Start by measuring. Use a tape measure to check the width of the stairwell, the height of each step, ceiling clearance, and any corners or tight turns. Then, measure your furniture—height, width, and depth. Don’t assume anything will fit just because it made it into your last home.
A sofa that fits in a living room might not make it around a narrow stair landing unless it’s turned vertically or taken apart. Take note of anything awkwardly shaped that may catch on railings or walls.
It’s much better to know now than to have a piece jammed halfway with nowhere to go.
Next, break furniture down into manageable pieces if possible. Remove legs from couches and tables. Take drawers out of dressers and detach shelves from bookcases.
Doing this makes everything lighter and easier to angle. It also reduces the chances of banging into corners or scraping paint off walls. Put any loose screws or hardware into a zip-top bag and tape it securely to the item, so nothing gets lost or mixed up during the move.
Before you lift anything, clear the path. Remove rugs, electrical cords, boxes, or anything that could cause someone to trip. If a door swings into your path, remove it from the hinges. Cover walls, railings, and edges with moving blankets or foam to avoid chips or scuffs.
On wooden stairs, some people lay down cardboard for extra protection. Also, wrap your furniture securely with blankets or stretch wrap to prevent damage during tight squeezes or accidental bumps.
