How To Move Heavy Furniture By Yourself: 10 Easy Ways & Tricks
Moving heavy furniture is one of the most physically demanding parts of any relocation. Whether you’re shifting a bulky couch across the living room or moving a wardrobe to a new home, the challenge remains the same: how do you do it safely and without damaging your belongings or your body?
While furniture removalists are trained to handle these jobs with ease, there are times when you may want to try it yourself, especially if you’re rearranging a room, moving a single item, or waiting for help to arrive. The good news? With the right techniques and tools, moving heavy furniture by yourself can be manageable and injury-free.
In this guide, we’ll share 10 practical ways and clever tricks to help you move heavy furniture safely and efficiently. From using sliders and dollies to mastering simple movement methods, you’ll learn how to lighten the load without lifting it all alone.
That said, if the task starts to feel overwhelming or risky, don’t take chances. Professional movers Perth residents trust—like Best Movers & Packers Perth—are always ready to help with reliable, affordable services. Your safety should always come first.
Important Disclaimer: Safety First
Before you attempt to move any heavy furniture on your own, it’s important to understand the risks involved. Lifting and shifting bulky items without proper technique or equipment can lead to serious injuries such as muscle strains, back injuries, or even accidents that damage your property.
Not all furniture is safe to move alone. Items like pianos, large wardrobes, glass cabinets, or anything over 50kg can be especially hazardous without help. If your move involves navigating stairs, tight spaces, or fragile flooring, the risk increases further.
DIY moving can be empowering, but knowing when to call the pros can save you a lot of pain, literally and financially. For long-distance moves, interstate removalists are often the safest option, as they have the tools, vehicles, and expertise to transport heavy and delicate furniture securely.
Plan and Prepare Before Lifting
A successful furniture move starts long before you lift a single item. Proper planning and preparation can prevent injuries, protect your furniture, and make the whole process smoother, especially if you’re moving without help.
- Start by measuring everything: Know the dimensions of the furniture you’re moving and compare them to the width of your doorways, hallways, and staircases. This helps avoid getting stuck or damaging walls.
- Clear the path: Remove rugs, cords, and obstacles that could trip you up. Create a straight and open route to your destination.
- Disassemble when possible: Remove rugs, cords, and obstacles that could trip you up. Create a straight and open route to your destination.
- Protect your home and your furniture: Use blankets or cardboard to shield door frames, walls, and floors. Wrap delicate surfaces in padding or plastic to prevent scratches.
- Make a checklist: Before you begin, write down what tools you’ll need and what order to move items in. This minimizes unnecessary lifting and saves time.
Remember, this is exactly how professionals operate, planning every step to avoid damage and delays. If it seems too complex or risky, don’t hesitate to get expert help.
Must-Have Tools to Move Furniture Alone
If you’re planning to move heavy furniture by yourself, having the right tools can make the job not only easier but significantly safer. These are the same tools used by professionals, and they’re readily available to buy or hire locally.
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Furniture Sliders
Sliders are placed under the legs or corners of heavy furniture to reduce friction and allow you to glide items across floors without lifting. Use plastic sliders for carpeted floors and felt sliders for hardwood or tiles to avoid scratches.
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Moving Straps (Lifting Straps or Shoulder Dollies)
These straps help distribute the weight of large furniture more evenly across your body, reducing strain on your back and arms. They’re ideal for tall items like wardrobes or bookcases.
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Furniture Dolly or Hand Truck
A dolly with wheels allows you to roll heavy items with minimal effort. Choose one with a non-slip base and strong frame, especially if you’re moving appliances or boxes full of items.
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Blankets and Padding
Protect sharp edges, corners, and fragile surfaces with moving blankets. This prevents nicks on walls or dents on your furniture.
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Grip Gloves
A pair of heavy-duty gloves will improve your grip and prevent cuts or splinters.
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Plastic Wrap and Tape
Secure drawers, doors, and loose parts before moving to prevent shifting or damage.
Need these tools fast? Many furniture removal experts rent them out or include them as part of their moving service, another reason to consider going pro when needed.
10 Easy Ways & Tricks to Move Heavy Furniture By Yourself
Moving heavy furniture on your own doesn’t have to be a struggle. With the right techniques and tools, you can safely shift beds, dressers, couches, and more without damaging your home or your back. Here are 10 expert-approved methods used by both experienced DIYers and removalists.
1. Use Furniture Sliders on Carpet or Hardwood
Furniture sliders are game-changers. Simply place them under each leg or corner of your furniture, and glide it effortlessly across the floor.
On carpets: Use plastic sliders.
On hardwood or tiles: Use soft felt or rubber-backed sliders to avoid scratches.
Sliders work best on flat surfaces, and they’re reusable, making them a smart investment for anyone moving house.
2. Try the “Walk” or “Rock and Slide” Method
If you don’t have sliders, you can “walk” your furniture by tilting it slightly and moving one side at a time.
Gently rock one corner forward and shift it.
Repeat on the opposite side, essentially inching the item forward.
This method works well for wide furniture like bookshelves and sideboards. Just be cautious not to scuff your floors.
3. Tilt and Pivot: Don’t Drag
Dragging puts immense pressure on the flooring and can weaken joints in older furniture. Instead, tilt the item back and pivot it slowly.
