Living in an apartment often means dealing with narrow corridors, tight stairwells, and multiple flights of stairs. Getting a new piece of urban outdoor furniture up to your balcony or rooftop can feel like a major logistical challenge. Fortunately, you don't need to be a professional mover to succeed. Here are the easiest ways to get your furniture upstairs safely and with minimal stress.
1. Disassemble First. This is the single most effective step. Before you even attempt to move the item, check if it can be taken apart. Remove legs from tables, cushions from chairs, and disassemble any modular sections. This dramatically reduces the item's bulk and weight, making it easier to maneuver through tight spaces. Keep all screws and small parts in a labeled bag.
2. Use a Furniture Dolly or Hand Truck. A furniture dolly is a game-changer for apartment living. Slide the base of your furniture onto the dolly and secure it with moving straps. This allows you to roll the item across landings and tilt it to climb stairs one step at a time, saving your back and your walls.
3. Employ Furniture Sliders. For lighter pieces, furniture sliders are a cheap and brilliant solution. Place them under the corners or legs of the item. They allow you to slide the furniture smoothly across flat surfaces and can even provide some glide when navigating stairs with a partner.
4. Enlist a "Rope and Rail" Team. For balconies above the first floor, consider an external lift. With a trusted friend helping from below and another on your balcony, you can carefully hoist the furniture using sturdy ropes. This method requires extreme caution and is best for lightweight, durable items. Always check with your building management first.
5. Hire Professional Movers. Sometimes, the easiest way is to pay for expertise. Professional movers have the equipment, experience, and muscle to handle bulky items quickly. For a large, heavy, or expensive piece of furniture, this is often the safest and most efficient investment.
Before you start, always measure your furniture and all stairwells, doorframes, and hallways to ensure a fit. A little planning and the right technique will have you enjoying your urban oasis in no time.