How to Protect Furniture When Moving: Expert-Approved Ways to Prevent Damage

Moving is a big deal. There’s so much to think about—what to pack, what to toss, how to get everything from one place to another without it falling apart. One of the biggest concerns? Making sure your furniture gets to your new home without a scratch. Whether it’s a couch you saved up for or a dining table passed down from your grandparents, learning how to protect furniture when moving can save you from a lot of stress and expensive repairs.

At U & Me Moving and Storage, we’ve been helping people move across South Florida and beyond since 1923. We’ve seen it all—and we know exactly how to pack, wrap, and move furniture the right way. In this post, we’ll walk you through easy, expert-approved ways to keep your furniture safe.

Why Furniture Gets Damaged—and How to Avoid It

Let’s face it: moving furniture isn’t easy. It’s heavy, awkward, and can be tough to fit through doorways or down stairs. On top of that, it’s easy to bump, scratch, or drop something if you’re not careful. But most of this damage can be avoided with the right prep.

If you take a little extra time to wrap and pack things properly, you’ll avoid dents, broken legs, cracked glass, and scuffed finishes. And if you hire pros who know how to protect furniture when moving, you can relax knowing your stuff is in good hands.

Step-by-Step: How to Pack Furniture for Moving

If you’re wondering how to pack furniture for moving, you’re not alone. Packing furniture is one of the trickiest parts of the moving process. It’s heavy, awkward, and often valuable—so doing it right is important. The good news? You don’t need special tools or expensive equipment to get it done. With a little planning and the right materials, you can protect your furniture and make the move a whole lot easier.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through it.

1. Take It Apart (If You Can)

Start with the big stuff. Beds, dining tables, bookshelves, and sectionals often come apart—and that’s a good thing. Taking furniture apart makes it easier to carry, fit through doorways, and load onto the moving truck without damage.

What should I disassemble?

• Bed frames – Remove headboards, footboards, and side rails
• Tables – Take off the legs or separate the tabletop
• Bookshelves – Remove shelves or break down taller units
• Sectionals or modular couches – Detach sections or arms if they’re designed to come apart

What about small furniture? Even with smaller items, look for parts that stick out or could break, like legs or glass panels. Removing them may save you from a repair later on.

Helpful tip: Place all screws, bolts, and other hardware in a small zip-top bag. Then tape the bag securely to the piece it belongs to or label it with a marker so it doesn’t get lost. This makes reassembly way easier when you get to your new place.

2. Wrap It Right

Once your furniture is broken down, the next step is protecting each piece. Wrapping your furniture is one of the most important parts of learning how to pack furniture for moving because it prevents scratches, chips, and dents.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Furniture blankets or moving pads – These are thick and padded, made specifically for protecting furniture from scratches and impact during a move.
• Bubble wrap or foam sheets – Use these for delicate surfaces like glass, mirrors, or wooden legs. They add cushioning and keep things from shifting.
• Plastic stretch wrap – Helps hold blankets in place and keeps doors, drawers, and cushions secured.
• Cardboard sheets – Acts as a barrier between furniture items or between furniture and the wall of the moving truck.
• Packing tape and labels – Use tape to keep everything secure and labels to identify which item is which, especially if it’s disassembled.

Can I use household blankets or towels instead of moving pads? You can, but keep in mind that moving blankets are thicker and made to handle friction and pressure. Household items may not provide enough protection and can slip more easily.

Important note: Avoid putting plastic wrap directly on wood or leather furniture. It can trap moisture underneath, especially in humid weather, and cause warping or stains. Always use a layer of padding between the plastic and the furniture surface.

3. Protect Fragile Parts

Not all furniture is solid wood and cushions—some items have glass shelves, mirrors, or delicate trims. These parts need extra care.

What’s the safest way to move glass and mirrors?

• Wrap them first in bubble wrap
• Add a layer of cardboard or foam board
• Tape securely and label as “fragile”
• Keep them upright when loading into the truck (never flat—they’re more likely to break that way)

What about sharp corners or decorative details? Corners of tables, dressers, and bookshelves are some of the first places to get scuffed or chipped. Wrap these areas with extra foam or corner protectors. Then cover the rest of the piece with a blanket or wrap.

