How to Move a Couch: Your Complete Guide

Figuring out how to move a couch is the real challenge when relocating. 

Couches and recliners are heavy, awkwardly shaped, and often wider than narrow doorways or tight hallways. 

Without the proper lifting technique, you could damage your couch, scratch your door frame, or worse, injure yourself during heavy lifting.

The real challenge usually happens when you’re trying to angle a large couch through tight hallways, sharp corners, or during a condo move due to some small elevators. 

These situations make it harder to maneuver without bumping into walls or getting stuck halfway through. 

But don’t stress.

With the right equipment, proper techniques, and a step-by-step guide, you can safely get your couch out of your living room.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about moving a couch, whether you’re doing it yourself or thinking about hiring professional movers.

Moving Supplies and Equipment You’ll Need

Before you even think about dragging that heavy couch across your living space, make sure you have the right materials. 

Having the proper moving supplies and equipment not only makes the job easier but also prevents moving injuries and damage.

Here’s your moving-day toolkit and supplies for moving your couch:

• Measuring Tape
• Moving Blankets
• Furniture Sliders 
• Flat Furniture Dolly or Utility Dolly (Hand Truck)
• Furniture Moving Straps
• Tool Set (Screwdrivers, Allen Wrenches, Pliers)
• Tie Down Straps
• Heavy-Duty Plastic Wrap
• Bubble Wrap
• Furniture Pads

14 Steps for Moving a Couch Safely 

Now that you’ve gathered your supplies, let’s proceed to the whole process of moving your couch.

Here’s the complete guide on how to move a couch from start to finish.

Step 1: Make a Plan

Before you start lifting, you need a clear plan. This step is the foundation of the entire moving process.

Identify the Type of Couch You Have

Not all couches move the same way, so it’s essential to know the type of couch you have. 

Is it a sectional, a recliner, a loveseat, or a sleeper sofa? Each type of couch moves differently. 

For example, a sleeper sofa is much heavier because of the built-in bed, while a sectional often comes in detachable parts that are easier to separate. 

Knowing your couch type helps you plan the moving process and prepare the right tools.

Check the Couch’s Weight

A small loveseat can sometimes be carried with two people, but a heavy couch usually requires moving equipment like furniture moving straps and a moving dolly. 

By identifying your couch’s weight, you can choose the best way to carry or move it.

Check Your Living Room Layout

Look at the space around you. Will the couch fit through the hallway or the door frame? Do you need to tilt it at an angle? Knowing this ahead of time prevents frustration later.

Plan Each Stage of the Moving Process 

Consider every moving process, such as disassembling, wrapping your couch, lifting, and loading it into the moving truck. A good plan helps you avoid last-minute moving problems.

Step 2: Check if Your Couch is in Good Shape

Not every couch is worth the effort. Before undertaking the heavy lifting, consider whether it makes sense to bring it to your new place.

Check the Couch’s Condition

Ask yourself: “Is the couch still sturdy and comfortable? Or is it sagging, torn, or outdated?” A worn-out couch may not be worth the cost and effort of moving.

Compare Moving Cost vs. Buying New

Use a moving cost calculator to see how much it will cost to bring the couch. 

For local moves, costs may be manageable, but long-distance moves can be more expensive, especially when transporting large items like couches, a pool table, a hot tub, or a fish tank. 

If the cost of moving exceeds the value of the items, consider selling, donating, or discarding them before moving.

Consider the Dimensions of Your New Space

Measure the space in your new home. Will the couch fit through the new doorway or sit comfortably in the living room? 

If not, it’s better to dispose of old furniture before moving and avoid the hassle of transporting something you can’t use.

Step 3: Clean the Couch

Cleaning may sound small, but it matters for both protection and hygiene. Dust and crumbs can spread all over during the moving process.

Cleaning now gives you a fresh start in your new space and ties in well with decluttering before moving, saving you time when unpacking.

Vacuum Thoroughly

Use a vacuum to clean between the cushions, under the seats, and along the seams. This keeps pests and dirt from tagging along. Make sure to thoroughly clean the fabric before moving or storing it in a storage unit. 

Wipe Surfaces

For fabric couches, use a damp cloth and mild cleaner. For leather, always use a leather-safe solution to prevent cracks or stains.

Empty Hidden Storage

Some couches have hidden storage compartments for blankets or remotes. Empty everything before wrapping to avoid damage or extra weight.

Step 4: Measuring Dimensions

This is where your tape measure shines. Measuring before moving is the only way to avoid getting stuck in a narrow hallway or tight doorway. 

The typical three-seat sofa measures about 84 inches in width, 40 inches in depth, and 33 inches in height, while a loveseat is usually smaller at around 52 inches wide, 33 inches deep, and 33 inches high.

