Warehouse move permits and safety checks might not be the first thing you think of when planning a relocation—but they can be the first thing that stops your move cold if you skip them.
Whether you’re crossing city lines or just moving around the block, a commercial move involves rules: city bylaws, building requirements, union labor access, WCB regulations, and safety compliance.
Miss a step, and your team could be shut down, fined, or worse—put at risk
At BBX Moving, we make sure every detail is covered—from the permits you didn’t know you needed, to the safety requirements you can’t afford to miss. Here’s what every business needs to understand before planning a warehouse move.
1. Permits: More Than Just Paperwork
“We didn’t know we needed permits.” This happens more often than you’d think.
A client secures a new warehouse, books a mover, and starts preparing—only to find out days before that:
- The new building has strict move-in protocols
- The city requires a permit for curb access or truck parking
- A unionized site may have rules around who can move what
We’ll tell you if your move:
- Requires a street use permit (common in Vancouver and Burnaby)
- Needs WCB coverage certificates submitted in advance
- Must follow union labor rules for specific buildings or zones
- Needs insurance and liability forms (COI) filed with strata or landlords
2. Building Requirements and Union Compliance
We thought the building would be ready.” Many warehouses come with unfinished interiors, missing safety signage, or construction zones that make them non-operational on day one.
- Confirming that stairs, elevators, and docks are safe and accessible
- Reviewing flooring, lighting, and safety barriers
- Flagging any hazards or unfinished areas that need to be addressed
If you need to delay or store inventory while your new space gets finalized, we offer short-term storage as a backup.
3. Site Safety Checks and Work Safe BC Standards
“We didn’t have the proper safety plans in place.” Moving a warehouse isn’t just a logistics challenge—it’s a liability risk.
Crews are lifting heavy gear, operating in shared spaces, and moving fast under pressure. Without a clear safety plan, you risk:
- Worker injury
- Property damage
- Violations of WorkSafeBC regulations
BBX Solution:
We’re WCB-covered and insured—and we coordinate directly with your internal safety lead so everyone’s aligned.
Checklist: What You Might Need Before a Warehouse Move
- City street-use permits for trucks or containers
- Freight elevator bookings with building managers
- Proof of insurance (COI) and liability certificates
- Union clearance for high-security or government buildings
- Risk assessments or job hazard analyses
- Coordination with loading dock schedules and contractor rules
Final Word: Permits and Safety Are Part of the Plan
Warehouse move permits and safety checks aren’t extras—they’re the foundation of a successful relocation.
BBX doesn’t just move your gear. We manage your timeline, your paperwork, and your team’s safety from start to finish.
Warehouse Moves That Stay Compliant, Safe, and On Time
Warehouse move permits and safety checks might seem like red tape—but they’re the reason your move can happen without friction.
At BBX Moving, we believe a smooth relocation isn’t just about where things go. It’s about planning what happens before they ever move.
Book your warehouse walkthrough and let us take care of the permits, the safety planning, and the systems—so your business never misses a beat.
