URBIN Help Center
Everything you need to know about your URBIN experience. Find clear answers to common questions regarding booking, urban logistics, and our facilities.
What do you need help with?
Choose a category below to browse frequently asked questions tailored to your specific needs.
general
URBIN Smart Moving is your on-demand moving and delivery solution. We offer moving, NYC storage pickup, and delivery services - ready to deploy within the hour or scheduled up to a month in advance.
Whether you're moving across the city, need help bringing home furniture you just bought, or just want a few items shifted, we can help. It's fast, flexible, and smart - just like moving should be.
Currently, URBIN's Smart Moving service is an all-inclusive package that provides both our professional crew and a dedicated vehicle. We do not offer labor-only services at this time.
URBIN currently operates in the greater New York City area and Florida. For a comprehensive list of service areas, please visit our locations page: https://urbinstorage.com/locations
URBIN combines an unparalleled understanding of complex urban layouts with elite logistical technology. Our strict commitment to punctuality, highly trained crews, and 5-star professional service guarantees a sophisticated and stress-free moving experience.
Whether you're transitioning from Manhattan to Queens or from Staten Island to Brooklyn, URBIN is your trusted partner for all local moves within New York.
Yes, URBIN specializes in commercial relocations. From office essentials to specialized equipment, we ensure a hassle-free move for your business.
Yes, URBIN offers comprehensive smart storage services in NYC for both short-term and long-term needs, ensuring your items are packed, transported, and stored with utmost care.
At URBIN, we believe moving should be a celebration, not a chore. Our dedicated team ensures that your relocation journey is smooth, allowing you to focus on the excitement of your new chapter.
URBIN stays ahead of the curve by utilizing cutting-edge technology, including advanced scanning tools and real-time tracking systems, ensuring a seamless move.
Yes. URBIN operates with all necessary licenses and insurance, ensuring we meet and exceed industry standards and regulations.
URBIN offers on-demand moving services seven days a week, typically between 8 AM and 8 PM, ensuring flexibility and convenience for our customers.
Yes, URBIN provides specialized services for events and unique moving or logistical requirements. Whether it's a corporate event, a trade show presentation, or a special occasion, we've got you covered.
URBIN understands that not all moves are large-scale. For those moving just a few items or from a studio or dorm room with minimal furniture, our dedicated small move service ensures a fast and hassle-free experience.
Pricing
No, there is no minimum time requirement. URBIN operates on a transparent, pay-per-minute billing structure. Your billing begins precisely when the crew arrives at the pickup location and concludes when they leave the drop-off location (travel time is calculated separately).
Payment is collected after your move is complete. We accept all major credit and debit cards. Your card will be authorized for an estimated amount shortly before the move, and the final total will be charged after services are rendered.
Your quote includes a base fee, a travel fee and a labor fee. Additional charges may apply for extra stops, heavy items requiring special equipment, disposal of unwanted items or other additional services.
From time to time, URBIN offers promotions or referral credits. If you have a promo code, you can enter it during booking. Referral programs will be announced via email or on our website when available.
For safety and liability reasons, customers are not permitted to assist the crew with lifting or carrying items. Therefore, we do not offer discounts for physical assistance.
The total price of an URBIN moving service is made up of a few components:
- Base fee: This is a fixed cost that depends on the vehicle size you select, as larger vehicles entail more operational work. It covers essential operational costs, administrative duties, and credit-card processing.
- Travel fee: This covers the cost of getting the truck and crew to your locations. It is calculated per mile, with the rate depending on your selected vehicle size because maintenance costs vary by vehicle.
- Labor fee: Labor is billed by time, calculated per minute at a rate that varies depending on your selected vehicle size. The labor clock starts when your movers arrive at the pickup address and ends once they've unloaded everything at the destination and you confirm completion.
- Additional services: Extra stops, unusually heavy or oversized items, disposal of unwanted goods, extended travel outside our standard service area, or other additional services may incur an additional charge.
Because every move is unique, your online booking will provide an upfront estimate based on your selected vehicle and distance. Your final total is then accurately calculated after the move is completed based on the actual time worked and any additional services. Please contact our support team if you need detailed pricing help.
