Preparing furniture and floors for a move
Photograph awkward pieces, clear the route and label removed hardware. For new floors, get the contractor’s instructions before furniture returns.
Photograph the furniture and the narrow spots
Send a full view of large pieces plus photos of fragile parts, loose joints or existing damage. Show tight doorways, stair landings and hallway turns. Include the route into the destination room.
For a large desk, bed or sectional, note which parts come apart and whether you have assembly instructions. Measurements and photos help the mover decide what needs a closer look.
Agree on disassembly before moving day
List the furniture that needs to come apart and be put back together. Empty drawers or shelves according to the mover’s instructions. Keep removable glass and other fragile parts identified for the crew.
If you remove hardware yourself, place it in a labeled bag that names the exact piece. Keep the bag and instructions together. Avoid putting loose screws in an unmarked box with hardware from several rooms.
Clear the route and discuss floor protection
Remove cords, toys, loose rugs and discarded packing material from the route to the door. Show the crew any surface or doorway that needs particular attention. Ask which protection materials will be used and who supplies them.
Do not apply tape or adhesive coverings to a finished surface without checking that they are suitable. Leave lifting and equipment choices to the crew handling the piece.
For a flooring project, get the return date from the contractor
Newly installed or refinished floors can have different requirements for furniture, rugs and protective coverings. Get the flooring contractor’s instructions before booking furniture to come back.
Send the room list, expected completion date and access restrictions to the mover. If the flooring schedule changes, update the return booking.
Decide where the largest pieces belong
Make a simple room sketch or mark the furniture positions on a floor plan. Check that doors can open and walkways remain usable.
Show the crew the intended positions before furniture comes in. That helps avoid carrying a large piece across the room again after other items are in place.