Certificate of Insurance (COI) for Moving in NYC
Everything you need to know about COIs — what they are, which buildings require them, and how to get yours free, usually same-day.
What is a COI for moving?
A Certificate of Insurance (COI) is a one-page document from a moving company's insurer that proves the mover carries liability and property-damage coverage. NYC buildings require it before move day so that any damage to elevators, lobbies, or hallways is covered by the mover's insurance — not by you or the building. No approved COI usually means no move: the freight elevator stays locked.
Which NYC buildings require a COI?
Almost always require one
- Doorman & luxury buildings
- Elevator buildings with freight service
- Condos & co-ops (both ends of the move)
- Buildings run by management companies
Often don't require one
- Walk-ups and small rentals
- Single-family houses & brownstones (owner-occupied)
- Some smaller landlord-managed buildings
When in doubt, ask your super or management company — a quick email saves move-day surprises.
How we handle your COI — free
Tell us at booking
Mention your building needs a COI and forward its requirements (your management company has a standard sheet).
We issue it same-day
Our insurer generates the certificate to your building’s exact specifications — no charge, usually the same business day.
Building approves
We send it straight to your management company and confirm approval before move day. You do nothing.
When should you request it?
Request your COI at least 2–3 days before your move. Certificates are usually issued the same business day, but building management can take a day or two to approve it — and without an approved COI, buildings will hold the freight elevator and the move can't start.
COI & NYC Moving Permit FAQs
What is a COI for moving?
A Certificate of Insurance (COI) is a document from a moving company's insurer proving the mover carries liability and property-damage coverage. NYC buildings request it before move day so any damage to lobbies, elevators, or hallways is covered by the mover's insurance — not the building or you.
Do all NYC buildings require a COI?
No, but most doorman buildings, elevator buildings, condos, and co-ops do. Walk-ups and smaller rentals often don't. Ask your building manager or super — and if they require one, ask them to email you their "COI requirements" or a sample certificate, which lists exactly what your mover's insurance must show.
How do I get a COI from Relentless Moving?
Just tell us at booking that your building needs a COI and forward your building's requirements. We send the certificate directly to your building management — free of charge, usually the same business day.
How much does a COI cost?
Nothing with us. Reputable movers issue COIs free of charge — it's generated by the mover's insurance broker. Be cautious of any mover that charges a fee for a standard COI.
How long does it take to get a COI?
Usually the same business day once we have your building's requirements. To be safe, request it at least 2–3 days before your move so building management has time to approve it.
What happens if the movers show up without a COI?
Buildings that require a COI will typically refuse to let the move proceed — the freight elevator stays locked and the crew can't work. That means a rescheduled move and possible fees. Confirm the COI is approved by your building before move day.
Do I need a COI if I'm moving within the same building?
Usually yes. Even for a same-building move (a different floor or unit), management typically still requires a COI because the crew is using the same elevators, hallways, and lobby. We handle same-building moves regularly and provide the COI the same way.
Do I need a moving permit in NYC?
NYC does not have a residential moving-truck permit program the way cities like Boston or Philadelphia do. You generally can't reserve street parking for a moving truck. Instead, experienced movers plan around legal parking, loading zones, and building loading docks — and we handle that planning for you.
Need a COI for your move?
Book your move and we'll handle the entire COI process with your building — free.