All guides

Preparing your move

How to measure furniture, doors and lifts before moving

Accurate dimensions show whether a wardrobe or sofa will pass through doors, stair turns and the lift and fit safely into the van. Measure the furniture and the narrowest point along the complete carrying route.

Carrying a cabinet during a real transport job
01

Measure every item in three directions

Record the width, height and depth at the widest points. For a sofa, include the arms and the highest part of the back. For a wardrobe, also note the dimensions after any possible dismantling. Measure again with protective wrapping if it will add noticeable thickness.

02

Find the narrowest point on the route

Measure the clear width and height of entrance and apartment doors, corridors and the space around corners. On stairs, check flight width, headroom, landing dimensions and the room available to turn a long item.

03

Measure more than the lift door

Record the lift door width and height together with the internal width, depth and height of the car. Check that the door opens fully and that there is enough space outside the lift to rotate the furniture.

04

Allow room to turn the item

Furniture narrower than a doorway may still not pass if it cannot be stood on its side or rotated before entering. Photos and a short video of the complete route help identify these restrictions before the crew arrives.

05

When to plan dismantling

If a gap is only slightly larger than the furniture, check whether legs, doors, shelves or arms can be removed. Dismantling must be agreed before the booking. It may not be suitable for old, glued or already damaged furniture.

Good to know
  • Record the width, height and depth of every large item
  • Measure door openings, landings and the inside of the lift
  • Allow for protective wrapping and turning space
  • Send dimensions and access photos with your request

Frequently asked questions

Which furniture dimensions should I send?

Width, height and depth at the widest points, preferably including wrapping. Add an approximate weight for heavy items.

What should I measure in a lift?

The door width and height, internal width, depth and height, and the turning space outside the lift.

Are photos enough?

Photos help, but exact measurements are more reliable. Send both dimensions and images of the complete route to the parking point.

Wrapped furnitureDelivery vanOffice moving team
Real jobsView gallery

Planning a similar job?

Contact us for a price

Get a quote