The Triple-Decker Challenge
Somerville’s triple-decker housing is the defining feature of moving in this city. Third-floor triple-decker moves are physically demanding — items must be carried up two or three narrow staircases, around tight corners, and through doorways that were built well before modern furniture sizes were standard. Our crews are trained specifically for this. We bring stair dollies, use extra furniture wrap for staircase carries, and assess large items (like sectional sofas, bed frames, and refrigerators) before the move to identify what needs to be disassembled. We provide free disassembly and reassembly for any item that can’t safely navigate a Somerville staircase intact.
Somerville Parking Permits and Building Access
Somerville requires a Temporary No Parking permit for moving trucks occupying public street spaces, applied to the Somerville DPW at least 5 business days before your move. We submit the application, post No Parking signs 48 hours in advance, and verify the space is clear on moving day. For new developments at Assembly Square and Union Square, we coordinate loading dock access and COI documentation with building management in advance.
What Does It Cost to Move in Somerville?
- Studio or one-bedroom apartment: 2–4 hours of crew time
- Two-bedroom apartment or triple-decker floor: 4–7 hours
- Three-bedroom home or large triple-decker floor: 6–9 hours
- Full building or large home: full day or custom crew
Somerville-specific factors that affect pricing include floor level (first vs. third floor adds significant time), staircase width, the number of large items that require disassembly, and parking distance from the building. We account for all of these in your written estimate — no guesswork.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Somerville
Do I need a parking permit for a move in Somerville?
Yes. Somerville requires a Temporary No Parking permit for moving trucks on public streets. Continental Moving handles the application as part of our standard service at no extra charge.
Can you handle moves in third-floor triple-deckers?
Yes — this is one of our most common Somerville requests. Our crews are trained for staircase carries, use the right equipment, and build time into the estimate to account for multiple stair trips.
What if my furniture won’t fit through a Somerville stairway?
We assess large items before the move. Anything that can’t navigate the staircase safely will be disassembled before the carry and reassembled at the destination. This service is included in our standard pricing.
Do you handle moves at Assembly Square or Union Square new developments?
Yes. We coordinate with property management at Assembly Square, Union Square developments, and all large condo buildings — including COI, elevator booking, and loading dock reservations in advance.
How long does a typical Somerville apartment move take?
A one- or two-bedroom ground-floor apartment typically takes 3–5 hours. A third-floor triple-decker with the same contents can take 5–7 hours due to stair carry time. We factor floor level into every Somerville estimate.
Schedule Your Somerville Move Today
From a Davis Square studio to an Assembly Square penthouse, from a third-floor triple-decker to a new Spring Hill condo, Continental Moving brings the equipment, training, and local knowledge that Somerville moves require. Call us at 508-904-2029 or request a free written estimate online. Same business day response, no obligation, no hidden fees.
