Six steps to move a couch
- Measure. Measure the couch's length, depth, height and width of the arms, then the doors, hallways, stair turns and elevator at both addresses.
- Clear the route. Remove rugs, pictures and anything on the walls, prop doors open and mark tight turns.
- Strip it. Take off cushions, legs and any removable arms or backs, and bag the hardware.
- Wrap it. Cover the body with a blanket or pad, secure it with stretch wrap over the pad and protect the corners.
- Carry it on its end or side. Tilt the couch, lead with the narrow end and keep it close to your body, with one person calling the turns.
- Load it upright. Stand it on its end against the truck wall, strapped, with nothing heavy placed on it.
A couch is not especially heavy for its size, but it is long, awkward and easy to tear. Most trouble comes from tight corners, not weight. A little planning at both ends saves scraped door frames and a ripped arm.
The measuring rules
A couch can usually pass through a door that is a few inches wider than its depth if it is tilted. Stairs with a tight turn need the couch's height and depth to clear the turn, and it helps to know how much clearance is above the landing. Write the numbers down and take a tape measure to the new home as well.
Sectionals and sleepers
Sectionals separate into pieces that are easier to carry. Sleeper sofas are heavy because of the folding frame and should be secured closed before lifting. Reclining couches can have their back removed on some models; check the manual.
Leather and delicate fabric
Leather scratches and fabric snags. Keep furniture off rough surfaces, wrap with a clean pad, and avoid plastic wrap on the upholstery. See how to wrap furniture for moving.
When to call a crew
If the couch has to go through a second-floor window, a tight stairwell or a long shuttle from a narrow street, a trained crew with the right equipment is safer than friends with good intentions. O'Brien's offers in-home furniture moving for single pieces and full moves; read local moving for how a household move works.