Why the Size of Stairs and Doors Matters When Moving Furniture

When moving into a new home or apartment, one of the most commonly overlooked challenges is whether your furniture will actually fit through the doors, stairs, or lifts. Before buying new furniture or hiring a removals company, it’s important to measure these spaces to avoid unnecessary stress on moving day.

Large items like sofas, wardrobes, dining tables, and beds can be difficult to manoeuvre through tight spaces, and in some cases, alternative solutions such as removing a window or dismantling furniture may be required. In this guide, we’ll explore the key factors to consider and how to make moving furniture into your new home as smooth as possible.

1. Measure Before You Move

The first step in planning your house move is to measure everything—not just your furniture but also the spaces they need to pass through, including:

• Front and interior doorways
• Hallways and narrow passages
• Staircases, especially those with tight turns
• Lift dimensions (if applicable)

It’s easy to assume that if a piece of furniture fit into your previous home, it will fit into the new one. However, different homes have different layouts, and older houses often have narrower doorways and steeper stairs.

2. Doorways and Entry Points

Before moving day, check whether your furniture will fit through external and internal doors. Some modern furniture, particularly large corner sofas, king-sized beds, and solid wood wardrobes, may be too big for standard door frames.

What to Do If Your Furniture Is Too Big for the Door?

• Remove the door: Taking the door off its hinges can provide an extra inch or two of clearance.
• Tilt or rotate the furniture: Sometimes, changing the angle of the furniture while moving it through the doorway can help.
• Dismantle furniture: If possible, remove sofa legs, bed frames, or table legs to make them easier to manoeuvre.

3. Staircases and Tight Turns

The width of your stairs might not always be an issue, but if there are sharp turns, narrow steps, or low ceilings, moving furniture up and down can be extremely challenging. Some staircases have bannisters or railings that restrict space even further.

How to Handle Stairs When Moving Large Items?

• Remove the banister (if necessary): If your staircase has a removable handrail, taking it off can provide extra space.
• Use moving blankets and straps: Professional movers use special techniques and tools to safely navigate stairs without damaging walls or furniture.
• Consider an alternative route: If the stairs are too tight, check if the furniture can be moved through a window or balcony instead.

4. Using a Window for Larger Furniture

In extreme cases, when furniture is too large for the door or stairs, you may need to remove a window to bring it inside. This is more common in apartment buildings, loft conversions, or period homes with smaller doorways.

What You Need for a Window Removal?

• A professional glazier or window removal specialist.
• A furniture hoist or moving team to lift the furniture safely.
• Permission from your landlord or building management (if renting or living in a shared property).

Although window removals may seem like a drastic measure, they are sometimes the only solution for oversized furniture. If you think you’ll need this service, let your removals company know in advance so they can arrange for the necessary equipment and specialists.

5. Consider Flat-Pack and Modular Furniture

If you’re planning to buy new furniture, consider choosing flat-pack or modular options. Many furniture brands offer large items that can be easily disassembled and reassembled inside your home.

Benefits of Flat-Pack and Modular Furniture

✔ Easier to transport and manoeuvre
✔ Can fit through small doors and stairs
✔ Can be taken apart for future moves

If you already own solid furniture that doesn’t dismantle, check if a professional dismantling service is available. Many moving companies, including MNM Removals, offer expert dismantling and reassembly services to help with large or awkward furniture.

Final Thoughts

The size of your stairs, doors, and lifts can make a huge difference when moving furniture into your new home. Planning ahead, measuring key areas, and considering alternative solutions like dismantling furniture or removing windows can help avoid last-minute problems.

Key Takeaways:

✅ Measure your furniture and entry points before moving
✅ Consider removing doors, banisters, or using an alternative route
✅ Hire professional movers if large furniture needs to be lifted through windows
✅ Choose modular or flat-pack furniture for easier transportation

If you’re planning a house move and need expert assistance, MNM Removals can help with furniture dismantling, moving logistics, and even specialist window removals. Contact us today for a stress-free moving experience!