • Can opener
  • Plates/bowls
  • Utensils
  • Cookware – skillet, pot
  • Cooking utensils – spatula, ladle
  • Towels – dish and bath
  • Spices
  • Trashcans
  • Bathroom essentials – plunger, shower curtain/rod, bath mat
  • First aid kit
  • Sheets, pillows, blankets, pillow cases
  • Laundry detergent and laundry bag/basket
  • Dresser
  • Hangers
  • Mattress
  • Curtains
  • Microwave and/or toaster oven
  • Small coffee table or larger dining room table (if you can fit one)
  • Chairs
  • Candles
  • AA batteries
  • Tool kit – hammer, screwdriver, handsaw, power drill, nails, screws
  • Sewing kit

Take a look at the items you brought with you and cross-reference them with this list. If you are missing anything, make sure to add it to your next shopping trip. You don’t have to buy everything immediately or at the same time. The only thing you should try to get as soon as possible is a mattress, as it’s no fun to sleep on the floor or on an air mattress for too long. Once you get all of the essentials, you should think about how you can decorate the apartment in a way that speaks to you. Maybe that means painting the walls a different color or putting up some snazzy artwork. Just make sure to shop with intention during this phase, as it’s easy for spending to get out of control during this phase.

Conclusion

Moving into your own place is a huge step and is definitely the first marker for adulthood for many people. Hopefully, the guide above can help prepare you for what to expect and make your move less stressful. If you want to further reduce your stress, make sure to hire a professional moving service (like us), and we can get everything moved in and out quickly.

Categories
General

Certificate of Insurance for Moving (COI)

Certificate of Insurance for Moving (COI)

If you’re moving to a new apartment or condo, you might hear from your new building management that you need to provide a certificate of insurance before you can move in. In fact, many luxury buildings require you to provide a certificate of insurance (COI) for moving, which means you’ll need to hire professional NJ movers. NJ Great Movers provides our COI directly to the management team, but we also send it to you so you can keep it in your files. Even though you don’t have to worry about the COI, it’s still a good idea to understand the form.

What is a COI and Why Do You Need It?

A certificate of insurance (COI) essentially is proof that the movers you are using have insurance and are able to cover issues should something go wrong. It will list out the insurance the movers have, along with the liability and loss coverage. This way, if anything happens to the building, such as damage or injury, the mover’s insurance covers the cost of repairs or accidents.

Most reputable moving companies, like NJ Great Movers, can easily procure and provide a COI to your building management company. Although there is no standard for what a certificate of insurance should look like, most businesses use the form created by the Association for Cooperative Operations Research and Development (ACORD). A COI generally includes the following information:

  • Date of issue
  • Information about the certification of insurance
  • An insurance agent or broker who produced/issued the certificate
  • Name and address of the business covered by the policy
  • Liability insurance coverage (general, commercial auto, umbrella, and workers’ compensation)
  • List of insurers
  • Coverage in dollars each policy provides
  • Description of operations, locations, and vehicles
  • Expiration date of insurance
  • Signature of agent, broker, or authorized representatives

While not all buildings will require a COI, if you live somewhere with a doorman or hands-on super, chances are your move won’t happen if you don’t provide one. That means you’ll have to scramble for last-minute storage space for your belongings and reschedule your movers. That’s extra money you probably don’t have! Even if your building says they don’t need one, it’s still a good idea to provide a COI just in case. Why? Because a COI also protects you!

As an example, let’s say you move into a building that doesn’t require a COI. You then move your stuff in, but damage the walls and maybe even the elevators! Maybe you even get a parking ticket during the move. You will be held liable for these damages and have to pay for any repairs and tickets out of pocket. This could cost you thousands of dollars! There’s also the matter of your belongings. If it gets damaged during your own DIY move, you will have to cover the entire cost of replacement or repair. This can get costly if you own a lot of high-value items.