URBIN's labor fee includes everything related to the crew's time and physical effort during your service. Here's what's typically covered:
- Loading and unloading your items.
- Carrying items to/from your location (stairs, elevators, etc.).
- Basic disassembly/reassembly of furniture (on request).
- Unpacking and organizing (if requested).
- Protective handling of items during the move.
- Time on-site at both pickup and drop-off locations.
You're billed by the minute, starting when the crew arrives and ending when they leave the drop-off site. No minimum time required. If you have specific needs (like complex furniture setup or special item handling), it's best to mention it during booking to ensure it's covered.
At URBIN, absolute transparency is central to our service. Your initial quote clearly itemizes your pricing structure upfront, showing the fixed base fee, the per-mile travel rate, and the per-minute labor rate for your selected vehicle. While your final total is determined by the actual time spent completing your move and any additional services utilized, our precise upfront breakdown ensures you understand exactly how your costs are calculated from the very beginning - with absolutely zero hidden fees.
To ensure absolute transparency and provide the best value for your specific needs, URBIN offers two pricing models tailored to the size and complexity of your relocation:
- Pay-As-You-Go (Standard Moves). For the majority of our relocations, we operate on a modern, pay-as-you-go pricing model. Your upfront quote clearly establishes the exact rates for your specific move based on your selected vehicle - including your fixed base fee, per-mile travel rate, and per-minute labor rate. Much like a taxi meter, the labor clock only runs while our crew is actively executing your move. Your final cost is calculated at the end of the appointment based on the exact minutes worked, your travel distance, your base fee, and any additional services utilized.
- Custom Flat-Rate (Large-Scale Moves). For large-scale relocations - such as multi-bedroom homes, large offices, or highly complex moves - we offer a custom flat-rate option. This provides a guaranteed, all-inclusive price for the entire project. If you are planning a large move and prefer a fixed price, please contact our customer service team to discuss your details and receive a customized flat-rate quote.
URBIN accepts payments via credit or debit cards through our secure online portal. We also welcome certified checks and cash payments.
Payment terms at URBIN depend on the size and specific pricing model of your relocation:
- Standard Moves: For standard moves, we do not require any upfront deposits or prepayments to secure your reservation. Your payment is strictly due upon the completion of your moving appointment. A brief authorization hold will be placed on your registered card shortly before the move, and your final total will be calculated and charged only after all services are successfully rendered.
- Large-Scale Moves: For large relocations, we ask for a 25% deposit through our online payment system to secure your moving date. This amount is automatically deducted from your total moving expenses. The outstanding balance must then be settled three business days prior to your reserved moving date.
Flights of stairs may incur additional fees, which are determined based on the scale of the move.
Yes. You will receive a refund if you notify your dedicated move coordinator or our customer support team of any inventory changes before pickup is complete.
That's perfectly fine. Please contact our customer support team so we can update your quote. Let us know about any significant last-minute additions before your moving team arrives so we can adjust the schedule and vehicle size if needed.
The tip is 100% at the customer's discretion. In NYC for local moving services, it's customary in the industry to consider a tip ranging from 10-20% of your move's total cost. For long-distance relocations, a recommended tip is between 5-8%, divided between the pickup and delivery teams.
account
You can access your URBIN account by following these steps:
Step 2: Enter your registered email address and password, then click the Login button.
Note: If you are an URBIN Partner, please use the provided Partner Login. If your account was created prior to September 28, 2023, please use the Old Account Login.
To modify your basic details, such as your name, phone number, email or password:
Step 1: Log in to your URBIN account and navigate to the Account section.
Step 2: Click the pencil icon next to the specific information you wish to update.
Step 3: Enter your new details and click Save to apply the changes.
Step 1: Log in to your URBIN account and navigate to the Account section.
Step 2: Select the Cards section.
Step 3: Click the Add Card button.
Step 4: Enter your new payment information and click Add card to save your details securely.
Your URBIN account provides a comprehensive suite of tools to fully manage your digital inventory, storages, and logistics:
- Account Management: Access your profile to easily update your personal information, manage payment methods, and edit your saved addresses.
- Managing Storages: Create new storages, edit your existing ones, and seamlessly add items to your reserved space directly from your Home dashboard or from the My Storages tab.
