Moving big and heavy furniture can be hard. Things like a big dresser can break when you move them because of their size and shape. People often ask how to move these things and make it easier. This guide will show you how to move a dresser step by step.
Weight and Size of a Dresser
Prior to relocating your dresser, it is imperative to ascertain its dimensions and weight. The weight of the dresser is contingent upon the contents it holds, in addition to the construction material utilized. For instance, solid wood is a denser material that can pose challenges during transportation.
Furthermore, the dimensions of the dresser and the hallways/doorways in your new abode may present an obstacle. Consequently, it is necessary to measure the dresser and disassemble it as required. This will ensure a smooth and efficient relocation process, while minimizing the risk of damage to the dresser or surrounding areas.
Prepare Supplies
Moving requires planning and preparation, including small details. That is why you will need to prepare all the necessary supplies before you start. Here is a list of some supplies that you will need:
- Measuring tape
- Tool kit
- Zip-top bags
- Tape
- Paper padding
- Permanent marker
- Plastic stretch wrap, furniture blankets,
- Moving dolly or furniture sliders.
Taking the content from the dresser or not?
Before you move a dresser, check what kind of items are inside the drawers and separate the ones that you want to keep. If you would like to hold sharp or small stuff inside the drawers, you will need to protect them first. The main reason is that they can be knocking against the dresser and cause damage inside the drawers.
Pay Attention to Small Items
It is advisable to exercise caution when preparing for the transportation of your dresser. It is recommended that you meticulously wrap and remove all items that are situated on or within the top of the dresser, such as cosmetics, jewelry, perfume bottles, photos, books, candles, and other similar items.
This is because such items have the potential to cause scratches and damage to your furniture during transit. Additionally, it is important to note that many dressers come equipped with mirrors that must be removed and securely wrapped in bubble wrap before being packed into a cardboard box. This is to prevent the mirrors from shattering into numerous pieces during transportation.
Should I keep clothes inside the drawers?
When you move a dresser, this is one of the common doubts. Keeping your clothes inside will not damage your drawers, but the weight can be a trouble. In case you prefer keeping your clothes inside the drawers, consider pulling drawers out from the dresser with your clothes. By doing so, you will use drawers as boxes, and carrying your dresser will be easier. Also, the items as towels, bedsheets, and clothes you can pack in the cardboard box, keeping them clean and ready for use.
Wrap your drawers
In order to safeguard your belongings, it is advisable to wrap and protect the contents of your drawers from any potential damage, regardless of whether you choose to retain them within the drawers or not. Should you wish to utilize the free space within the drawers, it is recommended to employ pillows as they are lightweight and easily transportable, although their size may preclude them from being packed within a cardboard box.
Subsequently, it is imperative to take measures to protect your dresser. The most effective approach is to envelop both the drawers and the entire dresser with multiple layers of stretch wrap, thereby shielding it from scratches, dust, and moisture.
What about high dressers?
There are different sizes of furniture in your household, and the biggest problem that you will come across during your move is the transport of huge furniture pieces. That is why the best solution on this occasion will be to disassemble them. If you are wondering how to do that on your own, here are some tips that can help you.
First of all, protect your floors before placing the dresser on the ground. The next step will be removing all the screws and bolts and carefully moving every side of the dresser. Cover and secure the bigger parts of the dresser with stretch wrap or a moving blanket to protect from damage.
All screws, bolts, and small pieces should be packed together in a plastic or zip-top bag. If there is no need to disassemble your dresser, then only use one or two moving blankets, cover from all sides, and secure with packing tape, but be careful not to place the tape on the surface because that will leave sticky marks on a dresser.
Continue wrapping with tape a few times, following directions; from top to bottom. When you are done with this, lift the dresser up and tape padding under the bottom too. To do so, set another furniture blanket on the floor and place the dresser in the middle of the blanket and fold it upwards, ensuring it in place with tape.
Moving a dresser
All previous preparations are over, and you are only a few steps away from completing this heavy job. The next thing you should do is to plan a route and clear your way from obstacles. The simplest way to transfer your dresser will be using a moving dolly. Like this, the only thing that you need to do is to tilt your dresser and use straps to secure it to the dolly to prevent shifting. If you decide to carry a dresser by yourself, do not forget to take proper posture position − bend your knees (not the waist) and keep your back straight and upright.
Lift a dresser carefully, keeping it close to your body while carrying it. Make sure to take all the necessary precautions, otherwise, you can harm yourself and the furniture too. The safest option will be to hire professional movers who have more experience in this field to move a dresser, so you can avoid moving injuries. If you need any help or professional advice, our moving and storage NYC is here for you.
