A Complete Guide for Metro Vancouver Residents
Moving day comes with many challenges. One of the biggest is figuring out how to move large furniture like beds, dining tables, wardrobes, and sectional sofas. These items are heavy, bulky, and often too big to fit through doorways or down staircases.
If you are planning a move in Burnaby, Vancouver, Richmond, Surrey, or anywhere in the Greater Vancouver Area, you have probably asked yourself: Will the movers take my furniture apart for me?
The short answer is yes. Most professional moving companies do disassemble furniture as part of their service. However, there are important details you need to understand before your move. Not all furniture is treated the same way, and some items may cost extra or require special handling.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about furniture disassembly during a move. We will explain what movers will and will not take apart, how the process works, what it costs, and how you can prepare to make your move as smooth as possible.
Why Do Moving Companies Disassemble Furniture?
Before we get into the specifics, it helps to understand why furniture disassembly is such a common part of the moving process. There are several practical reasons why professional movers prefer to take large items apart before loading them onto the truck.
1. Navigating Tight Spaces
Many homes in Metro Vancouver present unique challenges for movers. High-rise condos in downtown Vancouver have narrow hallways and small elevators. Older homes in East Vancouver and Burnaby often have tight staircases and low ceilings. Townhouses in Surrey and Coquitlam may have awkward corners and split-level layouts.
A fully assembled king-size bed frame can be nearly impossible to maneuver through a standard 32-inch doorway. A large sectional sofa might not make it around a 90-degree corner in a hallway. By taking these items apart, movers can carry smaller, more manageable pieces that fit through tight spaces without causing damage to walls, door frames, or the furniture itself.
2. Preventing Damage to Furniture
Large furniture is vulnerable during a move. Table legs can snap if they catch on a doorframe. Glass panels in china cabinets can shatter from vibration. Headboards can get scratched or dented when carried through narrow spaces.
When movers disassemble furniture, they can wrap each component individually. The legs of a dining table get wrapped separately from the tabletop. The mirror on a dresser is removed and packed with special padding. This individual attention to each piece provides much better protection than trying to move a large, assembled item.
3. Maximizing Truck Space
Moving trucks have limited space, and every square foot matters. A fully assembled bed frame takes up a lot of room and creates awkward gaps that cannot be filled with boxes. When the same bed is disassembled, the flat pieces can be stacked against the truck wall, and the space in front can be used for other items.
This efficient use of space can mean the difference between needing one truck or two. For customers paying by the hour or by the truckload, better space utilization translates directly into cost savings.
4. Reducing Risk of Injury
Experienced movers are trained to lift heavy objects safely, but even experienced movers face risks when handling large, awkward furniture. A fully assembled armoire can weigh over 200 pounds and has an uneven weight distribution. Carrying such items up or down stairs increases the risk of back injuries, dropped items, and accidents.
Breaking furniture into smaller pieces makes each component lighter and easier to handle. This protects both the movers and your belongings.
5. Meeting Building Requirements
Many condo buildings in Metro Vancouver have strict rules about moving. Some require movers to use service elevators, which are often smaller than regular elevators. Others have narrow loading docks or specific time windows for moves. Disassembling large furniture helps movers work within these constraints and complete the move on schedule.
What Furniture Do Movers Typically Disassemble?
Certified moving companies are equipped to handle a wide range of furniture types. Here is a detailed look at the items that movers commonly disassemble, along with what the process involves for each.
1. Beds and Bed Frames
Beds are the most commonly disassembled furniture item during any move. This includes platform beds, sleigh beds, four-poster beds, and adjustable bed frames.
What movers do: First, they remove all bedding, pillows, and mattress toppers. The mattress and box spring are set aside and wrapped in protective covers. Then the movers remove the headboard, footboard, and side rails. Slats are bundled together and secured. All screws, bolts, and hardware are collected and placed in a labelled bag that is taped to one of the main components.
Time required: A standard queen or king bed takes about 10 to 15 minutes to disassemble and a similar amount of time to reassemble.
2. Dining Tables
Large dining tables, especially those with glass tops or extension leaves, almost always need to be taken apart for safe transport.
What movers do: Glass tops are carefully removed and wrapped in padded blankets or placed in special glass boxes. Table legs are unscrewed from the tabletop. Extension leaves are removed and wrapped separately. The tabletop is then wrapped in moving blankets and secured with stretch wrap.
Special considerations: Antique tables or tables with intricate woodwork may require extra care. Expert movers will often photograph these items before disassembly to ensure accurate reassembly.
3. Desks and Office Furniture
Home offices have become increasingly common, and movers regularly handle computer desks, L-shaped workstations, and standing desks.
