Moving furniture without proper protection can lead to scratches, dents, and expensive damage. Whether you’re moving locally within Ottawa or across the country, protecting your furniture is essential. If you’re working with experienced furniture movers in Ottawa, proper techniques will also help reduce their handling time and your final bill.
Essential Packing Materials for Furniture Protection
Before you begin packing, gather these materials:
- Furniture blankets and moving pads
- Stretch wrap and plastic sheeting
- Heavy-duty packing tape
- Furniture sliders and moving dollies
- Corrugated cardboard sheets
- Bubble wrap and foam corner protectors
- Mattress bags and sofa covers
- Ratcheting straps and bungee cords
- Ziplock bags for storing hardware
- Need help sourcing them? Here’s a list of reliable moving supplies in Ottawa to get started.
Step-by-Step Guide to Protect Furniture While Moving
1. Disassemble Large Furniture
Break down large items to make them easier and safer to move.
- Remove legs from tables and sofas
- Take apart bed frames and headboards
- Unscrew handles, knobs, or fragile attachments
- Place all screws and bolts into clearly labeled ziplock bags and tape them to the furniture
2. Clean and Dry All Surfaces
Dirt or moisture can cause scratches and mildew during transit.
- Wipe down all surfaces with a microfiber cloth
- Use furniture-safe cleaners on fabric or wood
- Allow to dry completely before wrapping
3. Wrap Furniture with the Right Materials
If you’re not confident in doing this yourself, consider hiring a professional packing service in Ottawa to ensure it’s done right.
Wood Furniture:
- Cover with moving blankets
- Add stretch wrap over the blanket to hold it in place
- Never apply tape directly to wood
Upholstered Furniture:
- Use plastic furniture covers or thick plastic sheeting
- Wrap armrests with bubble wrap
- Apply stretch wrap over the plastic for added security
Glass or Mirrors:
- Cover with cardboard
- Add bubble wrap around the cardboard
- Tape securely and mark as “Fragile” with arrows
4. Use Padding and Corner Protectors
Corners are especially prone to damage.
- Apply foam guards to desks, tables, and dressers
- Reinforce with extra layers of bubble wrap or cardboard
5. Load the Moving Truck Properly
How you load matters just as much as how you pack. If you’re doing a long-haul move, long-distance movers in Ottawa will follow these best practices to prevent in-transit damage.
- Load heavy furniture first (couches, dressers, tables)
- Use ratchet straps to secure furniture to truck walls
- Keep mattresses and mirrors upright
- Avoid stacking anything on soft or upholstered items
- Fill gaps with pillows, soft boxes, or blankets to prevent shifting
Tips for Specific Furniture Types
Sofas and Couches:
- Remove cushions and pack separately
- Use plastic covers or sofa bags
- Do not place heavy items on top of them
Mattresses:
- Always place in a mattress bag
- Store vertically inside the truck to save space
Desks and Dressers:
- Remove drawers and pack contents separately
- Wrap the exterior with thick blankets and secure with wrap
- Add cardboard between straps and surfaces to avoid dents
Dining Tables and Chairs:
- Disassemble table legs
- Wrap chairs in pairs using stretch wrap
- Use foam padding on all corners and edges
Avoid These Mistakes
Even some experienced homeowners still make common moving day errors. Be sure to avoid these common moving day mistakes:
- Using weak plastic bags
- Taping directly on wood or fabric
- Poor truck loading
- Forgetting to label hardware
- Not allowing time for cleaning or drying
If You Need Storage After the Move
Some clients require storage for a few days or weeks. Consider using storage solutions in Ottawa that are climate-controlled and secure.
- Use pallets to elevate items
- Avoid covering furniture in airtight plastic
- Keep space between items for airflow
- Label everything clearly
Why Hire Professional Movers for Furniture Protection
Reputable movers bring expertise and tools that most homeowners lack. For expert-level service, check out our guide to choosing the best moving company.
- Industrial-grade moving blankets and straps
- Trained in safe lifting and loading
- Licensed and insured for peace of mind
- Faster and more efficient execution
Budgeting Considerations
If you’re weighing DIY vs pro help, here’s a breakdown of the cost to hire movers in Ottawa to help you budget accurately.
Pro Packing Tips From the Experts
Want to take your packing game to the next level? Discover expert-approved packing strategies from the professionals at Prestige Moving.
Final Checklist
Once everything’s wrapped and ready:
- Furniture disassembled
- Hardware labeled
- Surfaces cleaned and dry
- Wrapped with correct materials
- Corners protected
- Items loaded securely
After your move, reference this helpful post-move checklist to get settled quickly.
Conclusion
Protecting your furniture during a move comes down to materials, method, and care. With the right steps — and the right moving partner — you’ll keep your valuable items safe from damage. Need help? Prestige Moving has helped thousands pack, protect, and transport their homes safely across Ottawa and beyond.