Large Furniture Items That Need Extra Care When Moving
Moving can be an exhausting process, but it's particularly challenging when large, bulky furniture items are involved. Whether you're relocating to a new home or rearranging rooms, handling large furniture pieces demands extra care to avoid damage to the furniture, the surroundings, and yourself.
Below are some of the key furniture items that require special attention during the moving process.
Sofas and Sectionals
Sofas, especially large sectionals, are among the most difficult pieces to move. Their size and irregular shape make them hard to fit through doorways and stairwells. Sofas can have delicate fabrics or leather coverings that are easily torn, scratched, or stained.
To protect these pieces, remove cushions and wrap the frame in moving blankets or plastic wrap. When moving sectionals, disassemble them if possible to make them more manageable. Take measurements of doorways and hallways beforehand to ensure the sofa can be manoeuvred without damage.
Beds and Mattresses
Beds are another tricky item, especially if they have heavy wooden or metal frames. King-size or queen-size beds often need to be dismantled into smaller parts, like headboards, footboards, and slats. Disassembling the bed frame not only makes the move easier but also minimizes the risk of scratching or damaging walls and floors.
Mattresses, though lighter, can be cumbersome due to their size and flexibility. Using mattress bags can prevent dirt and tears during transport, while straps and dolly carts can make moving large mattresses more efficient. You can hire professionals to help with moving your bed.
Dining Tables
Dining tables come in various sizes and materials, but larger wooden tables can be particularly challenging to move. Many tables feature intricate designs or have glass tops that are vulnerable to scratches, chips, or cracks. If possible, disassemble the table legs and pack them separately. For glass-top tables, wrap the glass in moving blankets or bubble wrap and store it upright in a crate or special moving box to avoid breaking. Even if your table cannot be disassembled, padding and proper lifting techniques are crucial to prevent damage to the table and surrounding areas.
Dressers and Wardrobes
Large dressers and wardrobes are not only bulky but are also incredibly heavy, especially when filled with clothing or household items. Before moving these pieces, it is essential to empty all drawers to reduce weight and prevent items from shifting inside, which could lead to broken drawers or warped wood. In some cases, drawers can be removed and wrapped separately for transport. For antique or delicate wooden furniture, using protective padding like blankets or plastic wrap will help preserve the finish and prevent scratches or dents.
Pianos
Pianos are a prime example of furniture that requires professional handling due to their weight, size, and delicate internal components. Upright and grand pianos can weigh several hundred pounds and have finely tuned mechanisms that can be thrown out of alignment if moved improperly. Properly securing a piano to a dolly or cart and using piano-specific moving straps is essential. Given the risks of moving a piano, many people choose to hire professional movers who have the right equipment and expertise to avoid damage.
Refrigerators and Other Large Appliances
Though not typically classified as furniture, large appliances like refrigerators, washers, and dryers are heavy, awkward, and require extra care during a move. These appliances often contain sensitive components like electrical wiring or refrigeration units that can be damaged if not handled properly. It's essential to secure all cords and hoses and ensure the appliances are thoroughly cleaned and defrosted before moving. Appliances should always be transported in an upright position to avoid damage to their internal mechanisms.