Move More: Practical Advice for Moving Sofas and Other Furniture

Moving a couch feels like a nightmare, right? You’re dragging, measuring, and praying it won’t hit the wall. The good news is you don’t need a professional crew for most jobs. With a few smart steps, you can slide a sofa through tight spaces, stash it in a storage unit, or even reposition it for a fresh look.

Measure Twice, Move Once

Before you lift anything, grab a tape measure and note three things: the couch’s length, width, and height. Then, measure the doorways, hallways, and any corners you’ll pass. If the couch is 80 inches long and your hallway is only 70 inches, you’ll need a plan—usually turning the couch onto its side or removing the legs.

Most corner issues are solved by tilting the sofa onto its edge and angling it toward the corner. Walk the path with the couch in hand (or use a friend to hold it) and see where the widest point meets the narrowest space. Adjust the tilt until the clearance works.

Protect, Pad, and Pull

Throw a moving blanket or old sheet over the couch to guard against scratches. For extra grip, slide a furniture dolly under the frame. If the couch is too heavy for a dolly, use a pair of sturdy sliders—plastic or felt—under each leg. They let you push the sofa across carpet or hardwood without damaging the floor.

When you reach a corner, stop, lift the front slightly, and swing the back around. It’s easier if at least one person lifts while the other guides. Communicate—simple cues like “up,” “turn,” and “slow” keep everyone on the same page.

Storing a Couch in Small Spaces

Thinking about a 10x10 storage unit? Most standard three‑seat sofas (around 80 inches long) will fit, but you need to account for the unit’s door width and interior height. Remove removable parts—like cushions and legs—to save space. Stack the cushions on top of the frame and cover everything with a breathable slipcover to keep dust out.

If the unit isn’t tall enough, try laying the couch on its side. This reduces height but increases width, so double‑check the unit’s dimensions again. A quick tip: place a piece of cardboard under the frame to keep it off the concrete floor and prevent moisture damage.

Avoid Common Moving Mishaps

Don’t rush. A hurried move often ends with scratched wood, torn fabric, or a bruised back. Take short breaks if the couch feels heavy. Keep a clear path—remove rugs, coffee tables, and décor that could cause trips.

Another mistake is forgetting the weight limit of your equipment. Most hand trucks support 250‑300 lb; a large sectional can weigh more. If in doubt, recruit extra help or rent a furniture dolly with a higher capacity.

With these straightforward steps—measure, protect, tilt, and communicate—you’ll move more confidently and keep your sofa looking great. Next time you’re rearranging the living room or moving to a new place, remember: a little preparation saves time, effort, and costly repairs.