- Viewing Your Items: Click the Items tab in the left-hand navigation menu to view your complete digital inventory. From here, you can track the current location of every item, see exactly which storage it belongs to, and check its latest appointment status. By clicking the three-dot menu next to any item, you can also upload custom photos and add personalized notes or searchable tags.
- Booking Appointments: Schedule a new pickup, delivery, or move directly from your Home dashboard or the Appointments tab. You also have the flexibility to manage your scheduled appointments and see the details and status of each one directly from this section.
You can review your complete billing history, subscriptions, and invoices directly from your account by navigating to Billing in the left-hand navigation menu. From there, you can explore three dedicated tabs:
Subscriptions Tab: Displays a list of all your active storage subscriptions. Click the eye icon next to any specific subscription line to open a detailed view, which includes your current billing period, upcoming invoice, and past invoices associated with that storage.
Appointment Payments Tab: Switch to this tab to view a complete history of all payments related specifically to your appointments.
Invoices Tab: Select this tab to access a comprehensive list of all generated invoices across your entire account.
items
Yes. URBIN offers help with unpacking and organizing your items. When you book a service, just let the team know that you'd like assistance with unpacking and organizing, and the crew can help you:
- Unpack boxes or bins.
- Place items exactly where you want them.
- Set up basic furniture or shelving if needed.
- Organize belongings by category, room, or your preferences.
If you're booking online or through a representative, simply mention 'unpacking + organizing' so we can schedule enough time and the right number of crew members.
The crews can move many large household items; however, extremely heavy or specialty pieces (e.g., pianos, safes, commercial appliances) may require special equipment or third-party movers. Please let us know about such items during booking so we can confirm if we can accommodate them.
Our crews can disassemble and reassemble basic furniture such as bed frames and tables upon request. We do not mount or unmount televisions or disconnect gas or water lines. Please ensure appliances are disconnected before we arrive.
Our standard moves include up to one box truck (or equivalent volume) and typical household furniture. Individual items over 300 pounds or exceeding standard elevator/stair capacities may require special handling or refusal. Please inform us of unusually heavy items when booking.
Yes - URBIN's crew can help with item disposal upon request. If you have things you want to get rid of (like old furniture, boxes, or general junk), the team can:
- Remove and dispose of unwanted items.
- Coordinate donation drop-offs (if items are eligible).
- Recycle materials when possible.
Just make sure to mention disposal during booking, so the right plan and any potential fees can be confirmed ahead of time. Some items (like electronics, mattresses, or hazardous materials) may have specific rules or surcharges.
URBIN can transport whatever safely fits into your selected truck or van. Please ensure your inventory aligns with the capacity of your chosen vehicle. If your belongings exceed this space, please contact our support team to request an additional vehicle for the remaining volume.
Our expert teams offer specialized "white-glove" packing services. From delicate electronics and glassware to cherished artworks, we ensure every item is securely packed for transit. We also offer comprehensive unpacking services at your destination.
Your belongings' safety is our priority. URBIN uses protective measures such as heavy-duty wrapping materials, protective pads, and professional equipment. We also protect your property by using specialized floor protectors, corner guards, and wall protectors to help prevent damage during the move.
Yes. URBIN offers specialized packing for items like smart TVs, computers, electronics, lamps, paintings, small art sculptures, and more. We ensure each item is packed securely using high-quality materials.
Yes, URBIN promotes sustainable moving practices. We offer eco-friendly plastic moving bins that are cleaned and sanitized after each use, ensuring a green and efficient moving experience.
URBIN understands the value and sentiment attached to such items. Our team has specialized skills and equipment to safely move pianos, artwork, and other valuable possessions, ensuring they reach their destination in pristine condition.
As mandated by the Department of Transportation, URBIN automatically provides the basic coverage for your items at a rate of $0.60 per pound for each article. For additional coverage, you have the option to contact and add a third-party insurer.
Unfortunately, we do not handle the transportation of high-value items such as jewelry, precious metals, personal financial records, vehicle keys, insurance documents, cash, prescribed medications, identification documents or other important documents. It's crucial to ensure these items aren't packed in the boxes without informing us, as we won't be liable for them. We strongly recommend securely storing these items during the moving process and personally transporting them to your new location.
