Moving Heavy Furniture - A Practical Guide

Moving a sofa, wardrobe or other heavy furniture starts with checking the item and the route out of the property. The quote needs to reflect its size, the access at both addresses and the loading help required, rather than just the driving distance.

What to include in a furniture moving quote

• List every item and give its height, width and depth. Include a known weight or manufacturer details where available; do not guess a weight you cannot check.
• Describe the collection and delivery floors, stairs, lift dimensions, narrow turns and distance from the entrance to the loading position.
• Explain whether the item can be dismantled and who will prepare it. Include photos of awkward access when discussing the booking.
• Give the collection date, seller or building access window and any delivery restrictions.
• State who can help with loading and unloading so the required assistance can be agreed before the move.

Use our furniture moving service for a furniture load, or single-item transport for one sofa, wardrobe or similar item. A single item can still need substantial loading help; the item count alone does not determine the crew or vehicle required.

Check the route before collection

Measure door openings and tight turns as well as the furniture. Check the route at the delivery address too. If a lift is needed, confirm its dimensions, permitted use and availability with the building manager. Tell the booking team about any uncertainty before the collection day.

Arrange a suitable loading position at each address and check any building or parking requirements. A long carry, restricted loading window or several flights of stairs can change the time and help needed.

Agree dismantling and loading help

Declare any dismantling or assembly when booking. It may be possible if agreed and enough time is allocated, but it is not automatically included. Provide the necessary tools, fixings and manufacturer instructions; the allocated driver may decline work that is unsafe, impractical or outside the confirmed booking.

Keep labelled fixings together and explain which pieces will be ready for collection. Confirm the loading assistance and any equipment needed for the specific item rather than assuming that one driver can handle it. If the item or access is unsuitable, agree another arrangement before the move.

Compare the full service scope

Compare quotes using the same inventory, addresses, access details and loading requirements. Check the allocated time, how additional time is charged, and whether agreed dismantling or assembly is covered. Confirm the applicable cover, limits and exclusions for your items rather than assuming every type of damage is covered.

For a marketplace purchase, agree payment and collection readiness with the seller separately. Make sure someone can provide access at collection and receive the item at delivery. Tell the booking team if either time window changes.

Specialist items and larger moves

Declare pianos, antiques, exceptionally heavy pieces and unusual access before booking. Their requirements need to be assessed; a standard furniture booking does not establish that specialist handling is available.

If the furniture is part of a complete household move, include the boxes and other belongings in the inventory and consider house removals. This helps the quote reflect the full job.