Apparatuses and techniques are described for programming a multi-tier block in which sub-blocks are arranged in respective tiers. When a program operation involves the source-side sub-block, the NAND strings are pre-charged from the source line. When a program operation involves the drain-side sub-block, the NAND strings are pre-charged from the bit line. When a program operation involves an interior sub-block, the NAND strings can be pre-charged from the bit line if all sub-blocks on the drain side of the interior sub-block are erased, or from the source line if all sub-blocks on the source side of the interior sub-block are erased. A table can be provided which identifies free blocks, free sub-blocks and a corresponding program order. If such a table is not available, the sub-blocks can be read to determine whether they are programmed.