Furniture Removal Tips: A Brief Overview
Moving Home is considered one of the most stressful and disorientating life experiences that can skyrocket blood pressure and negatively impact your mental well being. There are many contributing reasons for this, but includes the memories and emotional attachment to a home that is developed over a period of time. And unfortunately, the less organized you are then the more dramatic the effect on your general well being.
While there isn’t much we can do about the ache of letting go, there is a lot we can do to help reduce the chaos leading up to your home relocation, the relocation itself, and getting settled into your new home.
Here are the main points we’ll cover in this guide:
- 5 Tips on Preparing for Your Move
- 5 Tips on How to Pack Boxes and Other Items
- 5 Things to Do Before Moving Day
- How to Choose the Right Moving Company in South Africa
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5 Tips on Preparing for Your Move
There is a lot to get organized before the actual moving day and it can all become rather daunting. Here are some critical factors that can save you a lot of time (and even money) and reduce the tension around moving day if you are proactive:
1. Plan Ahead and Create a Comprehensive Moving Checklist
One of the most common moving mistakes is leaving things to the last minute. Ideally, you should begin planning your move at least four to six weeks in advance. This gives you enough time to research furniture removal companies, compare quotes, and coordinate crucial logistics like cleaning, Wi-Fi transfers, and property handovers. A moving checklist keeps you on track during a hectic process. Include key deadlines such as:
- Booking your moving company
- Confirming your new lease or transfer date
- Transferring utilities and internet services
- Scheduling cleaners (like Sweepsouth) for your old and new home
- Notifying insurance and updating your postal address
Keeping these tasks written down (or on a shared digital list) will prevent small details from being forgotten in the chaos of moving week.
2. Book Your Movers Early
Booking your moving company is one of the most important things you can do to ensure that you have someone to help you safely transport your personal belongings from one destination to another.
When booking your moving company:
- Do your research to ensure you choose professional movers who can accommodate your needs. Your goal is to find a removal company that will help you, not just move you.
- Make sure to read reviews or get a referral. Nothing speaks to a moving company’s reputation than what previous clients say about them.
- Confirm your moving date early, ideally a month ahead, especially if you’re planning to move at a busy time like month end or during the holidays.
- Read their Ts & Cs to check what could result in extra charges and if you’ll be covered in case of damage.
Pro Tip: Reliable movers like Cape Removals can assist with local removals in the Western Cape, long-distance furniture removals, and office relocations, including professional packing, storage, and insurance options to protect your furniture and valuables.
3. Start Packing As Soon As Possible & Declutter
Some of the best advice we can offer is to start packing earlier than you think you need to, especially if you haven’t moved before. Our advice is to start the process a month in advance, but this will depend on the size of your household.
Start by packing up items you don’t use often, or approaching the process room-by-room. Breaking the packing process up over a period of time should leave you with only essentials to pack up a few days before your movers arrive.
We also advise to use this opportunity to declutter your home: sort through cupboards, garages, and drawers, and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or discard. The fewer items you move, the easier and cheaper your move becomes.
Being selective now means fewer boxes to move, less packing material needed, and a cleaner start in your new home.
Pro Tip: Make sure all important personal items such as passports, ID documents, jewellery, watches, and electronics are not packed with other items. Pack these in a separate box/bag bag that stays with you during the move. Moving day can be hectic, and having your valuables secure gives peace of mind.
4. Notify Key Services and Update Your Details
Coordinate your utilities and services when you move and notify them of your new address. Before moving day, remember to update, notify or transfer:
- Electricity and water accounts
- Telephone, DSTV and Wi-Fi providers
- Insurance policies
- Banks and postal services
- Security and alarm companies
- Subscription services and deliveries
If you’re renting, make sure your landlord or agent is aware of your moving schedule to avoid delays with keys or access.
5. Take Some Time Off
At the least, you should take the day off work when you relocate your home, even if it’s a small move. If you can, consider taking the day before your move off as well to allow you time to finalize any outstanding tasks.
Keep in mind that moving companies can get delayed due to traffic, roadworks, and even unforeseen challenges on your property. In case of a delay you shouldn’t be pressured to be somewhere else.
5 Tips on How to Pack Boxes and Other Items
1. Choose the Right Size Boxes
Selecting the correct box sizes can make or break your moving experience (literally). Using boxes that are too big or too small can cause damage to your belongings and create unnecessary frustration during packing and lifting.
Start by getting a variety of small, medium, and large boxes, and use them wisely:
- Small boxes are ideal for heavy or dense items such as books, tools, canned goods, or glassware. They’re easier to carry and won’t collapse under the weight.
- Medium boxes work best for items like kitchen appliances, décor, and electronics — things that need a balance between protection and manageability.
