An otherwise appropriate couch may seem even larger in a hallway or between two narrow doors, so it is crucial to take measurements of your path outside and eliminate barriers such as doors that could block its passage in order to give more room for the couch.
Flat furniture dollys can be an invaluable aid when moving couches, relieving you of straining to lift them without risking back pain or straining to use floor sliders alone. If no dolly is available, floor sliders may suffice instead.
Measure the Couch
Your couch is likely one of the most beloved pieces in your house and, therefore, one of the dirtiest. It is where you spill that glass of wine you were holding while watching movies with the kids or relax after an exhausting day at work.
Before buying a sofa, be sure it fits comfortably into your space. Start by measuring the width of your front door, hallways or inner doors it must pass through at their narrowest points as well as any obstructions such as radiators or shelving that might obstruct transport of it.
Next, measure the length of your living room and add together these measurements to determine where your couch will rest. Finally, calculate its depth by measuring from outside edge of seat back cushion – this should give an approximate measurement that should allow for doorway measurements plus 4 inches to account for moving costs and ensure it fits.
Remove the Cushions and Covers
If your couch features removable cushions or covers, take care to place them in a large box for safekeeping. Also remove detachable legs from its base. Afterward, wrap the entire couch in tight plastic wrap in order to protect its upholstery from protruding objects and moisture during transport, according to Stor-It. For added protection in a pinch you could also use tarps, drop cloths or old sheets as protection measures.
If you’re moving a couch up or down stairs, have someone hold onto each end and gently lift. Be sure to communicate with your helpers so everyone lifts their portion at the same time, according to Moving Tips. Attempt not to rush as tight corners and narrow openings may require going slower.
Load It Up
Moving a couch requires teamwork. If possible, recruit some strong friends to assist with lifting and maneuvering it, or use a furniture dolly with straps securing it to move it across. From there, roll the sofa back to your vehicle!
Prep the couch by removing cushions, pillows and any removable parts such as legs. This will make it lighter and easier to transport according to MiniMax. Also consider covering it in plastic or moving blankets to protect from scratches and dirt accumulation.
Plans the path you’ll take outside and clear away any obstructions or large, heavy objects from its path. Once loaded, use a loading ramp to safely roll your couch into your truck – once inside, secure with tie-downs and you’re off!
Transport It
Get someone else to assist with carrying the couch into your vehicle and clear a path from where it currently resides to its final destination, making sure there are no roadblocks such as Lego pieces or tables which might obstruct its journey.
Furniture sliders or padding are essential in protecting both floors and couches from damage during transport. A furniture dolly makes moving couches simple: just tilt one end over and slide underneath to move. Once on its platform, use furniture straps to secure it safely for transport.
For stairs or other challenging maneuvers, it’s advisable to seek assistance from friends or hire professional movers through an online marketplace shipping site such as CitizenShipper. Alternatively, one-off help from people in your community such as TaskRabbit might also come in handy; just assess what you can and cannot do safely before calling in the pros as needed.