On the other hand, you don’t have to worry about any of that if you hire professional movers. They will shoulder the responsibility for any damages done to the building and, of course, take care of any parking tickets that were for their vehicles. Your items are also automatically protected by something called released value protection, which will cover up to $0.60 per pound per item for free. If you want, you can spring for the more expensive full value protection. If something gets damaged, the movers will either try to fix, replace, or eventually reimburse you for the damaged items. Ideally, the professional NJ movers wouldn’t damage anything since they are highly experienced and know how to maneuver tight corners and narrow hallways.

 

Types of Insurance Covered in a COI

Insurance Type Purpose / Coverage Typical Coverage Limit (USD) Notes / Example
General Liability Covers property damage or bodily injury caused by the movers during the move (e.g., wall damage, elevator scratches, visitor injury) $1,000,000 Protects both the building and you from lawsuits or repair costs
Auto Liability Covers damages or accidents caused by moving company vehicles while transporting your items $1,000,000 Includes parking tickets or damage caused during loading/unloading
Umbrella Liability Provides extra coverage beyond general and auto liability for catastrophic events or large claims $5,000,000 Acts as a safety net for rare but costly incidents
Workers Compensation Covers medical expenses and lost wages if a moving company employee is injured while handling your belongings $1,000,000 Ensures you are not held liable for worker injuries during the move

 

Even if you don’t think your building needs a COI, call up your super or building management company and ask. They will probably appreciate the heads up, and most prefer their tenants to use moving companies anyway, as it reduces the chance of potential issues in the future.

There’s also another hidden benefit of asking for a COI. It shows whether the company you chose is reputable or not. All legitimate moving companies are required to carry a minimum amount of insurance. The best moving companies provide more than that. For example, NJ Great Movers has the following insurance:

  • $1 million limit for commercial general liability
  • $1 million limit for automobile liability
  • $5 million for umbrella liability
  • $1 million for workers’ compensation

Asking for a COI early on in the moving process is a good litmus test to see how trustworthy the movers are. If they aren’t able to provide one or they only provide the bare minimum when it comes to insurance coverage, you’ll have enough time to look for other movers.

When requesting a COI, always ask for a copy. That way, you can also check the information. While most movers are legitimate, there’s always the chance you could run into a scam company. So even if they do provide a COI, it could be fake or not up-to-date. When looking at the COI check to make sure the name and address match what is listed on the company’s website. Also, check the expiration date of the insurance to make sure the company is still covered. You should also make sure the COI is filled out exactly like the sample. Otherwise, the building will reject it! While most buildings will find these errors immediately, you can save yourself a lot of back and forth and potential stress by catching these things early.

NJ Great Movers Simple COI Process and Steps

If you work with NJ Great Movers, we make the process of requesting a COI as seamless as possible. With that said, you’ll still need to do a little legwork. Naturally, your first step is confirming with both your buildings whether you need a COI to move in and/or out. While you’re on the phone, see if a COI is needed to reserve the freight elevator. If that’s the case, let us know so we can expedite the process. You’ll want to reserve a time as soon as possible to avoid conflicts with other people. After all, you don’t want to waste an hour or two waiting for the freight elevator! After that, get in touch with your property manager(s) and get a sample of the COI, and then send it over to us.

We’ll take over from there. We’ll send the sample COI over to our insurance company so that they can fill out the forms properly. Our team will also check to make sure all of our insurance has expiration dates after your move date and provide the appropriate insurance and coverage amount. Once we’ve double-checked everything, we’ll send a copy to your management company and to you. That way, if they somehow miss the email, you will have a copy on file. We do ask that at least a week before your move date, you confirm with the property managers that they received the COI and that everything is in working order. Just in case, we’ll also bring a hard copy of the COI with us on the move date, as there have been a few occasions where the security guard and/or doorman on duty did not have the COI we had sent on file. This way, we can prevent any delays in your move!

Our goal as professional and trusted NJ movers is to make your move as smooth and easy as possible. That’s why we triple-check everything to make sure nothing falls through the cracks. Thanks to our decades of experience, we can cover even the most complex building management requirements. Just let us know as soon as possible so we can get the process started!

