Moving house is a significant milestone, but without the right preparation and planning, it can
also lead to damage, particularly to your cherished furniture. Whether you’re moving a single
statement piece or an entire household’s worth, taking the time to prepare properly can
make all the difference. With decades of experience crafting quality wooden furniture, we at
Sapphire Wood understand just how important it is to ensure your furniture arrives at its new
home in the same condition it left.
This guide covers essential tips to help you prepare and protect your treasured furniture
items during your upcoming move.
Take Inventory and Assess Your Furniture
Start by listing all the furniture you plan to move. Make a note of each piece’s dimensions,
materials, and current condition. This isn’t just useful for tracking potential damage. It also
helps determine the level of protection each item may need. Take photos for reference,
which can be helpful for insurance purposes and when setting up your new home.
Clean and Prepare Each Piece
Before you begin packing, clean your furniture thoroughly. Dust and debris can cause
scratches if left on surfaces during the move. Use a soft cloth and mild cleaning solution for
wooden furniture, ensuring it’s fully dry before wrapping.
Also take a moment to clean the floors before moving anything. Grit and small particles on
the ground can easily get trapped underneath furniture and cause scratches or scuffs. A
freshly swept and mopped floor provides a smoother path and prevents unnecessary
damage during the move.
Disassemble Where Possible
Large or awkwardly shaped furniture is easier and safer to transport when disassembled.
Remove legs from tables, take drawers out of cabinets, and detach shelves or fragile
components. Store screws, bolts and fittings in clearly labelled bags and tape them to the
furniture or place in a safe box.
Where possible, disassembly reduces weight and the chance of an item getting caught in
doorways or hallways. It also helps avoid potentially costly mishaps like a drawer sliding
open and causing damage or injury mid-move.
Wrap and Protect
Protective wrapping is key to a smooth, damage-free move. Wrap wooden furniture in
padded moving blankets, then secure them with stretch wrap or straps to keep them in
place. Avoid wrapping plastic directly against wood, as it can trap moisture and affect the
finish.
Soft furnishings and fragile components, like glass inserts or mirrored panels, should be
cushioned with bubble wrap or thick blankets. This not only protects them from chips and
scratches but also minimises the risk of shifting in transit.
Using padded covers also prevents accidental damage to walls and floors while items are
being carried through tight spaces.
Plan the Moving Path
Before moving day, measure doorways, stairwells, and lifts in both your current and new
home. Compare these dimensions to your furniture to ensure everything can pass through
safely.
Clear pathways of any obstructions and use floor coverings where necessary to protect
against dents and scrapes. Furniture sliders and wheeled dollies can help with moving heavy
items and reduce strain.
Choosing the Right Removalist for Your Furniture Move
Not all movers offer the same services, especially when it comes to handling quality wooden
furniture. It’s important to do a bit of research before booking. Look for Sydney removalists
who have strong local knowledge, a history of successful moves in your area, and the right
insurance in place to protect your items.
Expert Tip:
“When choosing your moving team, focus on companies with a proven track record in your
area—those completing a high number of local moves have the experience needed to
navigate your neighbourhood with care. Look for removalists with consistently positive
reviews, responsive customer support, and comprehensive insurance to protect your
furniture in transit.
”— Ed Burton, Co-founder & CEO Upmove
A trusted moving team will load correctly, placing heavier, sturdier items on the bottom of the
truck, with lighter and more fragile pieces on top. They’ll use soft blankets between items to
avoid scratches or dents, and secure everything with straps to prevent shifting in transit.
Unpack Thoughtfully
When you arrive at your new home, resist the urge to rush. Take the time to unload carefully
and reassemble furniture following any photos or notes taken earlier. Check each piece for
damage as you go.
Be particularly careful with reattaching legs, drawers or shelving. Forcing components can
lead to cracks or weakening of the structure.
Moving is more than just a change of address. It’s about preserving the value and memories
attached to the things you love. At Sapphire Wood, our commitment to craftsmanship means
we build furniture to last a lifetime—and beyond. With the right planning, protective steps,
and expert help, your treasured furniture can continue its journey with you in excellent
condition.