- Large boxes should be reserved for lightweight items such as bedding, cushions, towels, and lampshades.
For long distance moves or if your items are going into storage, it’s also worth investing in specialty boxes. Wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes, dish packs for kitchenware, and picture boxes for mirrors or frames.
Pro Tip: Always test the box before sealing — if it bends or feels unstable, something isn’t right. It’s better to use two smaller boxes than one oversized, overweight one. In addition, always make sure your boxes are packed all the way to the top. Half-full boxes may collapse when stacked and cause damage to the items inside.
2. What to Pack First When Moving?
When it comes to packing order, start with items that you use the least. Often, that’s decor. Framed photos, artwork, ornaments, and other decorative pieces can be packed weeks before your moving date without disrupting your daily life.
Decor items are often fragile and oddly shaped, which means they require extra care. Wrap each item individually with bubble wrap or soft packing paper, and line the box with towels or crumpled paper for cushioning. For framed wall art or mirrors, use flat picture boxes and mark them clearly as Fragile.
Packing décor first also helps you start mentally detaching from your current space. As the walls become bare, it signals the beginning of your transition. This slow emotional shift may help with an easier moving day.
3. Pack Heavy Items at the Bottom, and Lighter Ones on Top
It’s simple physics: placing heavier items at the bottom of the box gives it stability and prevents crushing lighter belongings. Unfortunately, this is one of the most common packing mistakes homeowners make.
For example, if you’re packing up kitchenware, start by putting a few (bubblewrapped) plates at the bottom. After that you may add a few well-protected cups or glasses. Ensure there’s plenty of padding between these fragile items and make sure any empty space at the top is filled with additional padding as well.
This layering method keeps boxes balanced and ensures fragile objects aren’t squashed during stacking.
You can also reinforce heavier boxes with extra tape along the bottom seams and corners; even sturdy boxes can weaken under weight during a long-distance move.
4. Label Boxes with Numbers and Keep a Separate, Detailed List
A proper labelling system can save you hours on the other side of your move. Instead of just writing “Kitchen” or “Bedroom,” take it a step further:
- On top of writing the room name, assign each box a number. For example, (Kitchen 1, Kitchen 2, etc.)
- Write a very short summary on each box outlining the contents. For example, “Pots & Pans”.
- Keep a written or digital list to keep track of the exact contents of each box. For example, “Kitchen 1: Small, medium, & large Bauer pot set. 1 x frying pan…” etc.
This approach helps you know exactly what’s in each box, making unpacking more efficient and reducing the chances of losing track of anything important. In addition, if you take out insurance for your move this approach is absolutely necessary when it comes to claims.
Pro Tip: Take a quick photo of each box before sealing it — especially for boxes with fragile or high-value items. Photos can act as an extra inventory backup and also help in case of insurance claims.
5. How to Pack Clothes & Shoes When Moving
Clothing and shoes often take up more space than you think — and if not packed properly, they can arrive wrinkled, damaged, or even mismatched. There are several efficient ways to handle them depending on how much you own and how far you’re moving.
For Clothes:
- Wardrobe boxes are perfect for hanging garments — they keep clothes wrinkle-free and ready to hang directly in your new closet.
- Suitcases and duffel bags can double as moving containers for folded clothes, making efficient use of existing storage.
- Vacuum-seal bags are great for bulky items like winter coats, blankets, and jerseys — they save tons of space.
For Shoes:
- Stuff each shoe with socks or tissue paper to help maintain its shape.
- Wrap shoes individually in packing paper or plastic to prevent scuffs.
- Pack in sturdy boxes and place heavier shoes (like boots) at the bottom.
- For shoes that don’t need to maintain shape, simply throw them in a duffle bag.
5 Things to Do Before Moving Day
1. Pack a Sundries Box and Overnight Bag
One of the smartest moving-day strategies is preparing a sundries box and an overnight bag; your lifeline when everything else is boxed up.
Your sundries box should contain the daily-use essentials you’ll need as soon as you arrive at your new home, you know, the kind of items you don’t want to dig through a dozen boxes to find. Think of it as your first-day survival kit:
- Kettle, mugs, coffee, tea, sugar, snacks
- Basic cutlery, paper plates, and dishcloths
- Cleaning supplies (all-purpose cleaner, sponges, garbage bags)
- Toilet paper, hand soap, paper towels
- Phone chargers, extension cords, a small toolkit, scissors, and a box cutter
Keep it in your own vehicle, if possible, or alternatively ask the movers to load it last and unload it first.
Your overnight bag is equally important. This is an essential survival tool, especially if there are unexpected delays with your move. Pack it as if you’re going away for a weekend and include:
- A change of clothes for each family member
- Phone chargers, extension cords, a small toolkit, scissors, and a box cutter (yes, even if it’s in the sundries box).
