Build your dock & certificate checklist

1. Confirm the loading dock booking Ask building management for a dock window on your move date. City docks are usually weekday daytime in roughly one-hour slots, so book early — especially for weekends or end of month.
2. Check the dock height clearance CBD dock clearances are commonly 3.5 to 4.5 m, below a standard pantech. Get the figure so the right box truck is sent and the move is not turned away at the entry.
3. Plan kerb / laneway loading and timing With no dock, loading is from the nearest legal spot. The City works zone is construction-only (6 to 8 weeks, 26-week blocks), so the realistic tool is a visitor parking permit (truck under 4.5 t, not for post-2000 flats) plus careful timing. We scout the spot first.
4. Book the goods / freight lift Reserve the goods or freight lift — not the passenger lift — for your window. Confirm whether lift pads or blankets are mandatory; most buildings require them.
5. Measure the lift and doorways Get the internal lift dimensions and door widths. A lounge or fridge that will not fit the lift becomes a stair carry, so it is better known before the day than discovered on it.
6. Plan the stair carry With no lift — common in Potts Point, Elizabeth Bay and Darlinghurst walk-ups — every item is carried up the stairs. Note the number of floors, any tight turns or landings, and any heritage finishes that need protecting.
7. Get the removalist certificate of currency Ask your removalist for a current certificate of currency for their public-liability cover. Most city buildings require a copy before unlocking the dock or releasing the lift; some ask for cover up to $20 million. We provide ours as standard.
8. Lodge the move notice with building management Give building management written notice of your move, usually 72 hours to two weeks ahead. Confirm in writing the approved date, the dock/lift window, and anything they need from the movers.
9. Ask about a bond or extra requirements Stricter buildings and new precincts (for example Barangaroo) may want a refundable bond, contractor details, inductions or named-insurance details. Confirm these early — they are the things that stall a move at the gate.
10. Confirm protection and the carry path Agree how floors, walls, the lift and common areas will be protected, and keep the path from the dock or door to the lift clear on the day. We bring the trolleys, pads and crew.
11. Plan both ends If you are moving to another city building, repeat all of this for the new address and line the two windows up so the truck is not idle between them. We coordinate both ends.

Prepared with Sydney City Removals — the certificate of currency comes as standard with every move. Indicative guidance: confirm the exact requirements with your own building management.