Tip: Use painter’s tape to mark the most fragile items so you or your movers know to handle them with extra care.

4. Keep Drawers and Doors Shut

Furniture with drawers, cabinets, or hinged parts can be tricky to move. If left unsecured, drawers can slide open or doors can swing out while carrying, causing damage or even injury.

What’s the best way to secure drawers and doors?

• Stretch wrap: This is perfect for holding drawers and doors in place without damaging the surface.
• Moving straps or bungee cords: These work well for heavier pieces like dressers and desks.
• Tape (with caution): If you use tape directly on wood or painted surfaces, choose painter’s tape or masking tape—it’s less likely to peel off the finish.

Should I empty the drawers first? Yes. Even if the drawer won’t open during the move, anything left inside can shift around and make the furniture harder to carry. Emptying drawers also makes the piece lighter and safer to handle.

Other Packing Tips to Keep in Mind

• Label everything: Especially disassembled pieces. You’ll thank yourself later when it’s time to put things back together.
• Keep similar parts together: Don’t mix up legs from different chairs or screws from different pieces. Keep each item’s parts packed with it.
• Think about weight: Heavy items should go on the bottom during loading. Don’t stack anything too heavy on top of wrapped furniture.
• Use protective gloves when lifting: This gives you a better grip and helps avoid fingerprints or smudges on polished surfaces.

When you take the time to pack your furniture the right way, you’re setting yourself up for a smoother, less stressful move. And if you’re not sure you want to do it all yourself, hiring professionals like U & Me Moving and Storage is a great option. Our experienced team knows how to protect furniture when moving—so you don’t have to worry.

Room-by-Room Tips for Protecting Furniture

Packing up your furniture can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re looking around at everything in your home. To make things easier—and to help you stay organized—it’s best to go room by room. This way, you won’t miss anything, and you can give each piece of furniture the attention it deserves.

Here’s how to protect furniture in each major area of your home.

Living Room

The living room is usually full of large, often expensive furniture. It’s also where you relax and unwind—so keeping these items in good condition is a top priority.

Sofas and Sectionals

Remove the cushions and set them aside. Wrap the main frame of the sofa in a moving blanket or pad to protect the fabric or leather from tears, scuffs, and dirt. Once wrapped, use plastic stretch wrap to hold the padding in place and keep the sofa clean.

Should I pack the cushions separately? Yes! Place them in large plastic bags or boxes. If you’re tight on space, you can even use the cushions as padding around other fragile items.

TV Stands or Media Consoles

These pieces often have glass doors, shelves, or decorative details. Remove any loose parts—like glass panels or adjustable shelves—and wrap them separately with bubble wrap and cardboard. Then wrap the frame of the unit with blankets or pads.

Do I need to empty it first? Absolutely. Take out all electronics, cords, DVDs, or décor. A lighter piece is easier to carry, and you won’t risk anything breaking inside during the move.

Coffee Tables

Coffee tables take a lot of wear and tear during a move if not wrapped properly. Focus on protecting the legs and corners—these are the parts most likely to get bumped. If your table has a glass top, remove it and wrap it separately in bubble wrap, then cover it with a layer of cardboard for extra protection.

Bedroom

The bedroom includes a mix of large, bulky furniture and smaller items that are easy to forget about. Here’s how to handle it all.

Beds and Headboards

Take your bed frame apart, including the headboard, footboard, and side rails. Wrap each piece in moving blankets or padding to protect against scratches or dents. Store all screws, bolts, and hardware in a labeled plastic bag and tape it to one of the wrapped pieces so nothing gets lost.

Do I need to wrap my mattress? Yes—use a mattress bag or heavy-duty plastic cover to keep it clean and dry. Mattresses can easily pick up dust, dirt, and stains if left unprotected during the move.

Dressers

You have two choices: either take the drawers out and move them separately, or leave them in and secure them with stretch wrap. If you leave the drawers in, make sure they’re empty or filled only with lightweight, non-breakable items like clothing.

