Moving big items of furniture is often one of the most daunting tasks when it comes to relocating or rearranging your living space. Whether you’re dealing with a bulky sofa, an oversized dresser, or a king-sized bed, moving these heavy and cumbersome items can be physically taxing and requires careful planning. However, with the right approach, tools, and strategies, you can move large furniture efficiently and safely without unnecessary stress.
Here’s how you can navigate the process smoothly.
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Plan Ahead
Before you begin, take time to plan out the move. Assess the size and weight of the furniture you need to move and the dimensions of the space it will be passing through. Measure doorways, hallways, staircases, and elevators to ensure that the furniture will fit through without getting stuck or causing damage to the walls or floors. Consider removing doors from their hinges if necessary to create extra space.
Sketch a mental (or physical) map of the moving route. Walk the path you plan to take with the furniture and check for any potential obstacles, such as sharp corners, low-hanging light fixtures, or uneven flooring. This allows you to troubleshoot any problems before you even start moving, saving time and frustration during the actual move.
Gather the Right Tools and Materials
Having the right tools on hand can make moving large furniture significantly easier. Depending on the size and type of the furniture, you may need some or all of the following tools:
- Furniture sliders: These are small, flat pieces that can be placed under furniture legs, making it easier to slide heavy items across the floor without causing damage.
- Dollies: Both furniture dollies (flat platforms with wheels) and appliance dollies (upright with handles and straps) are incredibly useful for moving large, heavy furniture. They help distribute the weight evenly and allow you to move items without putting excessive strain on your body.
- Moving straps or shoulder dollies: These tools help to lift heavy items using leverage, reducing the amount of weight you have to physically carry with your arms and back.
- Padding and blankets: To protect your furniture (and your home) from scratches and dings, use padding or moving blankets around the edges of your furniture.
- Ratchet straps or bungee cords: These are useful for securing items during transportation, especially if you’re using a moving truck or trailer.
Hire Professionals if Needed
If moving large furniture seems too overwhelming or if you’re dealing with particularly valuable or delicate items, it might be worth hiring professional movers. Professionals are experienced in handling oversized furniture, and they come equipped with the necessary tools and expertise to move your items safely. Shiply can help you transport furniture to anywhere you need. Though it’s an added expense, the peace of mind and reduced physical strain may be well worth it.
Disassemble When Possible
For many large pieces of furniture, disassembling them before moving can save you a lot of trouble. Beds, tables, and modular sofas are often designed to come apart for easier transport. Carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions to disassemble the furniture and label any hardware or parts to make reassembly easier later.
Keep in mind that it’s not always necessary to fully disassemble a piece of furniture. Sometimes simply removing the legs of a couch or the drawers of a dresser can make the item easier to handle and reduce its overall footprint. Wrap any removed parts separately to prevent them from getting lost or damaged.