How to Move a Couch by Yourself vs Hiring Movers

Moving A Sofa Yourself vs. Hiring Movers

Due to its size and weight, moving a sofa can be challenging. Whether you decide to move a sofa yourself using a dolly or to hire professional movers, it’s important to follow proper procedures to ensure the furniture remains clean, safe from tears, and efficiently transported. This guide provides detailed steps on the best way to move a couch no matter if you are moving a couch alone or hiring a moving company. Additionally, these moving tips will help prepare the sofa for moving into a new home or storing it in a storage unit.

Materials Needed

Before starting the move, gather the necessary materials:

• Moving blankets or padded furniture covers
• Shrink wrap or plastic stretch wrap
• Furniture sliders
• Moving dolly
• Straps or ropes
• Tape
• Tools for disassembling the couch (if applicable)

Preparing the Couch To Be Moved

Measure the Couch and Pathways

Measure the dimensions of your couch and the doorways, hallways, and staircases it needs to pass through. This will help determine if you need to disassemble the couch or remove the doors.

Clean the Couch

Remove any pillows, cushions, and other detachable items. This reduces weight and prevents these items from getting in the way during the move. Clean the couch to remove any dirt or debris that could cause damage during transport.

Disassemble if Possible

If your couch has detachable legs, arms, or other parts, disassemble them. This makes the couch easier to maneuver and reduces the risk of damage. Store all screws and small parts in a labeled bag.

Wrapping the Couch

Cover with Moving Blankets

Drape moving blankets over the entire couch, ensuring all sides are covered. This provides a protective layer to prevent scratches and tears.

Secure with Shrink Wrap

After covering with blankets, wrap the entire couch with shrink wrap. This keeps the blankets in place and adds an extra layer of protection against dirt and moisture. You can purchase a sofa wrap or cover on Amazon, ahead of your move.

How To Move A Couch:

Clear a Path

Ensure the path from your couch to the moving truck is clear of obstacles to prevent accidents and make the move more efficient.

Utilize a Dolly

Learn how to move a couch with a dolly. Carefully lift one end of the sofa onto the dolly and secure it with straps.

Use Furniture Sliders

Place furniture sliders under the legs or base of the couch to make it easier to move across floors or rooms, eliminating damage.

Have a Partner

Always have at least one other person to help you. This makes the move safer and more manageable. 

Lift with Proper Form

When lifting the couch, bend at your knees and keep your back straight to avoid injury. Always lift with your legs, not your back.

Hire A Mover

For heavier couches, like sleeper sofas or sectionals, we suggest enlisting the help of a professional mover.

Loading a Couch into the Truck

Strategically Place the Couch

When packing couches in a moving truck, load the couch and place it against a wall to prevent it from shifting during transit. Use straps to secure it in place.

Protect with Blankets

Once the couch is in the truck, cover it again with moving blankets to shield it from other items and potential impacts during the move.

Preparing a Sofa for Storage

Clean Thoroughly

Before storing your sofa, clean it thoroughly. This includes vacuuming the cushions, cleaning stains, and wiping down surfaces. A clean sofa is less likely to develop mold or mildew in a dark, enclosed space.

Use Appropriate Covers

If you’re moving your sofa into storage, avoid using moving blankets unless you purchase them. Instead, cover your sofa with breathable fabric covers to prevent dust and dirt buildup while allowing air circulation to avoid moisture accumulation.

Disassemble if Possible

If possible, disassemble your sofa, just like when moving. This makes it easier to store and reduces the risk of damage.

Additional Tips

Protect Corners and Edges

Use extra padding on the corners and edges of the couch to prevent damage when navigating tight spaces.

Handle with Care

Be extra cautious when moving a leather couch. Leather is more susceptible to scratches and tears, so ensure it is thoroughly wrapped and padded.

Monitor Weather Conditions

If you are moving during inclement weather, ensure the couch is well-protected from rain or snow with a sofa cover. Use plastic wrap and additional blankets as needed.

Situations When Moving A Sofa Is Challenging

How to Move a Couch Through A Door

Start by measuring the dimensions of the couch and the doorway to ensure there’s enough clearance. If the couch is too large, consider removing the door from its hinges to gain extra space. To protect the furniture and walls from damage, cover the couch with a blanket or moving pads. Enlist the help of at least one other person to assist with the move. Tilt the couch to an angle, often vertically or at a slight diagonal, to maneuver it through the door more easily. Communicate clearly with your helper to coordinate movements and adjust angles as needed. If necessary, remove couch legs or other detachable parts to reduce its size. Be patient and take your time to avoid any damage to the couch or the doorway.

How to Move a Couch Upstairs

First, measure the couch and staircase dimensions to ensure the couch can fit through the stairway. Remove any obstacles along the path and consider protecting the walls and railings with moving pads or blankets to prevent damage. Enlist at least one strong helper, and decide on a clear communication plan to coordinate movements. Begin by tilting the couch to an angle that allows it to fit through tight spaces. One person should lead from the top, guiding the couch and managing the weight, while the other supports from the bottom, lifting and pushing. Move slowly and steadily, taking necessary breaks to rest and reassess your strategy. If the staircase is narrow or winding, it may help to remove couch legs or other detachable parts. Ensure you have a firm grip and maintain control throughout the process to avoid accidents or injuries.

Should You Hire Professionals?

Hiring professional movers can alleviate the stress and physical labor of moving a couch with their move-a-couch service. Experienced movers have the skills and equipment to safely handle large and awkward items. Here are some advantages of hiring professionals:

• Expertise in disassembling and reassembling furniture
• Access to high-quality moving supplies and equipment
• Efficient handling of heavy and delicate items
• Reduced risk of injury and damage

Preparation and Know How Are Key For A Couch Move

Moving a couch requires careful preparation, proper materials, and the right techniques. Whether you hire movers to move a couch or move the sofa yourself, following these guidelines will help ensure your couch arrives at your new home clean, safe, and undamaged. If you’re ever in doubt or find the task too daunting, don’t hesitate to contact professional moving services to assist you.