Conclusion

Getting a certificate of insurance might sound daunting at first, but if you work with trustworthy moving companies like NJ Great Movers, we make the process as easy as possible. You can rest assured knowing that we will take care of everything come moving day and that if anything should happen, you won’t have to worry about paying.

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5 Simple Steps to Hiring Professional NJ Movers

5 Simple Steps to Hiring Professional NJ Movers

At first glance, hiring a professional NJ mover might seem easy. After all, there are dozens of companies to choose from that all tout affordable prices and good service. However, not everything you read on the internet is true. There are plenty of scam/unsavory moving companies who are more than happy to separate you from as much of your money as possible.

To reduce your chances of getting scammed, it’s important to plan and gather information before you hire your mover. If you want to make sure you’re hiring only the best NJ movers, then follow the steps below to avoid potential disaster.

Understand and Identify What You Actually Need

Before you even look into NJ movers, you first need to decide what kind of move you will do. Your options will depend on how much stuff you have to move, the distance you’re traveling, and your budget. If you are short on time and you have a flexible budget, a full-service move might be a great option. The movers will help you pack, disassemble, and reassemble your furniture and, of course, load and unload your belongings.

Of course, a full-service move is the most expensive option. These can cost upwards of $4,000 for a studio or one-bedroom, with the price going up the more you have. You can also pack everything yourself and just hire movers to load and unload your boxes and furniture. Not only will this save you a lot of money, but it also gives you the best of both worlds as you get to organize your boxes exactly how you like without dealing with the physical strains moving puts on your body.

For those on a very tight budget and/or who don’t have a lot to move, the cheapest option is to hire a moving truck, which can cost as little as $150! You have more flexibility as you don’t have to stick to the mover’s timeline. However, this also puts the most responsibility on your shoulders. If you end up damaging your belongings or the building you’re moving into, you are responsible for the cost of repair.

Research and Shop Around

Now that you’ve figured out your needs and your budget, it’s time to shop around for local movers near you. A quick search should turn up plenty of options, but only note the companies that have good customer reviews, offer the services you need, and work in your area.

Once you’ve made your list, do a quick background check by looking them up on the Better Business Bureau or entering their company name or USDOT number into the US Department of Transportation website. While you might not be able to read reviews, you can find pertinent information such as the number of crashes, what type of cargo they are legally allowed to carry, if they are authorized to move specific items (movers should at least be authorized for household goods or HHG), and more. If the movers don’t have their numbers on their site, you can try searching by name. If they don’t pop up, you should probably cross the company off your list, as all movers are required to register with the US Department of Transportation. Many states, including New Jersey, require movers to also register with the state where they operate. If they’re not listed, it’s a good sign they are not a legitimate company.

 

Required Licenses & Registrations for Legitimate NJ Movers

License / Registration Issued By What It Authorizes Why It Matters to Customers
USDOT Number U.S. Department of Transportation Allows interstate household goods transportation Confirms the mover is federally registered and trackable for safety violations
HHG Authorization FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) Legal authority to transport household goods Ensures the company is permitted to move personal belongings, not just freight
NJ State Moving License New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs Allows intrastate moves within New Jersey Required for legal operation in NJ and consumer protection compliance
General Liability Insurance Private insurance carrier Covers property damage and bodily injury Protects you if the movers damage your building or cause an accident
Certificate of Insurance (COI) Provided by the mover upon request Proof of insurance coverage for buildings Required by most NJ apartments, condos, and commercial buildings

 

Finally, look up customer reviews on Yelp and Google Reviews. Read both positive and negative reviews to get the most accurate picture. Some red flags to look out for include:

  • A lot of damage complaints
  • Consistent last-minute changes
  • Unexpected delays
  • Companies holding belongings hostage for money

While there will always be a handful of bad reviews, if you notice a trend of negative reviews, you should cross them off your list. In general, a company with mostly positive reviews should be fine. Still, if you do see a review that says the company held their belongings hostage, you should reach out to the reviewer to ask further questions. This is a huge red flag and is not something you want to deal with. So ask the appropriate questions and find out the full story as best you can.