What movers do: Keyboard trays and monitor arms are removed. L-shaped desks are separated into their component sections. Drawers are removed to reduce weight. Cable management systems are detached. Standing desks with electric motors require careful handling to protect the lifting mechanism.
Tip: Before the movers arrive, disconnect all computer equipment and cables. Take photos of your cable setup so you can easily reconnect everything at your new home.
4. Dressers, Vanities, and Armoires
These bedroom furniture pieces often have mirrors, glass doors, or other fragile components that need to be removed before transport.
What movers do: Mirrors attached to dressers are carefully removed and packed separately. All drawers are taken out to reduce weight and prevent them from sliding open during transport. Glass doors on armoires are removed and wrapped. Shelves inside wardrobes are taken out.
Important note: Movers will ask you to empty all drawers before they arrive. This makes the furniture lighter and protects your personal belongings.
5. Bookcases and Shelving Units
Tall bookcases pose a tipping hazard during transport. Professional furniture movers typically remove shelves and glass doors to make these items safer to move.
What movers do: All books and items are removed from the shelves. Adjustable shelves are taken out and wrapped. Glass doors or panels are removed and packed in protective materials. Very tall units may be laid on their side for transport.
6. Sectional Sofas and Large Couches
Sectional sofas are designed to come apart, which makes them easier to move. Even non-sectional sofas may have removable legs or backs.
What movers do: Sectional pieces are separated and wrapped individually. Removable cushions are bagged. Legs are unscrewed if they might catch on doorways. Some sofas have detachable backs or arms that can be removed to reduce width.
7. Entertainment Centres and TV Stands
Large entertainment centres with multiple components often need partial or complete disassembly.
What movers do: TVs are removed and packed separately. Glass shelves and doors are taken out. If the unit has multiple sections or towers, these are separated. Back panels that are only stapled on may be removed to reduce weight.
Quick Reference: Furniture Disassembly Guide
| Furniture | Disassembled? | Time Needed | Parts Removed |
| Bed Frames | Yes | 10-15 minutes | Headboard, rails, slats |
| Dining Tables | Yes (large) | 10-20 minutes | Legs, glass top, leaves |
| Dressers | Partial | 5-10 minutes | Mirror, drawers |
| Sectional Sofas | Yes | 5-10 minutes | Sections, legs |
| L-Shaped Desks | Yes | 15-25 minutes | Sections, drawers |
| IKEA Furniture | Sometimes | Varies | May charge extra |
What Furniture Do Movers NOT Disassemble?
While Experienced movers can handle most household furniture, certain items fall outside the scope of standard moving services. Understanding these limitations will help you plan and avoid surprises on moving day.
1. IKEA and Flat-Pack Furniture
This is one of the most common sources of confusion for customers. IKEA furniture and similar flat-pack items from stores like Wayfair, Structube, and Amazon require special consideration.
Why movers are cautious: IKEA furniture is made from particle board (also called pressed wood or MDF). While affordable and stylish, this material is not designed for repeated assembly and disassembly. The holes for screws and dowels can become stripped or enlarged after the first assembly. Cam locks and other connectors may not hold as tightly the second time around.
What this means for you: Some moving companies will disassemble IKEA furniture if asked, but they may ask you to sign a waiver releasing them from liability for damage. Others charge an extra fee for handling flat-pack items. A few companies refuse to touch IKEA furniture entirely.
Our recommendation: If you have IKEA furniture that needs to be disassembled, discuss it with your moving company well before moving day. Consider whether it might be more cost-effective to sell the furniture and buy new pieces after your move, especially for lower-cost items.
2. Wall-Mounted Items
Anything attached to walls, ceilings, or floors is typically the homeowner’s responsibility to remove before the movers arrive.
This includes: Wall-mounted TVs and brackets, floating shelves, curtain rods and blinds, wall-mounted desks, built-in shelving units, ceiling fans, light fixtures, and bathroom fixtures.
Why movers do not handle these: Removing wall-mounted items requires drilling, patching, or other modifications to the property. This falls outside the scope of furniture moving services and could create liability issues. If something is damaged during removal, the moving company does not want to be responsible.
What to do: Either remove these items yourself before moving day or hire a handyman. If you are renting, check with your landlord about their requirements for removing wall-mounted fixtures.
3. Cribs, Bunk Beds, and Children’s Furniture
Many moving companies have policies about children’s sleep furniture due to safety concerns.
Why movers are careful: Cribs and bunk beds must meet strict safety standards. If a crib is reassembled incorrectly, it could pose a serious risk to a child. Moving companies do not want to assume liability for the safety of these items.
