Moving can be quite an adventure, but with it comes a multitude of questions. One of which commonly arises is: should you empty drawers when moving? The short answer is: it depends. Factors such as the type of furniture, the distance of the move, the weight and contents of the drawers, and the policies of professional movers all come into play. To help you make an informed decision, we've compiled a detailed guide to unpack this query.
A Drawer-by-Drawer Approach
Let's delve into some of the factors that you should consider when deciding whether to empty drawers or not.
Type of Furniture
Firstly, consider the type of furniture. Flat-pack items such as IKEA furniture aren't designed to withstand the weight of being moved with items inside, so it's wise to empty these. Similarly, antiques or items with loose or damaged joints may be better off being cleared. Sturdy, well-built furniture like solid wood chests can usually handle the move with contents inside.
It's also important to consider if your furniture has castors. While these make it easier to manoeuvre pieces around your home, they may not stand up well to the rigours of a move, especially if the drawers are full.
Distance of the Move
Moving within Sheffield? You might get away with leaving items in your drawers. However, if you're relocating from Sheffield to London, the longer journey and more extensive handling increase the risk of damage to your furniture if drawers are full.
Weight and Contents of the Drawers
One of the professional movers' guidelines suggests that if the contents are light and non-fragile – think clothing, linen, or soft toys – it may be safe to leave them in the drawers. Heavy items or fragile belongings like books, electronics, or glassware should be packed separately.
Remember, the safety of your belongings is paramount. Our ultimate moving house checklist provides more packing tips to ensure your belongings reach your new home safely.
Professional Movers' Policies
Many professional movers prefer to handle empty furniture. This is not only for their safety but also to ensure the security of your items. For example, our team offering Man and Van services in Manchester requires all furniture to be empty before they move it.
On the other hand, some companies offer furniture moving services with the option of leaving drawers filled, provided they aren't overloaded or filled with fragile or valuable items. It’s always best to check with your chosen removal company beforehand to ensure you're abiding by their policies.
Empty or Not to Empty: Making the Decision
So, when it comes to the big question of whether you should empty drawers when moving, the key is to assess each piece of furniture individually. Consider the type, age and condition of the furniture, the weight and nature of its contents, and the distance and mode of your move.
If you're still unsure, err on the side of caution and empty your drawers. Remember, a successful, stress-free move relies on careful planning and preparation. Why not check out our guide on best practices and helpful tips when dismantling items prior to a house move for more useful advice?
In summary, while it might seem like a time-saver to leave drawers filled, it's not always the best choice. It's important to ensure the safety and integrity of your belongings, and sometimes, that means packing items separately and securely.
Relocating should be an exciting new chapter in your life, not a time filled with worry over whether your possessions will make it to your new home safely. To make your move as smooth as possible, consider hiring professional movers like our house removals team in Nottingham, who can guide you through the process and ensure everything arrives safely at your new home.
Lastly, don't forget that moving house is a wonderful opportunity for a clear out. So, whether you decide to empty your drawers or not, use this time to declutter and get rid of any items you no longer need or want. For tips on how to do this effectively, have a look at our guide on what to do with unwanted items when moving house. Happy moving!