Recliners are deceptively heavy, oddly shaped, and usually come with that tricky footrest mechanism that can make the process a bit more complex than it appears at first glance. Curious how the professionals at TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® take on moving a recliner? In this step by step guide we will take you through the process our movers go through in order to move a recliner successfully.
What You Need
- Ratchet straps
To secure the chair in place during transit.
- Moving blankets
To protect your recliner from getting damaged.
- Wrapping material
To keep the moving blankets in place.
- Tape measure
To measure doorways and hallways.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Plan your route and measure doorways/hallways
The first thing you need to do is measure. Measure your recliner, and measure your doors and hallways. There’s nothing worse than getting halfway through a door only to realize your chair isn’t going to fit. You’ll need to make sure the recliner can pass smoothly through any tight spots, saving you from any frustrating pauses or risk of damaging the chair or walls.
- Disassemble if necessary
Here's a little trick most people don’t know—many recliners can actually be disassembled! You can pop the back right off, which makes the whole process a breeze. Usually, there is a lever or bracket located in the back that allows you to remove the top part of the recliner. Removing the back of the recliner makes it lighter, easier to maneuvre through doors, and significantly reduces the risk of scratching your walls. If you're lucky, you've got one of those models that were designed with moving in mind, but even if you don’t, a quick search will reveal that almost every recliner can be taken apart if needed. If you choose not to disassemble the recliner, make sure it’s in a locked position before you move it, and wrap it with a moving blanket or plastic wrap to protect it. Secure the blanket with tape or rope so nothing slips during the move.
- Safely move the recliner onto the moving truck
This is where all that measuring and planning pays off! If you’re going upstairs or downstairs, take extra care. Lift with your legs, not your back, and avoid sudden movements to prevent injuries or damage when moving your recliner. We recommend moving the bottom of the recliner first since it is heavier. After that, move the top part. Get help from a friend if needed. If the recliner does not come apart, you will want the help of a friend as it will be very hard to carry it by yourself.
- Secure the recliner with ratchet straps
Once you have the top and bottom part loaded onto the moving truck, secure the recliner with two or three ratchet straps. Ensure at least one strap secures the bottom and another secures the top. Use your best judgement to make sure the chair is fully secure.
- Reassemble your recliner
Once you’ve gotten the recliner into its new home, reassembly is usually pretty straightforward. If you took the back off, just pop it back on (those same brackets that helped you remove it will help guide it back into place). Adjust it, make sure it reclines properly, and voilà! Your chair is back, ready for you to collapse into after all that hard work. It’s also important to test the reclining mechanisms to ensure everything is working as it should. Double-check its positioning in the room to make sure it’s in the ideal spot—after all, you want maximum comfort!
By following these steps, you can move your recliner with ease. If you need professional assistance, don’t hesitate to contact TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® for expert moving services.
Thinking of Moving Yourself?
Think Again!
While moving yourself may seem less expensive... the costs add up.
Do-It-Yourself Moving Costs:
- Truck Rental
- Mileage
- Fuel Charge
- Additional Insurance
- Equipment Rental
(straps, rope, furniture pads, bungee cords, stretch wrap, dollies, etc.)
- Time
- Boxes & Packing Supplies
- Possible Damages
(belongings, relationships, & injuries)
- Recruiting Friends to Help
- Food & Beverages
- Chiropractor Visits
- Packing a Truck
- Learning How to Maneuver a Moving Truck
- Broken Promises
Call TWO MEN AND A TRUCK
We can move as much or as little as you need while fitting your schedule & budget!