Moving small furniture might seem like a simple task, but preparation is key to keeping your stuff safe during the move.

Whether you’re hiring local movers in Fairfax County or packing it yourself, follow these steps to ensure your furniture is protected during pick up, transport and delivery.

In this new blog post, we explain every step in simple terms, with local conditions in mind so your move is as smooth as possible.

How to Get Your Small Furniture Ready for Safe Pick-Up and Delivery

Assess and Plan Your Move

The first step in prepping your small furniture pick up and delivery is to work out what needs to be moved.

Think about the size, weight and fragility of each piece. This will help you figure out how to pack and protect each item.

Planning Tips:

• Make a List: Write down all the furniture you’re moving. Note any special requirements, like fragile items or items that need to be disassembled.
• Measure Doorways and Hallways: Check if each piece of furniture can fit through doorways, hallways and stairwells. This is especially important if you live in an older home with narrow spaces or if you’re moving to or from an apartment building with small lifts.

Disassemble Furniture When You Can

Taking apart your furniture will make it easier to carry and reduce the risk of damage. Smaller pieces are less likely to get scratched or broken and can be packed more securely.

How to Take Apart:

• Label Parts and Hardware: Use tape or labels to mark each piece so you can put it back together again. Put all screws, bolts and small parts in a labelled ziplock bag and tape it to the corresponding piece of furniture.
• Follow Instructions: If you have the original instructions for assembly, use them as a guide. If not, take photos as you take things apart so you can refer to them when you need to put it back together.

Clean Your Furniture Before You Pack

Cleaning your furniture before you pack is key to prevent scratches and stains from dirt and dust during the move and to have your furniture arrive at your new home in the best condition.

How to Clean:

• Wood Furniture: Dust and clean with a mild wood cleaner. Consider applying a protective polish to prevent scratches.
• Upholstered Furniture: Vacuum fabric surfaces to get rid of dust and debris. Spot clean any stains with the appropriate cleaning solution. Leather surfaces wipe down with a damp cloth and apply leather conditioner.
• Metal Furniture: Clean metal surfaces with a damp cloth and dry immediately to prevent rust.

Wrap and Protect Your Furniture

Wrapping and protecting your furniture is one of the most important steps in the moving process.

It prevents damage from bumps, scratches and other accidents that can happen during transit.

Materials Needed:

• Bubble Wrap: For fragile items like glass tabletops or mirrors.
• Furniture Pads or Blankets: Thick, padded blankets for wooden and upholstered furniture.
• Plastic Wrap: To secure the padding and wrap items that need to be kept dry.

How to Wrap:

• Focus on Vulnerable Areas: Wrap corners, edges and any protruding parts extra carefully. These areas are most prone to damage during the move.
• Secure Everything: Make sure all the padding is taped or wrapped with plastic so it doesn’t come off during the move.

Pro Tip: If you’re moving during the wet season or in areas with unpredictable weather, double wrap items to keep them dry during the journey.

Clear the Path for Easy Movement

Make sure the path from your furniture to the moving vehicle is clear and accessible for a smooth move.

Remove any obstacles that could hinder the moving process like rugs, doormats or other furniture.

Local Challenges:

• Stairwells and Elevators: If you live in a high-rise building, check the size and availability of elevators. In some cases you may need to book an elevator for your move or use stairwells. Ensure stairwells are clear and your local movers in Fairfax County have enough space to move.
• Street Access: In busy city areas, coordinate with your moving company to ensure the moving truck has access to your building. You may need to reserve a parking spot or get a temporary permit.

Hire Professional Movers

If you’re professional for your small furniture pick up and delivery, choose local movers that has experience with small furniture.

Clear communication is key.

Hiring Tips:

• Check Credentials: Make sure the moving company is licensed and insured. Check their experience with small furniture deliveries.
• Communicate Special Requirements: Tell the movers if you have any special instructions for fragile items or narrow doorways. They can come prepared with the right equipment.

Monitor the Moving Process

Stay involved during the delivery process and everything will go smoothly. If possible, be present during both pick up and delivery to oversee your furniture.

Monitoring Tips:

• Stay in Touch: Keep in contact with the moving team throughout the process. Ask for updates and communicate any issues immediately.
• Inspect Upon Arrival: When your furniture arrives, inspect each item carefully. Take photos of any damage and report to the moving company straight away.

Reassemble and Settle

Once your furniture has arrived safely, it’s time to reassemble. Refer to the labels, photos and instructions you took during disassembly.

Reassembly Tips:

• Take Your Time: Reassemble slowly and carefully to avoid damaging any parts. Make sure all screws and bolts are tightened but don’t over tighten which can damage the furniture.
• Position Carefully: Once reassembled, place your furniture in its intended position. Use felt pads under the legs to prevent scratching floors.

Conclusion

Preparing your small furniture pick up and delivery involves several steps, from disassembly and cleaning to wrapping and monitoring the move.

Whether you’re moving across town or to another state, take the time to prepare your furniture and you’ll reduce the risk of damage and make the move smooth.

By taking into account local factors like weather, urban logistics and cultural norms you can prepare specifically for your situation.

This will not only protect your belongings but make the move less stressful and more manageable.

Whether you’re moving within a city like Maryland or moving items across Fairfax County, follow this guide and you’ll be delivering small furniture like a pro.