These are just averages; couch sizes vary depending on the style and design, which is why measuring them beforehand helps you identify the access points. 

Use a Measuring Tape 

Record the dimensions of the couch: height, width, and length. Double-check these numbers so you don’t run into surprises on moving day. Pay attention to detachable parts. Sometimes removing the backrest or legs changes the size enough to fit through tight spaces.

Measure Your Doorways and Stairwells

Measure the door frame, stairwell, and hallways your couch will pass through. Compare those numbers with the dimensions of the couch.

If your couch is larger, you may need to angle it or use the L-shape trick.

For narrow spaces, you can temporarily remove doors to gain a few extra inches. This small step often makes a big difference when moving large furniture.

Step 5: Remove Cushions and Other Parts

A couch becomes much easier to move when it’s broken down into smaller and lighter pieces. 

Detaching removable parts first not only lightens the load but also gives you more clearance. 

Even saving just a few inches of width can make all the difference when trying to squeeze through a tight doorway or navigate narrow spaces when moving into an apartment.

Start with the obvious pieces. Place cushions and pillows in large plastic bags or sturdy moving boxes.

Many couches are designed with detachable arms, headrests, or recliner backs. 

If your model allows it, detach the following parts while applying the instructions in the couch manual, which will also tell you whether the couch can be moved in one piece or needs to be taken apart. 

Step 6: Disassemble Your Couch

When possible, take apart larger sections of the couch. 

Disassembling furniture may seem like extra work, but it can save you from getting stuck halfway through a narrow hallway with a bulky item that won’t budge.

If you’re unsure or find this step challenging, you can always hire professional movers to disassemble furniture for you and help with your move.

Start With the Legs

Most couches have legs that can be unscrewed. Unscrew wooden or metal legs using your tool set. Store screws and bolts in labelled boxes or bags so you can easily reassemble later.

Separate Sections

If you have a sectional sofa, break it into smaller units. For recliners, detach the backrests if the design allows. This will make your couch lighter and easier to maneuver in tight spaces.

Step 7: Wrap the Couch

Protecting your couch is just as crucial as moving it. Using the right packing materials keeps your couch safe from scratches, dust, and tears. 

Start with moving blankets. Cover the entire couch so the fabric or leather doesn’t rub against walls or door frames. Secure the blankets with plastic wrap or stretch wrap. This holds the padding in place during heavy lifting.

Use furniture pads around sharp edges or corners for extra protection.

Pro Tip:

For leather or delicate upholstered couches, avoid placing plastic directly on the surface. First, cover the couch with a moving blanket, then wrap it with plastic. This is because direct contact with plastic can trap heat and lead to damage.

Step 8: Put Cushions, Pillows, and Throw Blankets in a Bag

Cushions, pillows, and detachable arms should be handled separately to make the couch lighter and easier to move.

Place cushions in large plastic bags to keep them clean. If you prefer, wrap them with furniture pads for more protection. 

Keep hardware, screws, or bolts in labeled plastic bags. Securely tape them to the bottom of the couch or pack them in a small box.

To stay organized, follow best practices on labeling moving boxes so you’ll know exactly which pieces belong to your couch when setting up in your new home.

Step 9: Clear the Path for Moving

Never start heavy lifting until your path is ready. A clear path not only protects your couch but also prevents accidents that can damage your home or cause injuries.

Do a walk-through from the couch to the moving truck. Remove rugs, shoes, or other small items that could cause tripping.

If you’re moving across hardwood or tile floors, use floor protectors, old rugs, or cardboard sheets along the path to shield the floors and prevent scratches and scuffs.

This not only helps protect your couch or floor from damage but also ensures you complete your move-out cleaning to recover your security deposit.  

If you have bulky items such as chairs or tables in the way, move them aside. Check the width of staircases and hallways.

If you live in an apartment building, remember that movers sometimes charge extra fees for using stairs. If needed, protect your door frames and walls with furniture pads to prevent damage and scratches. 

Step 10: Move the Couch to the Moving Truck

There are three main ways to move a couch out of your home:

1. Using Furniture Dolly

A flat furniture dolly makes the job much easier. 

Carefully lift the couch onto the dolly and secure it with rope or moving straps so it doesn’t slip off. 

Once secured, simply roll the couch out of the house and toward the moving truck. This prevents dragging and reduces the chances of scratching floors.

2. Using Furniture Sliders

If you don’t have a dolly, furniture sliders are another safe option. Place sliders under each leg of the couch. 

Then, gently push the couch across hardwood, tile, or carpet without worrying about floor damage. Sliders are ideal for tight spaces where wheels may not fit.

3. Carrying it Yourself (The L-Shape Trick)

When doorways and hallways are narrow, use the L-shape trick. Tilt the couch upright and angle it into an “L” position. 