What typically happens: Some movers will disassemble cribs but refuse to reassemble them, leaving that to the parents. Others may ask you to handle cribs and bunk beds entirely on your own. Always discuss this with your moving company before moving day.
4. Murphy Beds and Built-In Furniture
Murphy beds (wall beds), built-in wardrobes, and custom cabinetry are attached to the structure of the home and require specialized skills to remove.
Why they are excluded: These items are often considered part of the home rather than movable furniture. Removing them may require carpentry skills, and reinstallation at the new location may need to be customized for a different space.
What to do: If you need to move a Murphy bed, contact the manufacturer or a professional installer. They can advise whether the unit can be moved and what it would cost.
5. Specialty and High-Value Items
Certain items require specialized knowledge and equipment that go beyond standard moving services.
Examples include: Grand and baby grand pianos, pool tables, hot tubs and spas, grandfather clocks, antique furniture with delicate mechanisms, home gym equipment with complex assemblies, and large safes.
What to do: Ask your moving company if they have specialists for these items or if they can recommend a third-party service. At President Movers, we can connect you with trusted specialists for pianos, hot tubs, and other specialty items.
Is Furniture Disassembly Included in the Moving Cost?
One of the most important questions to ask when getting a moving cost estimate is whether furniture disassembly and reassembly are included. The answer varies depending on the type of move and the company you choose.
1. Full-Service Moves
With a full-service move, the moving company handles everything from packing to unpacking. Furniture disassembly and reassembly are almost always included in the package price.
What you get: The movers will disassemble all necessary furniture at your current home, transport it safely, and reassemble it at your new home. This is the most convenient option and eliminates stress on moving day.
2. Local Moves (Hourly Rate)
Most local moves in Metro Vancouver are priced by the hour. This typically includes a set number of movers, a truck, and basic services like handling, loading, and unloading furniture.
What this means for cost: Furniture disassembly is usually included in the hourly rate. However, the more furniture that needs to be taken apart and reassembled, the longer your move will take. This can increase your final bill. If you want to save money on an hourly move, consider disassembling some simple items yourself before the movers arrive.
3. Long-Distance Moves
Long-distance moves within British Columbia or across Canada are often priced by weight rather than by the hour. Furniture disassembly may or may not be included in the base quote.
What to ask: When getting quotes for a long-distance move, specifically ask whether disassembly and reassembly are included. Get this confirmed in writing. Some companies include it in the base price, while others list it as an add-on service.
4. Items That May Cost Extra
Even when basic furniture disassembly is included, some items may incur additional charges.
- IKEA and flat-pack furniture (extra time and liability concerns)
- Complex entertainment centres with multiple components
- Exercise equipment like treadmills and home gyms
- Antique furniture requires extra care
- Furniture that was not assembled correctly in the first place
Do Movers Reassemble Furniture at the New Home?
Yes. The general rule is that anything the movers disassemble at your old home, they will reassemble at your new home. This is standard practice for professional moving companies.
1. How Reassembly Works
When the movers finish unloading the truck at your new home, they will begin reassembling furniture. Beds are typically done first, so you have a place to sleep that night. Then they move on to dining tables, desks, and other items.
The movers will use the hardware they collected during disassembly. They will refer to any photos they took of the original setup. Once a piece is reassembled, they will place it in the room you designate and make sure it is stable.
2. What to Confirm Before Your Move
Never assume that reassembly is included. Before signing a contract with any reliable moving company, ask these questions:
- Is furniture reassembly included in the quoted price?
- Are there any items you will not reassemble?
- What happens if a part is missing or damaged during reassembly?
- Will you reassemble furniture if I disassemble it myself?
3. Exceptions to Reassembly
There are some situations where movers may disassemble an item but not reassemble it:
Cribs and bunk beds: For safety reasons, some companies prefer that parents reassemble children’s sleep furniture.
Wall-mounted items: If the movers removed a wall-mounted TV for packing, they may not remount it at the new location.
Damaged or missing parts: If a piece of hardware is lost or a component is damaged, the movers may not be able to complete the reassembly.
How to Prepare Your Furniture for Moving Day
Even though your movers will handle the disassembly, there are steps you can take to make the process faster, safer, and more efficient.
1. Communicate With Your Moving Company
A few days before your move, provide your moving company with a list of large furniture items that will need disassembly. This helps them plan the right amount of time and bring any specialized tools they might need.
Be sure to mention any unusual items such as waterbeds, adjustable beds with motors, or antique pieces that require extra care.
2. Empty All Furniture
Before the movers arrive, remove all items from inside your furniture. This includes:
- Clothing from dressers and wardrobes
- Books from bookcases
- Office supplies from desk drawers
- Dishes from china cabinets
- Electronics from entertainment centres
Empty furniture is lighter, easier to handle, and less likely to be damaged during the move.