Of course, online reviews aren’t a replacement for word-of-mouth recommendations from people you know. Ask friends, family, and co-workers what moving companies they recommend and which ones to avoid. Nothing beats personal experience!

Reach Out to a Few Trustworthy Expert Movers

Once you’ve done your research and whittled down your list of movers, it’s time to contact them via email or telephone. Provide them with the essential information for your move, and don’t forget to ask questions! There are a few fundamental questions you should ask moving companies before you book them:

  • How long has your company been in business?
  • Are you licensed, and can you provide your license information?
  • What kind of insurance or ‘valuation’ do you offer to protect my goods?
  • Do you have the appropriate moving equipment for my job?
  • Do you require a deposit?
  • What is your cancellation/rescheduling policy?
  • How do you prevent damage to my belongings?
  • What happens if my items go missing or get broken?
  • How do you handle disputes and claims?
  • Can you provide a certificate of insurance?

A trustworthy moving company will be able to answer these questions with no hesitation. Make sure to pay attention and write down the answers to these questions. Also, pay attention to how they answer you. A polite and professional attitude is what you’re looking for. If they try to avoid the questions or, worse, get angry and start yelling, cross them off your list.

Even if the first movers seem perfect, go ahead and talk with the others on your list. You want to have as many good options as possible so you can compare and contrast their services and prices.

Get an Estimate from Movers and Compare It

Keep in mind that in order to get the most accurate quote/estimate, you need to provide as much information as possible to the movers. In the past, movers would do a home visit to see everything you needed to move, as well as potential obstacles/issues they would need to deal with. With COVID-19, most movers are doing this all via a virtual walkthrough, so make sure you show them everything! That includes mentioning whether you live in a walk-up or elevator building and if your old and/or new building will require a certificate of insurance. You should also ask if you will need to reserve parking spots or elevators on moving day, as you don’t want to be charged extra because the movers couldn’t find a parking spot.

 

Final Mover Comparison Scorecard

Evaluation Criteria What to Check Scoring Range Why It Matters
Licensing Score USDOT number, NJ state registration, HHG authorization 0–25 points Verifies the mover is legally authorized to operate and transport household goods
Review Rating Average Google & Yelp star ratings, review count, consistency 0–20 points Shows real customer satisfaction and service reliability over time
Price Transparency Score Written estimates, clear fees, no vague charges 0–20 points Helps prevent lowball quotes and surprise charges on moving day
Insurance Coverage Score Valuation options, COI availability, claims process 0–20 points Ensures financial protection if items are damaged, lost, or delayed
Overall Trust Index Total score across all evaluation categories 0–100 points Provides a simple, objective way to compare NJ movers side by side

 

Once you have gotten the full estimate, read it over and make sure you understand everything. If there’s something in the estimate that you don’t understand, call the company and have them clarify why you are being charged a fee. After that, compare all of the estimates and your overall impressions of each moving company. Yes, it might be tempting to go with the lowest offer, but many scam movers lowball the estimate, so don’t go for the cheapest option, especially if you notice a lot of red flags!

Choose the Best Professional Movers for Your Move

The best NJ movers for you should be obvious by the time you have reached this final step. All you have to do now is call them up, confirm the details, and sign the moving contract. The company should provide you with a Bill of Lading and an inventory list for your belongings – both of which are basic moving-related documents. Make sure to keep this with you during the entire move so that you can cross-reference everything once you’re in your new place.

On moving day, make sure you’re prepared and that you have packed and disassembled everything (if you’re not doing a full-service move). Stay focused and provide clear directions for getting to your new home and where to place the boxes and furniture in your new home. If the movers are late or something seems off, call the company immediately. You should also check the condition of your belongings on arrival and inform the movers if you notice any problems.

Hire the Best Professional NJ Movers

Finding the right movers for the job isn’t a difficult task, but it can be time-consuming. You should start looking for movers in NJ at least a month before your expected move date so you have enough time to do your research. Provided you didn’t skip any of the steps, you should have a stress-free moving experience. Also, don’t forget to leave a positive review on a third-party review site so other people who are moving can find a trustworthy moving company.