Quick answer: In most Singapore condos, you must inform the MCST, book the service lift, place a refundable deposit, and submit contractor/vehicle permits before your movers can start. Weekend and public-holiday moves are commonly restricted.
Why this guide?
If you’re moving into or out of a Singapore condominium, the rules can feel like a maze—different MCSTs, different forms, different timelines. This guide breaks down how MCST lift booking, deposits and permits typically work, so you avoid last-minute surprises, forfeited deposits, and unhappy neighbours.
Xpress Movers & Logistics has helped thousands of households move across the island since 2007. Our promise: “Your Satisfaction is Our Concern.”
At-a-Glance Summary
- Tell MCST early (7–14 days ahead is common) and ask for the moving/renovation handbook and forms.
- Book the service lift and loading bay (if any). Expect protective padding and floor protection.
- Pay a refundable deposit (often S$100–S$500; varies by condo) and, sometimes, a non-refundable admin fee.
- Submit permits: contractor/mover details, workers’ NRIC/Work Pass copies, vehicle numbers, and timing.
- Know the hours: weekday moves are standard; weekends/PH may be restricted or disallowed.
- Big items & noise: bulky or noisy works may be time-restricted; check for escort or padding requirements.
MCST Basics: Who sets the rules?
MCST (Management Corporation Strata Title) manages the condo’s shared property and house rules. Each development has its own moving policy, forms and fees. Always request the latest:
- Moving/renovation handbook (PDF)
- Lift booking form
- Contractor/vehicle permit form
- Payment instructions (bank transfer, cheque or online portal)
Tip: Clarify whether the deposit is unit-specific (kept on file for multiple bookings) or per-day.
Lift Booking: What to expect
Service lifts are limited resources and often shared with deliveries and renovations. Typical requirements:
- Advance booking: 7–14 days ahead is common. Peak seasons (year-end, school holidays) fill up fast.
- Time slots: 2–4 hour blocks; some MCSTs allow a full day with a buffer between jobs.
- Protection: MCST may require lift padding, corner guards and floor protection in lift lobby/common corridors.
- Escort/Access: Security issues temporary passes for movers; some sites require a maintenance escort to affix padding.
- Loading bay & clearance: Height restrictions for carparks and loading decks (common limits: 2.1–2.4 m). Share your mover’s truck height.
- Multiple trips: Clarify whether the same booking covers shuttles between blocks/towers.
Pro move: Ask your mover to measure furniture & access (lift car dimensions, corridor turns, staircase width) to avoid on-day surprises.
Deposits & Fees: How much and why
Most condos collect a refundable deposit to cover potential damage to common property.
- Refundable Deposit: Often S$100–S$500, but premium/luxury developments may request more.
- Admin/Processing Fee: Some MCSTs charge a small non-refundable fee for lift padding, security processing or cleaning.
- Payment Mode: Bank transfer or cheque to the MCST managing agent. Keep the payment proof handy.
- Forfeiture: Deposits may be partially/fully forfeited for unprotected works, overruns, unapproved hours, or damage.
Ask for a receipt and document the lift/common areas before & after with time-stamped photos.
Permits & Security
Depending on the condo, you’ll likely need:
1) Contractor/Movers Permit
- Company name, UEN, contact, and licence (if any)
- Vehicle details: plate number(s), truck height/length
- Workers list with NRIC/Work Pass numbers
2) Work Schedule
- Move date(s), start/end time
- Unit number(s) and blocks
3) Indemnity/Undertaking Form
- Confirmation you’ll follow house rules and bear costs for any damage
Good to know: If your building uses a visitor management system, pre-register your team and vehicles to avoid gate delays.
Moving Hours & Blackout Dates
- Weekdays (Mon–Fri): Usually allowed during office hours (e.g., 9am–5pm/6pm).
- Saturdays: Many condos allow half-day (e.g., till 1pm/2pm).
- Sundays & Public Holidays: Frequently not allowed.
- Quiet Hours: Some MCSTs impose mid-day or evening quiet periods—check your handbook.
- Overruns: Late finishes may trigger penalties or the need to re-book another day.
Neighbourly tip: Reserve visitor lifts for residents where possible and keep corridors clear.
Bulky Items, Noise & Protection
- Bulky/Heavy items (pianos, safes, stone tables) may require extra manpower or stair-carry approval if oversize for lift.
- Noise control: Power tools, dismantling built-ins, drilling and cutting are often time-restricted.
- Protection: Expect requirements for mattress bags, shrink-wrap for wardrobes, and floor runners inside the unit.
- Common area care: MCST can insist on corridor corner guards and lift padding before any movement begins.
Piano & art moves: Ask about our Luxury Moving service—custom crating, art handling and climate-aware transport.
FAQs
1) Can I move on weekends or public holidays?
Often no for Sundays/PH; some condos allow Saturday half-days. Always check your MCST.
2) Is the deposit refundable?
Yes, if there’s no damage and rules/timings are followed. Processing times differ—keep your receipt and follow up.
3) I’m moving from HDB to a condo—anything different?
HDB blocks don’t usually require MCST forms, but condos do. Expect lift booking, deposit, permits and tighter hours.
4) What if my sofa doesn’t fit in the lift?
Tell us early. We’ll assess stair carries, balcony craning, or dismantling—subject to MCST approval.
5) Will my deposit be forfeited if I overrun?
Late finishes can risk penalties or forfeiture. If delays happen (e.g., weather), inform security before your slot ends.
6) What if my condo needs lift padding but doesn’t provide it?
We can supply and install protection as part of the move; let us coordinate with your MCST.
Ready to move?
Choose a mover that knows Singapore condo protocols inside-out.
Xpress Movers & Logistics Pte Ltd
22 Sin Ming Lane #06-76, Midview City, Singapore 573969
Tel/WhatsApp: +65 8289 3592
Email: sales@xpressmovers.com.sg
Website: www.xpressmovers.com.sg
Hours: Mon–Sat, 9am–6pm
Core services: Residential & commercial moves, luxury moving, storage, disposal, contract delivery, courier service.
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