For local moves, we're happy to help. However, for long-distance moves, agricultural state regulations prevent us from transporting plants.
URBIN does not transport pets, firearms, drugs, chemicals, plants, or any other illegal items as defined by law. Additionally, we do not transport high-value or irreplaceable personal items - such as jewelry, cash, prescribed medications, and important personal documents - and strongly recommend that you transport these securely yourself.
We're sorry that some of your items were damaged during the move. Please contact our customer support team at (212) 390-5454 or support@urbinstorage.com so we can help address the issue.
We ask customers to remove AC or TV units before the move or arrange professional uninstallation. If you need help with a TV, URBIN offers a dedicated dismounting and setup service. Contact your dedicated move coordinator for details.
Upon arrival, the moving team supervisor will conduct a thorough walkthrough of your space with you. Before loading begins, you can identify which items should be relocated, which should remain untouched, and share any special handling instructions.
Yes. As part of our moving service, the crew can help with the initial placement and arrangement of items in your new space. Let the team know where you would like each item placed before the move is complete.
For long-distance moves, state regulations prohibit packing food. For local moves, food and liquids can be packed, but we recommend preparing them last.
PBO stands for "Packed By Owner." This moving-industry term indicates that a box or container was packed by the customer rather than by professional packers. The distinction may affect liability because moving companies may not be responsible for the contents of boxes they did not pack.
Yes. To minimize the risk of damage, please empty all dresser, closet, and file cabinet drawers before the move.
Plastic bags may seem convenient, but they are not the most reliable choice for moving. We can handle items packed in sturdy duffel bags, but we recommend more durable options, such as boxes or plastic moving bins, to help keep your items secure during the move.
Yes. URBIN offers a range of packing boxes and materials for purchase. Coordinate with your dedicated moving consultant to choose the right supplies. Available options include small, medium, and large boxes, TV boxes, and wardrobe boxes. For delicate items such as china, we can also provide bubble wrap, packing paper, tape, and other materials.
Yes. Pianos require specialized handling because of their size, weight, and value. URBIN's moving team is trained to move different types of pianos, from uprights to grands, using the appropriate equipment and techniques to help ensure safe transport.
appointment
For safety and efficiency, URBIN always assigns at least a two-person crew to moving jobs. This ensures heavy items can be moved safely and your move runs on schedule. We do not offer single-mover bookings at this time.
URBIN can provide a COI to satisfy building or landlord requirements. Please email us at support@urbinstorage.com with your building's insurance requirements and move date at least three business days before your appointment.
Yes. You can book several moving appointments in advance using our online booking tool or by contacting customer support. Each move will receive its own confirmation and reference number.
Multiple stops can often be accommodated. Please contact us before booking or as soon as your plans change so we can adjust the schedule and provide an updated estimate.
We strongly recommend that you or an authorized representative be present at both locations to ensure access and to verify that all items are loaded and unloaded correctly. If neither you nor a representative can be present, please contact support to discuss arrangements.
It is the customer's responsibility to secure any parking permits, loading dock access or elevator reservations required by your building or municipality. Please arrange these details in advance and inform your crew of any restrictions.
URBIN crews come prepared with the essential equipment to handle your move smoothly and safely. Here's what they typically bring:
- Dollies (for heavy or bulky items).
- Hand trucks.
- Moving blankets & pads.
- Straps & bungee cords.
- Basic tools (for disassembly/reassembly).
Once your booking is confirmed, you'll get a notification with the crew details. From there:
- In-App or Online Dashboard: You'll see your mover's name and contact info once they're assigned. Use the chat or call feature to reach out directly.
- Email & SMS Updates: You'll receive updates with links to track and contact your movers as your scheduled time approaches.
Need help right away? Contact URBIN's customer support and they'll connect you with your moving crew or help with any updates.
URBIN offers expedited, last-minute moving services to accommodate urgent relocations. We also provide emergency packing and storage solutions to meet your immediate needs 7 days a week. Whenever you require rapid logistical support, our teams are on standby and ready to deploy.
It's advisable to reach out to us 1 to 4 weeks before your intended move date, depending on the size of your move. That being said, URBIN is fully committed to accommodating last-minute requests as well.