3. Keep Hardware Organized
If you decide to disassemble any furniture yourself, organization is critical. Put all screws, bolts, cam locks, and other small parts in a ziplock bag. Label the bag with the name of the furniture piece. Then, tape the bag directly to one of the main components so it travels with the furniture and cannot get lost.
4. Take Photos Before Disassembly
Before any furniture is taken apart, use your phone to take several photos from different angles. Capture how the pieces fit together, where cables connect, and the orientation of any adjustable parts. These photos will be invaluable references when it is time to reassemble.
5. Clear the Work Area
Give the movers space to work safely. Move boxes, bags, and other items away from large furniture. Make sure there is a clear path from the furniture to the door. This helps the movers work quickly and reduces the risk of tripping or bumping into obstacles.
6. Prepare for Reassembly at the New Home
Before moving day, think about where each piece of furniture will go in your new home. Measure doorways and rooms to make sure large items will fit. Be present during unloading to direct the movers to the correct rooms. This saves time and prevents furniture from being reassembled in the wrong place.
Why Choose President Movers for Your Move?
At President Movers, we understand that your furniture represents a significant investment. Whether it is a cherished family heirloom or a brand-new bedroom set, we treat every piece with care and respect.
Furniture disassembly and reassembly are included in our standard service. You do not need to worry about taking apart your bed frame or dining table yourself. Our trained team arrives with all the tools needed to handle your furniture professionally.
What sets us apart:
- Experienced Team: Over 10 years of professional moving experience in Metro Vancouver
- Proper Equipment: We bring the right tools for beds, tables, desks, and more
- Protective Materials: Moving blankets, stretch wrap, and padding to keep furniture safe
- Fully Licensed and Insured: Your belongings are protected throughout the move
- Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees for standard furniture handling
- Available 7 Days a Week: We work around your schedule
Service Areas: We serve all of Metro Vancouver, including Burnaby, Vancouver, Richmond, Surrey, Coquitlam, New Westminster, North Vancouver, West Vancouver, Delta, Langley, Port Moody, Port Coquitlam, Maple Ridge, and surrounding areas. We also offer long-distance moves across British Columbia to destinations like Victoria, Nanaimo, Kelowna, Kamloops, and Prince George.
Ready to book your move? Call us at 604-900-5433 or visit presidentmovers.ca for a free, no-obligation quote.
Conclusion
Yes, most professional moving companies do disassemble furniture as part of their service. This includes beds, dining tables, desks, dressers, bookcases, and sectional sofas. Disassembly makes furniture easier to move through tight spaces, prevents damage during transport, and allows for more efficient use of truck space.
However, there are exceptions. IKEA and flat-pack furniture may require extra fees or waivers. Wall-mounted items, cribs, and specialty pieces like pianos typically fall outside standard moving services. Always discuss your specific furniture needs with your moving company before moving day to avoid surprises.
By understanding what Furniture movers will and will not handle, you can plan your move more effectively, avoid unexpected costs, and ensure that your furniture arrives safely at your new home.
When you choose President Movers, you get a team that takes pride in handling your furniture with care. From disassembly to transport to reassembly, we manage every step of the process so you can focus on settling into your new space.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do movers charge extra for furniture disassembly?
At President Movers, basic furniture disassembly and reassembly for standard items like beds, tables, and desks are included in our service. Some companies charge extra for complex items like IKEA furniture, exercise equipment, or entertainment centres. Always ask for a detailed quote that specifies what is included.
2. Will movers disassemble IKEA furniture?
Some moving companies will disassemble IKEA furniture, but many are cautious due to the risk of damage to particleboard materials. You may be asked to sign a waiver or pay an additional fee. Discuss your IKEA furniture with your movers well before moving day.
3. Should I disassemble furniture myself to save money?
For hourly moves, disassembling some furniture yourself can reduce the total time and cost. However, make sure you have the right tools and keep all hardware organized in labelled bags. For flat-rate or full-service moves, there is usually no cost advantage to doing it yourself.
4. Will movers put my bed together at the new house?
Yes. Professional movers will reassemble anything they disassembled. Beds are typically done first, so you have a place to sleep on moving night. Make sure to confirm reassembly is included when you book your move.
5. What areas does President Movers serve?
We serve all of Metro Vancouver, including Burnaby, Vancouver, Richmond, Surrey, Coquitlam, New Westminster, North Vancouver, West Vancouver, Delta, Langley, Port Moody, Port Coquitlam, and Maple Ridge. We also provide long-distance moving services across British Columbia.