- Pajamas, toiletries, and medications
- Towels and basic bedding
- A few toys or comfort items for children, if applicable
After a long day of moving, you’ll be too exhausted to unpack. Having a go-bag ready ensures you can freshen up, relax, and sleep comfortably on your first night without rummaging through boxes.
2. Empty and Secure Cupboards and Drawers
It may seem convenient to leave lightweight items inside drawers or cupboards for the move, but this can cause damage to both your furniture and your belongings. Drawers can slide open or warp under shifting weight, and loose items can rattle and break in transit.
Before moving day:
- Empty all drawers and cupboards completely, especially those containing heavy or fragile items.
- Pack contents separately in well-labeled boxes — “Kitchen Utensils,” “Office Supplies,” “Bedroom Drawers,” etc.
- Remove and wrap shelves (especially glass ones) in bubble wrap or packing paper.
- Secure doors and drawers using masking tape, plastic wrap, or reusable straps to prevent them from swinging open.
If you’re moving antique or delicate furniture, wrap the entire piece in protective blankets or stretch wrap. This prevents scuffing and keeps the structure stable during handling.
Pro Tip: Keep all screws, bolts, or shelf clips in a clearly labeled zip-lock bag and tape it to the inside of one of the drawers or cupboards. It makes reassembly at your new home much easier.
3. Disconnect and Clean Appliances
Large household appliances require special attention before moving. Not only are they valuable, but improper handling can lead to damage, leaks, or even safety hazards.
24 Hours before the move:
- Unplug all appliances (fridge, washing machine, dishwasher, tumble dryer, etc.) and disconnect and fully drain all water connections.
- Defrost the freezer and let it dry completely to prevent leaks and mold.
- Empty and clean the fridge. Remove all shelves, drawers, and trays, and pack them separately in padding or towels.
- Wipe everything down. Clean out lint traps, filters, and interior compartments to avoid transporting dirt and odours.
- Tape doors shut with painter’s tape or wrap the appliance in stretch film to prevent them from swinging open during transport.
If possible, consult your user manuals for specific moving instructions — some washing machines, for example, require stabiliser bolts before moving to prevent drum damage.
4. Pack All Loose Items
Loose items are one of the biggest causes of delays and breakages during a move. Anything that isn’t packed properly can shift, fall, or go missing.
Before the movers arrive, do a quick sweep through your home and collect everything that’s not boxed or wrapped — especially items like:
- Lamps and lampshades
- Ornaments, small décor pieces, and plants
- Loose tools, stationery, or kitchen gadgets
- Bathroom products and toiletries
Use smaller boxes or containers for these items, wrapping each piece in packing paper or bubble wrap. For plants or irregularly shaped items, you can use open boxes lined with paper to cushion movement.
If you have drawers filled with miscellaneous items (“junk drawers”), now’s the time to declutter and group similar things together. You’ll be amazed how much easier unpacking becomes when everything has already been sorted.
Pro Tip: Keep a few spare boxes and rolls of tape handy on moving day — there’s always something you’ll discover at the last minute that still needs packing.
5. Take Photos (of Your Old and New Place)
Taking photos before and after your move is one of the simplest yet most powerful steps you can take to protect yourself and stay organised.
Before you move out:
- Photograph every room in your old home once it’s packed up and clean.
- Take close-ups of any pre-existing damage (like wall scuffs, floor scratches, or broken fixtures) — especially if you’re renting. This provides evidence for your deposit return or to avoid liability.
- Snap pictures of how electronics are connected (TV setups, Wi-Fi routers, entertainment systems). It’s a lifesaver when you’re reconnecting cables later.
Before you move in:
- Take clear photos of every room in your new home, including any visible wear and tear.
- Document meter readings (water, gas, electricity) on the day you move in for billing accuracy.
- Photograph the layout of rooms before furniture arrives — this helps you visualise arrangements and speeds up the unpacking process.
How to Choose the Right Moving Company in South Africa
Selecting a professional, reliable mover can make all the difference between a smooth relocation and a chaotic one. Here’s what to consider:
- Experience and reputation: Read reviews and ask for referrals.
- Insurance coverage: Ensure your belongings are protected during transit.
- Transparent quotes: Ask for a detailed breakdown of costs (labour, fuel, tolls, etc.).
- Range of services: Check whether they offer packing, wrapping, storage, and vehicle transport.
- Communication: Choose a company that’s responsive and proactive in keeping you updated.
Cape Removals is a trusted moving company who offers local and long-distance relocations, office moves, storage, vehicle transport, and full packing and wrapping solutions throughout South Africa — all backed by experienced teams and personalised customer service.
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