If you need to cancel or reschedule your move, please inform us at least 72 hours (3 days) before your scheduled appointment. There are no penalties for cancellations or changes made outside of this window. However, because our crews and trucks are reserved specifically for you, any cancellations or rescheduling requests made within 72 hours of the move may be subject to a late-notice cancellation fee.
Upon confirming your reservation with us, URBIN will promptly generate and dispatch your Certificate of Insurance. Our dedicated moving consultants will guide you seamlessly through this procedure. Both you and your building's management will receive the COI as an email attachment for convenience.
URBIN boasts a diverse range of vehicles to cater to different moving or logistics needs. Our fleet includes vans, 16ft trucks, 18ft trucks, 20ft trucks, 22ft trucks, and 26ft trucks. We also have refrigerated trucks for special events. You can select the vehicle size that best matches your space when booking online. If you are unsure which option is right for you, you can select the "Help me pick" option or contact our support team for assistance.
If you encounter any problems during your move, contact your dedicated move coordinator or our customer support team. For immediate assistance or last-minute changes on moving day, call (212) 390-5454.
No. You are not responsible for parking tickets incurred by our team during your move. Our crews are experienced in navigating NYC parking and handling these situations.
Typically, our relocation team does not schedule lunch breaks during a move. However, the crew may take occasional breaks during relocations lasting 4 hours or more. If a break is needed, the supervisor will keep you informed. Because labor is billed by the minute, break time will be deducted from the total moving time and will not appear on your final bill.
The number of movers assigned to your appointment is determined by the vehicle size you select during booking. Our standard crew allocations are:
- Cargo Van (Extended) - 15ft: 2 movers
- Mid Size Truck - 18ft: 2 movers
- Full Size Truck - 26ft: 3 movers
If your specific relocation requires a different crew size, please contact our customer service team to adjust your reservation.
You or a designated representative must be present at the start of the move to review the details with the team leader. We recommend remaining on-site throughout the move so the crew can follow your preferences and address any questions before completion.
No, you have the option to entrust the movers with the entire process. If the storage is managed by a third party, we do mandate that either you or a designated representative be present during the drop-off.
Yes. On the day of your move, you will receive a text message or phone call confirming the timing. The moving crew will also contact you 15-30 minutes before arrival. After the move is complete and before the crew leaves, our customer success team will call you.
Yes. You can designate someone to oversee the delivery. Please share their name and contact information with us in advance.
URBIN offers two delivery options: consolidated and exclusive delivery.
- Consolidated Delivery: By choosing the consolidated option, your belongings will be grouped with other customers' belongings and separated by dividers in a 53-foot tractor-trailer for nationwide transport. The delivery windows for this option range from 1-25 business days, depending on the delivery location.
- Exclusive Delivery: By choosing the exclusive option, your items will be ready to go as soon as our team finishes the pickup stage of the move. This allows you to get an accurate estimated delivery time so you can plan and schedule according to your needs.
URBIN prioritizes punctuality and works to meet every committed delivery window. However, traffic, weather, or delays from earlier appointments can sometimes affect timing. If we expect to miss your delivery window, our dispatch team will contact you promptly with updates and explain the reason for the delay.
A "delivery window" is the estimated timeframe in which your belongings are expected to arrive. It is based on the first date you are available to receive your items at the delivery location and helps you plan for their arrival.
For your safety and in strict compliance with our commercial insurance regulations, clients are not permitted to travel inside URBIN moving vehicles. We kindly ask that you arrange independent transportation to your destination.
URBIN's crews work to complete your move as efficiently as possible. Unless your building or community has restrictions, such as designated moving hours or noise ordinances, the crew will continue working until the move is complete.
Move-out times vary depending on the size and complexity of the move. A studio apartment generally takes less time than a multi-bedroom home. The amount of furniture, accessibility, and distance between locations can also affect timing. Your dedicated URBIN moving consultant will review your move details and provide an estimate based on your specific needs.
Still Have Questions?
Our customer success team is here to provide personalized assistance. Reach out to us directly through your preferred channel:
Call or Text: (212) 390-5454
Email: support@urbinstorage.com