Big move to Greece: plan, organisation and safe transport

A big move is not just «more boxes». It usually means more rooms, bulky furniture, special items (e.g. antiques/piano), difficult access (floors, narrow streets) and greater risk of damage or delays. With proper planning, the process becomes predictable and safe.

What is a «big move» and when it becomes complex

In practice, a move is considered «big» when:

• There is a large volume of building (many rooms, storerooms, attics).
• There are heavy/special items (piano, safe, large sofas, marble surfaces).
• Access is limited (narrow staircase, small lift, difficult parking).
• There is time pressure (property delivery, contract, renovation).
• There are transfers to another city or island (coordination of routes/shipping).

The more of the above applies, the more «complex» the move becomes and the more it is worth treating as a project with a clear plan.

Start with an autopsy and a realistic timetable

In order for a big move to «come off» without stress, you need insight into the volume and difficulties:

• List of objects per room (and separately: fragile, heavy, high value).
• Measurements for bulky items (sofas, wardrobes, refrigerators) and check if they pass through doors/stairs.
• Decision on services: packing, disassembly/assembly, lifting, emptying spaces.
• 7-14 days schedule (or more during peak periods/long distance).

Access, parking and permits: the «hidden» point that is holding things up

In Greece, especially in city centres, access determines speed and safety. Check early:

• Truck parking: if there is a legal space near the entrance.
• Use of lifting equipment: if there is a suitable mounting point and a safe «line» to a balcony/window.
• Common area: in some cases a procedure/permission from the municipality is required (e.g. occupation of public space for vehicle/work).
• Understanding with management: timetables, lift use, lift/elevator protection.

Packaging for bulky, fragile and high value

In a big move, proper packing is the «safety» before the security:

• Furniture: protective covers, stretch film, corner/edge reinforcements.
• Glassware/sharps: double cartons where needed, fill in blanks, clear marking «WASHINGTON».
• Online: disconnection with photos, cables in bags, if possible the original boxes.
• Piano/antiques/artworks: special materials and stabilization to avoid vibrations and «play» in transport.

Organisation by room: boxes that «work» for you

Organization is what separates a simple move from a large move with control.

• Coding per room (e.g. BOX-01, BOX-02) and list of contents in each box.
• Weight: heavy boxes break easily and tire the crew - keep them small.
• «First day cutaway»: medicines, chargers, basic cleaning items, 1-2 sets of clothes, documents.

Moving to another city or island: what changes

When the move is not «in-town», the project needs another layer:

• Time limits for loading/routing/unloading (and possible overnight stay).
• Maritime coordination if there is an island, with a realistic buffer for delays.
• Intermediate storage if the new space is not ready (e.g. renovation, cleaning).

What drives up the cost of a big move (and how to control it)

Costs do not go up «by accident». It usually comes from:

• Volume/weight of the building.
• Floors and access (no elevator, difficult parking).
• Hoist, special items, disassembly/assembly.
• Long distance or island.

To check, ask for a clear written quote with what's included, and avoid «open» charges without a description.

After the move: check and change of address

• Make a quick check on furniture/appliances and note any damage immediately.
• Organize documents and accounts (electricity/water/internet) to update data.
• If necessary, proceed to updating register data (e.g. home address).