Road occupancy permit for moving: guide and checklist

Securing space to park the truck on moving day is one of the «small» steps that make the biggest difference. When there is clear access for unloading, the process is faster, safer and less stressful - especially in densely populated areas of Greece.

At 1 glance: what you will gain

Reduce delays (and unforeseen costs).
You reduce the risk of damage (fewer «go-arounds» on the road).
Avoid problems with neighbours/interference.
Know in time if you need authorisation to occupy a roadway for moving house.

What «parking space» means for the removal van

In practice, we are not just talking about an empty parking space. We are talking about a spot that allows:

safe stopping/parking without dangerously blocking the road,
door/barrier opening (if any),
easy transportation of objects from/to the entrance,
space for temporary placement of materials (boxes, moving blankets) without obstructing pedestrians.

When you need permission from the municipality and/or consultation with the Traffic Police

There is no one rule that applies everywhere. What is true in practice is that if you need to tie up/occupy part of a carriageway or pavement in order to properly unload, a permit from the municipality and in some cases the consent of the competent traffic police may be required.

Example (Thessaloniki): The Municipality of Thessaloniki has a procedure «Application for temporary occupation of the roadway (loading and unloading)» and states that a positive opinion of the Thessaloniki Traffic Police Directorate is required to issue a permit.

Example (Athens): The Municipality of Athens provides a service for «Temporary permission to occupy public space». For practical reasons, check exactly which service/documents your municipality requires for occupying a roadway/sidewalk on the day of the move.

Conclusion: if you are on a main road, a one-way street, a narrow street with double parking or need to reserve space, start investigating early for authorisation to occupy a roadway for moving house.

Step-by-step: how to secure a parking space on moving day

Check access and «barriers». One-way street, bus stops, bins, bollards, ramps for the disabled, garage entrances.
Coordinate with management/neighborhood. A simple update (time-of-day) reduces the chances of the lot filling up with parked cars.
Set a realistic «window» for loading and unloading. Usually early morning hours help, but avoid rush hour on busy roads.
Estimate the required space. For a medium moving truck, aim for several metres along the road to allow easy access to the loading/unloading area.
If occupancy is needed, start the permit process. Contact the municipality (and where requested, the relevant traffic police) to find out deadlines, supporting documents and any fees.

What information they will usually ask you for

Address (exact location) and date/time.
Duration of occupation (e.g. 1-2 hours for unloading).
Type of work (furniture removal/transfer).
Space estimate (length/width) and any plan/sketch, if requested.
Contact details of the person in charge.

Common mistakes that cost time (and nerves)

You leave it for the last minute. Even if you don't need permission, you need consultation.
You underestimate the difficulty of access. Narrows, double-parking and corners need a plan.
You do not provide for a contingency plan. E.g. second stopping point a few metres away.
You ignore the need for a lift. When the input does not serve, a Lifting machinery may be the solution.

How Prime Transport can help

Prime Movers organises removals and transfers with a focus on practical preparation (access, parking, loading time). Depending on the volume and specifics, we can propose:

Microtransports when it comes to a few bulky objects or a small load.
Forward for direct transport within the city, with a flexible approach.
Furniture assembly to allow large furniture to pass more easily through narrow staircases.
Emptying of premises when items need to be removed before moving.

Useful advice: When requesting a quote, state from the outset floor, elevator, street width and if there is realistic parking space. This makes the assessment more accurate and reduces surprises.

Frequently asked questions

How many days before I need to arrange a parking space for the removal truck?;

Ideally start 7-14 days in advance, especially if you are on a main road or in an area with difficult parking. If there is a possibility that a driveway occupancy permit may be required for a move, start even earlier because procedures vary by municipality.

Do you always need a driveway occupancy permit to move?;

Not always. If stopping/loading can be done legally and safely without taking up space, it is usually not required. But if you need to occupy part of a carriageway/sidewalk or tie up space, the municipality (and in some cases the relevant traffic authority) may require a permit.

What do I do if there is no space in front of the entrance?;

Plan an alternative stopping point a few metres away and ensure a safe transport route to the entrance. If access is difficult (narrow/high floors), consider solutions such as hoists to reduce the transport distance.

How long does it usually take to unload?;

It depends on the volume, the floor, the elevator and the distance to the truck. For a small load, 1-2 hours may be enough, while for a full move the window may be longer. It is important to agree on a realistic schedule in advance.

How do I give correct details to the transport company to organise parking?;

Send address, street photos (2-3 angles), street/sidewalk width, existence of a one-way street or bus stop, and times when it is most feasible to make the stop. This allows the team to recommend the best plan and if a street occupancy permit is needed for a move.

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