Moving day is always a whirlwind, and if you’re not prepared, your furniture can suffer the brunt of the chaos. From scratches and dents to tears and chips, large items like sofas and delicate pieces like glass tables are especially vulnerable. To help, here’s a guide on keeping your furniture safe and sound during your move. With the right preparation, packing techniques and professional support, you can ensure your treasured pieces arrive in perfect condition.

Preparation Before Packing

1. Start with a Good Clean

Cleaning your furniture before moving is an often-overlooked but crucial step. Dust, dirt, or crumbs can scratch surfaces during transport, especially on leather or polished wood. Wipe down surfaces and remove any small items that could cause damage when shifted around in transit.

2. Disassemble Where Possible

If your furniture can be taken apart, consider disassembling it. This includes removing sofa legs, bed frames, table tops, and cushions. Breaking down these items into smaller pieces makes them easier to carry and reduces the chance of knocking into walls, doors, or other furniture. Remember to keep screws, bolts, and other small parts in a labelled bag so they don’t go missing during the move.

3. Protect Delicate Details

For furniture with intricate designs or built-in electronics (like sofas with sound systems), take extra time to secure delicate elements. Wrap cords and cover any controls or buttons with protective materials to prevent them from being damaged or accidentally activated during the move.

1. Proper Wrapping Techniques

Use Quality Padding Materials

When it comes to protecting furniture, padding is essential. Bristol Van Removals recommends using high-quality moving blankets, bubble wrap, and corner protectors for the best results. Wrap fragile pieces completely, ensuring that no surfaces are left exposed. Bubble wrap is particularly useful for glass tabletops and delicate electronics, while thick blankets can shield larger items from scratches and dings.

Secure with Packing Tape or Stretch Wrap

Once wrapped, make sure the protective layers stay in place with packing tape or stretch wrap. Avoid applying tape directly to furniture, as it can leave residue or damage finishes. For especially delicate or high-value items, we offer expert packing services to ensure your pieces are fully secure.

Protect Corners and Edges

Corners and edges are particularly vulnerable during a move. Use foam padding or dedicated corner protectors to shield them from bumps. Many removal companies, including ourselves, provide these materials as part of their professional packing service.

2. Handling Delicate Furniture

Moving Glass and Fragile Items

Glass tables, mirrors, and other fragile pieces require extra attention. Wrap these items in bubble wrap, covering all sides and edges before placing them in specially designed moving boxes. For mirrors and glass, adding a cardboard sheet between layers of bubble wrap can help prevent cracks.

Furniture with Integrated Electronics

Sofas with built-in speakers, power recliners, or charging ports need to be handled carefully. Disconnect all power sources, and, if possible, remove any detachable electronics. Wrap cables separately, and label everything clearly for easy reassembly in your new home.

3. Loading and Unloading Tips

Safe Lifting Techniques

Large furniture pieces are often awkward and heavy. Practising safe lifting techniques is essential to avoid injury and damage to the furniture. Lift with your legs, not your back, and make use of lifting straps if you have them. Bristol Van Removals’ team are trained in the safest handling practices, reducing the risk of accidents.

Plan the Pathway

Before lifting, plan your route from the home to the van. Measure doorways and hallways to ensure your items will fit through without issue. Having a clear path reduces the chance of bumping into walls or dropping items. Bristol Van Removals can also offer advice on manoeuvring furniture through tight spaces or challenging staircases.

Arrange Items Carefully in the Van

Loading the van strategically will keep your furniture stable in transit. Place heavy items like sofas and dressers against the walls and secure them with straps to prevent shifting. Stack lighter, fragile items on top, and avoid placing heavy items on anything breakable. If this sounds overwhelming, consider Bristol Van Removals’ packing service to guarantee everything is secure.

4. Storage Considerations

If your move involves long-term storage, additional precautions will keep your furniture in top condition.

Choose a Climate-Controlled Unit

Certain furniture materials, such as leather and wood, can warp, crack, or degrade in fluctuating temperatures. Climate-controlled storage helps protect your pieces from humidity and temperature changes. For peace of mind, Bristol Van Removals offers connections with storage facilities that prioritise these conditions.

Keep Furniture Elevated

Place furniture on pallets or risers to prevent it from coming into contact with dust, moisture, or any potential flooding that could occur in a storage unit.

Use Durable Covers

Consider covering furniture with durable, breathable materials instead of plastic. While plastic is water-resistant, it can trap moisture, leading to mildew or mould growth. Cloth covers provide protection while allowing air circulation, which is ideal for storage.

Let Bristol Van Removals Handle the Hard Work

Moving furniture can be challenging and stressful, especially when you’re handling heavy, awkward or delicate pieces. That’s where Bristol Van Removals comes in. Our experienced team is equipped with high-quality packing materials, lifting equipment, and vans to ensure your furniture is transported safely and securely. Whether it’s a leather sofa or an intricate glass coffee table, we know the best techniques to get your belongings from A to B without a scratch.

For a stress-free move, let Bristol Van Removals handle your furniture with care. Contact us today for a free quote and see how we can make your move as smooth as possible!