Furniture Packing Tips
Start by Planning Ahead
Before you begin wrapping and packing, take a moment to plan your move.
- Make an inventory: List all your furniture pieces so you don’t forget anything.
- Measure doorways and hallways: This helps ensure that large items will fit through easily.
- Gather packing supplies: You’ll need bubble wrap, moving blankets, packing tape, plastic wrap, furniture pads, and cardboard sheets.
Planning ahead gives you a clearer picture of what you’ll need and helps you stay organized throughout the process.
Disassemble When Possible
Whenever you can, disassemble large furniture like tables, bed frames, and desks. This makes them easier to move and reduces the risk of damage.
- Remove legs from tables and couches.
- Take apart bed frames and headboards.
- Keep screws, bolts, and small parts in labeled plastic bags and tape them to the main piece.
This step may take extra time, but it will make loading, transporting, and reassembling much easier.
Clean Your Furniture Before Packing
Dust and dirt can scratch surfaces during transport. Give each item a quick clean before wrapping it up.
- Wooden furniture: Wipe with a soft cloth.
- Upholstered pieces: Vacuum thoroughly.
- Leather furniture: Use a leather conditioner to prevent cracks.
Clean furniture not only looks better when it arrives but is also easier to wrap and handle.
Use the Right Packing Materials
The right packing materials make all the difference when it comes to preventing damage. Here’s what to use:
- Plastic wrap: Great for holding protective materials in place and keeping drawers shut.
- Bubble wrap: Perfect for fragile surfaces and corners.
- Moving blankets or pads: Ideal for heavy furniture and large items to prevent scratches.
- Cardboard sheets: Place them between furniture pieces for extra protection.
Avoid using thin plastic or paper—these won’t provide enough cushioning against impacts.
Protect Fragile Areas
Every piece of furniture has parts that are more delicate than others—like glass tops, corners, and handles.
- Wrap glass separately with bubble wrap or thick blankets.
- Use corner protectors for tables and mirrors.
- Remove knobs or handles when possible to avoid breakage.
It’s always better to overprotect these areas than to risk expensive repairs later.
Cover Upholstered Furniture Properly
Couches, chairs, and mattresses can easily collect dirt and moisture during a move.
- Use plastic covers or mattress bags to keep them clean.
- Avoid wrapping upholstered furniture directly with tape—it can leave residue or damage the fabric.
- If possible, store fabric-covered furniture upright to maintain shape.
Keeping these items covered and off the floor will help them stay in good condition.
Label Everything Clearly
Labeling isn’t just for boxes—label your furniture too!
- Write “Fragile,” “This Side Up,” or “Glass” where appropriate.
- Label disassembled parts so you know which piece belongs where.
- Mark which room each item belongs to in your new home.
This simple step will save you time when unpacking and help movers handle your belongings more carefully.
Load Your Furniture Strategically
When it’s time to load your truck or van, placement matters:
- Heavy items first: Load sofas, dressers, and tables at the bottom.
- Lighter or fragile items on top.
- Secure everything tightly with ropes or straps to prevent shifting during transport.
A well-organized truck not only prevents damage but also makes unloading easier at your destination.
Unpack with Care
Once you arrive, don’t rush to unwrap everything at once.
- Check each item for damage as you unpack.
- Reassemble furniture piece by piece.
- Recycle packing materials whenever possible.
Taking your time ensures that everything goes back together properly without unnecessary stress.