If you're moving into or out of a managed apartment or condo building in the Chicago area, you may run into a requirement for a Certificate of Insurance, or COI, from whoever is physically moving your furniture. Here's what that is and when it's actually relevant.
What a Certificate of Insurance Is
A COI is a one-page document from an insurance provider showing that a company — typically a moving company — carries active liability coverage, usually with specific coverage limits the building requires. Building management uses it to confirm anyone working in the building is insured against damage to common areas, elevators, or hallways during the move.
When It Applies
COI requirements are specific to companies physically moving furniture and heavy items in and out of a building, especially ones reserving a freight elevator or loading dock. Building management typically wants the COI on file several business days before the move, often as part of reserving that elevator or dock time.
Where Nice Totes Fits In
Nice Totes delivers and picks up totes at the nearest accessible outside point — a driveway, garage, or first floor of a building — and doesn't enter units or handle furniture. If your building has a COI requirement, it's most likely relevant to a moving company you're hiring for furniture, not to tote delivery itself. If you have a question about your specific building's requirements, email us at info@nicetotesrental.com.
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View Residential PricingFrequently Asked Questions
Does Nice Totes need to provide a Certificate of Insurance to my building?
It depends on your building's specific policy. Since Nice Totes delivers to the nearest accessible outside point and doesn't enter units, COI requirements typically apply to movers handling furniture instead — but check with your building management if you're unsure, or email us with questions about your specific address.
Who usually needs a COI when moving in Chicago?
Typically, professional moving companies physically carrying furniture and boxes into a managed building, especially ones reserving a freight elevator or loading dock.
How far ahead should I sort out a COI requirement?
Several business days before your move, since many buildings require the COI on file before they'll reserve elevator or loading dock time.
The Short Version
A COI proves a company's liability insurance to building management, and it's generally a furniture-mover requirement rather than something that applies to tote delivery. Check with your building, or ask us directly if you're unsure how it applies to your specific move.
See Moving Tote Rental: Your Most Common Questions, Answered for more booking basics, or the FAQ page for our full delivery policy.