This allows you to pivot the couch through tight door frames. This method usually requires at least two people, so moving help is highly recommended.

Safety tips: 

Check our guide on how to move safely and prevent injuries during moving day.

Step 11: Load the Couch Into the Truck

By the time your couch reaches the truck, the most challenging part, which is getting it out of the house, is over. 

Now, the challenge is transferring it safely onto the truck without injury or damage. 

Whether you rented a moving truck or hired movers to load it, this step calls for patience, teamwork, and the right equipment.

Use the Ramp the Right Way

Most rental moving trucks come with a loading ramp. 

Walk the couch up the ramp slowly, keeping one person at the top pulling and another at the bottom pushing. Keep the sofa balanced so it doesn’t tilt or slide backward.

Teamwork Is Key

A heavy couch is not something you want to manage alone. Assign roles: one person guides, another lifts, and a third steadies if available. Communicate clearly with simple commands.

Step 12: Secure the Couch Inside the Moving Truck

Once the couch is inside the moving truck, place it against the wall to keep it stable. 

Use rope, straps, or bungee cords to secure the couch tightly so it doesn’t slide during transport. 

Adding furniture pads or moving blankets between the couch and the truck wall will help protect the fabric from scratches and dirt.

Step 13: Unload the Couch at the New House

When you arrive at your new home, unload the couch carefully. 

If you used straps, untie them slowly so the couch doesn’t tip. Use a moving dolly or sliders again to guide it into the house without damaging the floors or walls.

If the doorway is small, repeat the L-shape trick to angle it inside. Always keep a firm grip and communicate with your moving partner.

Step 14: Position the Couch in its New Spot

After moving the couch inside, place it in the room where it belongs before unpacking the rest of your furniture. This way, you won’t have to move heavy furniture around multiple times.

Adjust the placement until it’s aligned with other furniture, then remove any protective covers or blankets.

Finally, check that all legs are firmly on the ground, cushions are in place, and there’s no damage from the move.

DIY Couch Moving vs. Hiring Professional Movers

When it comes to moving your couch, you have two main options: doing it yourself or hiring professional movers. 

Each option has clear advantages and disadvantages depending on your budget, the size of your couch, and the layout of your home.

Here’s the comparison table of these two moving choices:

If your couch is light, your home has wide doorways, and you have access to moving equipment, DIY couch moving can save you money. 

But if your couch is extremely heavy, your hallways are tight, or you want to avoid the risk of injury and damage, hiring professional movers is the safer option.

Final Thoughts

Moving a couch involves strength and strategy. Every moving step matters. Whether you go the DIY route or hire professional movers, preparation is the key to a smooth and stress-free move.

Professional movers can be a game-changer if you’re dealing with a heavy sectional, tight staircases, or simply want peace of mind. 

Just be sure to ask the right questions before hiring movers. While it may be tempting to go with the cheapest option, the risk of hiring cheap movers could cost you more in damages or stress. 

At the end of the day, the safest way to move your couch depends on your priorities: saving money vs. saving time and effort.

If you’re ready to protect your furniture, avoid injuries, and ensure your couch arrives safely in your new home, consider reaching out to expert movers near you.

FAQ

1. Should I disassemble my couch before moving it?

Yes, if possible. Removing legs, cushions, or detachable sections can reduce weight and make it easier to maneuver through doorways and hallways. 

Even a few extra inches of clearance can make all the difference.

2. How much does it cost to move my couch?

On average, prices can range from as low as $200 to $400, and in more complex cases, such as large couches or long-distance moves, they may reach $650 or more.

The final cost depends on factors like the distance of your move, the size and weight of the couch, and how many movers are needed. Stairs, tight hallways, or obstacles can also increase the price since movers sometimes charge extra for difficult access.

3. Is it really necessary to hire movers to move my couch?

Not always. If your couch is lightweight, your home has wide doorways, and you have the right moving supplies and equipment, you can manage a DIY move.

However, if your couch is extremely heavy, you live in a walk-up apartment, or want to avoid injuries, hiring movers is often worth it. Professional movers bring experience, equipment, and even have moving insurance to protect your belongings.

4. How do I get a couch through the door?

The L-shape trick works best: tilt the couch upright and angle it into an “L” to pivot through tight door frames. If it still doesn’t fit, try removing the legs, taking the door off its hinges, or disassembling detachable sections.

5. What if my couch doesn’t fit through the door?

You still have options, such as temporarily removing the doors to gain a few extra inches, rotating the couch vertically if ceilings permit, or disassembling larger parts like arms, legs, or brackets. As a last resort, some movers offer hoisting services through windows or balconies. This often comes with extra cost, so clarify this when you ask movers about their services.