We suggest starting with the checks below, whether you're collecting a purchase, rearranging a room or moving house.
01 / THE PIECE
Check the piece you are actually moving
Use the overall width, depth and height of the right model. For a new purchase, check the package details as well as the assembled size. A boxed item can need different space from the furniture shown in a showroom.
Look for parts that project beyond the main body, such as arms, feet or handles. Leave any measurements you cannot get safely for the person handling the move.
02 / THE ROUTE
Walk the whole route
Follow the path from the piece's starting point to the spot where it will be placed. Include the outside approach, the doorway and any hallway, stairs or elevator along the way.
Check the clear opening with the door open. Then look beyond it: corners, railings, low ceilings and landings can change how a large piece passes through.
A TURN CAN CHANGE THE PLAN
For example
A sofa might pass through a doorway but have too little space to turn in the hall. Check the space beyond the door as well as the opening itself.
Measurements can reveal an obvious problem, but they do not settle every handling question. If a turn or staircase looks doubtful, have the route reviewed before moving the piece.
Moving Pros crew carrying a wrapped piece of furniture.
03 / GET READY
Prepare the furniture and its destination
Check the maker's directions before taking furniture apart. Different pieces come apart in different ways, and some should stay assembled.
Clear small obstacles from the route and make space in the destination room. Keep pets away from the carrying path.
04 / YOUR MOVE
Check the details for your type of move
Collecting a purchase
Confirm that the item is ready, the pickup hours, the order or release details and how it will be packaged. Do this before arranging transport; a purchase confirmation is not the same as an item being ready to collect.
Moving between rooms
Choose the final position before the piece is moved. Clear that space and the route through the home, including places where other furniture may block a turn.
Moving to another address
Consider access at both properties. In a shared building, check any parking, entry or elevator arrangements with the person who manages access.
05 / KNOW WHEN TO PAUSE
Pause if the move does not look workable
Do not force a piece through a narrow opening or try to manage a heavy or awkward item alone. A blocked turn, unstable piece or uncertain lifting plan is a reason to get help before the move starts.
A photo of the whole piece and a wider view of the difficult spot can help explain a question. You can ask about the uncertain part without having a solution worked out.
Donating the piece instead? Check acceptance with your chosen organization before arranging pickup. Our donation pickup guide explains that first step.
Need someone to handle the move?
If you would like moving help, see our retail delivery service for eligible store pickups, furniture rearranging for moves within a property, or residential moving for a household move.
We review the furniture and access before confirming the job.