What’s the best way to wrap a dresser? Use a moving pad or furniture blanket to wrap the outside. Secure the padding with stretch wrap or packing tape (just avoid putting tape directly on wood).

Nightstands

Nightstands might seem small, but they’re just as prone to damage as larger furniture. Wrap them up just like you would a dresser—protect the corners and secure any drawers or doors. These are often placed on top of other furniture in the truck, so padding is a must.

Dining Room

Dining room furniture tends to be large, heavy, and sometimes fragile. Think solid wood tables, upholstered chairs, and glass or china-filled cabinets.

Tables

Remove the legs, if possible, and wrap each one separately. This prevents them from snapping or cracking under pressure. For the tabletop, especially if it’s made of wood or glass, cover it in a thick blanket or pad. Then use stretch wrap to keep everything in place.

What if my table doesn’t come apart? Wrap the entire piece, and be extra careful during the move. Protect the legs and corners with foam or cardboard to absorb shock.

Chairs

If your chairs are stackable, you can stack a few—but make sure to place a towel or pad between each one to avoid scratching. For non-stackable or delicate chairs, wrap each one individually. Pay close attention to the legs and any decorative backs or arms.

What about upholstered chairs? Cover the fabric with plastic wrap or moving blankets. This will help keep the fabric clean and free from snags.

China Cabinets or Buffets

Remove everything from inside, including shelves and any decorative pieces. Wrap shelves—especially glass ones—on their own. Wrap the frame with furniture pads, and secure any doors or drawers so they don’t swing open.

Should I move these with the drawers inside? For heavy cabinets, it’s best to remove drawers to make them lighter and reduce the risk of damage. If you leave them in, wrap the entire piece securely and make sure the drawers can’t slide out

Home Office

The office often includes fragile equipment, awkward furniture, and items with lots of cords. Organization is key here.

Desks

Start by unplugging all cords and labeling them so you know where they go when it’s time to set everything up again. Wrap cords separately and place them in a labeled bag or box. If the desk comes apart, disassemble it and wrap each piece. For desks with drawers, empty them and secure them shut with stretch wrap.

What if my desk is a one-piece unit? Wrap the entire thing in furniture blankets, and pay extra attention to corners and legs. Use cardboard to add protection if needed.

Bookcases

Take out all books and shelves before moving. Wrap the frame with a moving blanket, and wrap each shelf individually. If the shelves are adjustable, use bubble wrap or foam to prevent scratches or cracks.

Can I leave the books inside? No, it makes the bookcase too heavy and could damage the frame during lifting or transport.

File Cabinets

If your cabinet has a lock, use it to keep drawers shut. If not, wrap the entire cabinet with stretch wrap to keep drawers from sliding out. Always empty the drawers unless the cabinet is specifically designed for moving with contents inside.

Do I need to remove hanging file folders? Yes. Loose files and folders can get damaged or lost. Pack them in a separate box and label everything clearly.

By going room by room and packing each item carefully, you’ll save yourself a lot of stress on moving day. Taking the extra time to wrap, secure, and protect your furniture can mean the difference between a smooth move and an expensive one.

Need help making sure your furniture gets to your new place in perfect condition? Reach out to U & Me Moving and Storage—we’ve been protecting homes (and furniture) since 1923.

Loading the Truck Without Breaking Anything

You’ve taken the time to pack everything carefully—but don’t stop there. How you load your furniture onto the moving truck is just as important as how you wrap it. One wrong move during loading can lead to scratches, broken legs, or worse. Whether you’re moving across town or across the state, these tips can help make sure your furniture makes the trip safely.

1. Put Heavy Items on the Bottom

Start by loading your heaviest furniture first—things like dressers, bookshelves, and couches. These heavy pieces should go on the floor of the truck to create a sturdy base for everything else. Putting lighter or fragile items underneath can crush them, even if they’re well-packed.

Why does the order matter? A solid base keeps the load balanced and prevents your belongings from shifting while the truck is in motion. If heavier items are stacked on top, they can fall or cause damage to other things below.

2. Distribute the Weight Evenly

Don’t just stack everything on one side of the truck. Spread the weight out from front to back and side to side. This helps keep the truck balanced, which is important not only for protecting your items but also for safe driving.

