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Moving into a Philadelphia row home can be tricky. The homes are narrow, the stairways are tight, and parking is limited. Without the right preparation, it’s easy for furniture to get scratched or damaged. This guide shares expert advice from FairPrice Movers Philadelphia on how to move safely and efficiently — no surprises, no stress.
What Should You Know Before Moving Into a Philadelphia Row Home?
Before move-in day, take time to measure your new home, confirm truck access, and secure parking permits. These steps can save you hours of frustration and costly furniture damage.
Do You Need to Measure a Row Home Before Moving In?
Yes — measuring is essential. Most row homes in Philadelphia are between 14 and 16 feet wide, and some are even narrower. Measuring your doorways, stairwells, and hallway turns helps you avoid getting stuck halfway up the stairs with a sofa.
Here’s what to measure:
- The height, width, and depth of each furniture piece.
- Front and back door dimensions.
- Stair landings and hallway widths.
- Window openings if you plan to lift furniture through.
Pro tip: Bring your tape measure when shopping for new furniture to ensure it fits before moving day.
Do You Need Truck or Parking Permits for a Row Home Move?
Usually, yes. If a moving truck will block traffic or take up street parking, you’ll need a Temporary No Parking Permit from the Philadelphia Streets Department.
- Cost: $50 in Center City or University City; $25 in most other neighborhoods.
- Coverage: About 40 feet of space (roughly two parking spots).
- Duration: Typically valid for one day.
How to plan ahead:
- Apply online at the Philadelphia Streets Department page.
- Tell your movers where the truck will park.
- Secure your space early, especially in tight areas like Fishtown or South Philly.
How to Choose Movers Experienced with Philadelphia Row Homes
Choosing the right Philadelphia movers makes all the difference. Ask companies if they’ve handled row home moves before — experience matters.
Questions to ask:
- Have you moved large furniture up narrow stairs before?
- Do you use moving pads, straps, and sliders?
- Will you disassemble and reassemble furniture?
FairPrice Movers brings all the necessary tools and provides full-service disassembly and reassembly when needed.
How to Move Large Furniture into a Row Home
Most furniture can be disassembled. Beds, tables, and shelving units often come apart with simple tools.
Tips:
- Tape a labeled bag of screws and bolts to each furniture piece.
- Remove legs, cushions, and fragile glass panels.
- Wrap wooden furniture and glass in thick blankets.
If your couch or bed won’t fit through the stairwell, you can consider window hoisting, a common solution in Philadelphia row homes.
For window moves:
- Choose a calm, dry day.
- Use professional-grade straps or a small lift.
- Place padding below in case of slips.
- Hire professional movers — never attempt this alone.
What Equipment Protects Furniture in Row Home Moves?
The right equipment keeps your home and furniture safe:
- Sliders: Place under furniture legs to prevent scratches.
- Moving pads and blankets: Protect wood and fabric surfaces.
- Lifting straps: Help carry heavy items through tight spaces.
- Floor runners and cardboard: Shield old hardwood floors and walls.
Bonus tip: Wrap stair railings and corners with towels or blankets to prevent scuffs, and place plywood over fragile front steps.
What If Your Furniture Doesn’t Fit Inside?
Even with good planning, sometimes large furniture just won’t fit.
Here’s what to do:
- Re-measure all access points — front, back, or basement doors.
- Disassemble items further if possible.
- Ask FairPrice Movers Philadelphia for creative options — they’ve moved countless row home setups.
- Rent a small storage unit nearby or sell furniture that’s too large.
Storage near Port Richmond, Northern Liberties, or Kensington typically costs $70–$120/month for a 5×10 unit.
Final Tips for Moving Into a Philadelphia Row Home
Start by moving smaller items and boxes first to clear a path for big furniture. Move clothing, kitchen supplies, and lamps early in the day so movers have space to maneuver.
Also, learn the quirks of your neighborhood:
- Fishtown: Tight parking and one-way streets.
- South Philly: Narrow front steps and no alleys.
- Graduate Hospital: Busy residential streets and limited parking.
Knowing your area’s layout helps movers plan better routes and saves time.
FAQ
1. Do I always need a parking permit for a moving truck in Philadelphia?
Yes, if the truck blocks the street or sidewalk. Fees are higher in Center City and University City.
2. Can a couch fit up row home stairs?
It depends on the width of the stairs and the furniture. Measure carefully and consider partial disassembly or a window lift.
3. Are local movers better for row homes?
Yes. Local movers like FairPrice Movers know the challenges of Philadelphia’s row homes, tight staircases, and parking rules.
4. Is moving furniture through a window safe?
Only if done by professionals. Always use straps, padding, and proper equipment.
5. What if my old furniture won’t fit?
Store or sell it. Many new furniture lines are designed for narrow homes — an easy fix for city living.
Call the Row Home Moving Experts in Philadelphia
Moving into a Philadelphia row home doesn’t have to be stressful. FairPrice Movers Philadelphia specializes in navigating narrow hallways, steep stairs, and parking restrictions — all with care and precision.
Call (267) 692-2292 or request your free quote today