Tip: When moving a sofa through a doorway, stand it on end and pivot it vertically to fit through tight angles.
This technique is common among movers, especially in small apartments or units with narrow entrances.
4. Use Lifting Straps for Better Weight Distribution
Lifting straps (aka moving straps or shoulder dollies) take the strain off your arms and back. They work by distributing the load across stronger muscle groups like your legs and shoulders.
- Ideal for carrying items like fridges, cabinets, or large boxes.
- Adjustable straps allow better posture and stability.
Just make sure you’ve practiced how to wear them correctly, or call in furniture movers if you’re unsure.
5. Disassemble What You Can
Take furniture apart whenever possible. Removing legs, drawers, cushions, or shelves can dramatically reduce weight and improve maneuverability.
- Use labeled bags to store screws and small hardware.
- Take photos before disassembly to make reassembly easier.
Professional movers always disassemble large items before transport for this very reason.
6. Use a Furniture Dolly for Bulky Items
A dolly or hand truck is perfect for transporting fridges, washers, desks, and more. It saves time, reduces injury risk, and is perfect for moving down hallways or ramps.
- Use bungee cords or straps to secure the item.
- Always push rather than pull the dolly, and keep the load balanced.
Many furniture moving services offer dolly hire if you don’t want to buy one.
7. Secure Doors and Drawers with Plastic Wrap
Loose drawers and swinging doors can make an item harder to move and prone to damage. Use plastic stretch wrap or strong packing tape to hold them in place.
- Avoid using tape directly on painted or polished surfaces.
- Add a moving blanket underneath to prevent scratches.
This trick is especially helpful for sideboards, buffets, and entertainment units.
Slide Items Downstairs, Don’t Carry
If you’re dealing with stairs, carrying heavy furniture alone is extremely risky. Instead, use moving blankets or cardboard as a sliding ramp.
- Lay a thick blanket down the stairs.
- Gently ease the item onto the blanket and control its descent from behind.
If it’s too risky, call in furniture removalists who have stair-friendly gear like stair climbers or tracked dollies.
Protect Your Back: Bend Knees, Not Your Waist
Always lift with your legs, not your back. Squat down, keep the item close to your body, and rise with a straight back.
Golden rules:
- Never twist while lifting.
- Don’t try to lift more than you can comfortably handle.
- Take regular breaks.
Health experts and certified furniture movers follow this rule to prevent injuries, and you should too.
Leverage Gravity: Use Ramps and Inclines Smartly
Sometimes, it’s not about brute strength but working with gravity. If you have to move something down to a garage, basement, or loading area, a makeshift ramp can save you time and energy.
- Use sturdy plywood sheets or foldable ramps.
- Place a non-slip mat underneath for grip.
- Don’t rush, move slowly, and guide the furniture carefully.
Pro Tip: Before trying any of these methods, take a moment to assess your surroundings, the item’s weight, and your physical capacity. What might seem like a quick job can quickly turn into a dangerous one if attempted incorrectly.
When to Call Professional Furniture Removalists
While it’s great to be self-reliant, moving heavy furniture isn’t always a safe DIY task, especially when there are risks to your health, home, or the furniture itself. Knowing when to stop and call in professionals can make a world of difference.
You should seriously consider hiring removalists if:
- You’re dealing with oversized or fragile items like pianos, glass tables, or antique furniture.
- You live in a multi-storey home or apartment with stairs or elevators.
- You’re short on time or manpower and need a fast, safe move.
- There’s a risk of injury, or if you’ve had back issues before.
- You lack the proper tools, like dollies, ramps, or straps.
Hiring experts doesn’t just save your back—it also helps you avoid costly mistakes like dents in walls, scratched floors, or broken furniture. And while furniture removalists cost varies depending on the complexity of the job, it’s often worth it for the peace of mind and safety they provide. Removalists come prepared with the tools, trucks, and experience to handle even the trickiest items with care. Don’t take chances. When in doubt, reach out to the pros.
Final Tips for a Safe and Efficient Move
Before wrapping up your DIY furniture move, here are a few extra tips that even professional furniture removalists swear by:
Double-Check Your Route
Always do a final walkthrough to ensure the path is clear. Watch out for low ceilings, door stoppers, uneven floors, or anything that could trip or block you.
Lift Smart, Not Hard
Use momentum to your advantage. Small pushes and shifts are better than trying to lift something all at once. Take your time; rushing often leads to mistakes or injuries.
Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks
Moving is physical work. Stay hydrated and pace yourself, especially in warmer months.
Protect Floors and Corners
Place cardboard or towels on high-traffic paths to prevent scuffs and dents. Use corner protectors or foam to safeguard your walls and door frames.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
Even one extra person can make a huge difference. And if the job starts to feel overwhelming, professional help is just a call away. Remember, the goal isn’t just to move your furniture, it’s to do it safely, efficiently, and damage-free.
Conclusion
Moving heavy furniture by yourself is possible with the right planning, tools, and techniques. From sliders and lifting straps to smart moving hacks like disassembly and pivoting, each method helps reduce physical strain and protect your property. However, it’s important to know your limits. If a task feels unsafe or too complex, calling trusted furniture removalists can save you time, effort, and unnecessary risks. Whether you’re relocating across the city or simply rearranging a few rooms, Best Movers & Packers Perth is ready to make your move smooth, safe, and stress-free.