How do I know if it’s balanced? As you load, step back every so often and check the truck from all angles. If one side is clearly heavier or taller, shift things around until it looks (and feels) more even.

3. Use Tie-Down Straps or Ropes

Once you’ve placed your heavier items, secure them with tie-down straps, bungee cords, or rope. Most moving trucks have built-in anchor points on the walls just for this purpose.

What should I tie down? Secure large pieces like couches, wardrobes, or stacked boxes that might tip or slide. Tie-downs keep everything in place and prevent movement during sudden stops or sharp turns.

4. Add Padding Between Furniture

Even wrapped furniture can get scratched or chipped if it rubs up against other items. Use moving blankets, towels, or even couch cushions as padding between pieces. This helps protect surfaces and keeps everything snug.

Is this really necessary if everything’s already wrapped? Yes! Wrapping helps, but padding in between furniture adds a second layer of protection. It also helps fill gaps so items don’t shift.

Bonus Tips: Keep the Rest of Your Home Safe, Too

While you’re focused on protecting your furniture, don’t forget about your home—especially if you’re moving out of a rental or selling your place. A few simple steps can help avoid damage to floors, walls, and door frames.

1. Use Furniture Sliders or a Dolly

Dragging heavy items across wood or tile floors can cause scratches or cracks. Furniture sliders help large pieces glide without damage, and a dolly can take the weight off your back and your floors.

Do I need to buy sliders? Nope. You can rent them from most hardware stores or moving companies. In a pinch, use cardboard or thick towels under the legs of furniture.

2. Lay Down Floor Protection

Put down rugs, old blankets, or plastic floor runners in hallways and entryways. These high-traffic areas can easily get dirty or scuffed during the move.

Is this only for inside the house? No—you can also place rugs at the front door to wipe shoes off before going in and out of the truck. It helps keep your space cleaner.

3. Pad Door Frames and Stair Rails

Large furniture and tight spaces don’t mix. To avoid dents, chipped paint, or scratches, wrap door frames and stair railings with towels or foam padding. Use painter’s tape to secure the padding without leaving marks.

What about narrow hallways or tight corners? Go slow. Measure large pieces before moving them, and tilt or rotate furniture as needed to fit through. If it’s really tight, remove doors from their hinges to get extra space.

Do I Need Moving Insurance?

Even when you do everything right, accidents can still happen. A couch might get scratched, a glass shelf might crack, or a box might shift in the truck. That’s where moving insurance comes in.

What kind of insurance do moving companies offer?

Most professional movers include basic valuation coverage at no extra cost. But this only covers a small amount per pound—often around 60 cents per pound per item. That’s not much if your $1,200 dresser gets damaged.

What’s Full Value Protection?

Full Value Protection is an upgrade that covers the actual value of your belongings. If something gets lost or broken, the company will repair it, replace it, or reimburse you based on the current value.

Should I consider third-party insurance?

If you’re moving valuable or sentimental items, it’s a smart idea. Third-party insurance gives you more protection and peace of mind—especially if you’re doing a long-distance move or handling things yourself.

Bottom line: Even if you pack like a pro, loading and unloading come with risks. Taking the extra time to load carefully, secure everything properly, and protect your home can make a huge difference. And if you’re still feeling unsure, the team at U & Me Moving and Storage has your back.

Should You Hire Professional Movers?

If all of this sounds like a lot of work, you’re not wrong. Hiring professionals who already know how to protect furniture when moving can take a huge load off your shoulders—literally and figuratively.

At U & Me Moving and Storage, we’ve been helping people move for over 100 years. We treat every piece of furniture like it’s our own. That means careful handling, top-quality materials, and a team that knows what they’re doing.

Final Thoughts: Keep Your Furniture Safe and Your Move Stress-Free

Whether you’re heading across the street or across the country, knowing how to protect furniture when moving is key to a smooth, stress-free experience. Take time to plan, use the right materials, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Need a hand with your next move? U & Me Moving and Storage is here to help. We offer expert packing, moving, and storage services for homeowners and businesses across South Florida.

Click here to learn more about our moving services—or reach out to get a free quote today.