Moving day brings its own unique set of challenges, but relocating outdoor furniture often gets overlooked until the last minute. Whether you’re dealing with heavy patio sets, delicate garden ornaments, or weathered deck furniture, these pieces require special attention and planning. Your outdoor furniture has likely endured seasons of weather exposure, making it more fragile or heavier than you might expect.
1. Start with a Thorough Inspection
Before you begin the moving process, walk through your outdoor space and catalogue every piece. Check for rust, loose bolts, cracked wood, or any damage that might worsen during transport. Document these issues with photos – this helps with insurance claims if further damage occurs. Pay special attention to joints and connections, as these are typically the weakest points during a move.
Take measurements of larger pieces to ensure they’ll fit through doorways, gates, and truck openings. Many outdoor furniture pieces are designed to stay outside year-round, so they might be larger than typical indoor furniture.
2. Clean Everything Before Packing
Dirt, pollen, and moisture trapped in outdoor furniture can cause problems during transport. Clean all surfaces with appropriate cleaners for the material type. For metal furniture, remove any rust and apply a protective coating. Wooden pieces should be dehydrated to prevent mould growth during storage or transport.
Don’t forget about cushions and fabric elements. These items often harbour moisture and odours that can transfer to other belongings. Wash removable covers and ensure everything is completely dry before packing.
3. Disassemble When Possible
Large outdoor dining sets, gazebos, and modular seating often break down into smaller, more manageable pieces. Keep all hardware in clearly labelled bags taped to the corresponding furniture piece. Take photos of the assembly process in reverse – these images become invaluable reference guides during reassembly.
Some pieces might require special tools for disassembly. Gather these tools beforehand and keep them with the furniture hardware to avoid delays on moving day.
4. Protect Against Weather Elements
Unlike indoor furniture, outdoor pieces may face additional weather exposure during the move. Wrap items in waterproof materials, especially if rain is forecasted. Moving outdoor furniture requires extra protection since these pieces have already been exposed to elements and may be more susceptible to damage from moisture.
Use moving blankets for initial protection, then add plastic sheeting or tarps for water resistance. Secure all coverings properly to prevent them from shifting during transport.
5. Address Weight Distribution Carefully
Outdoor furniture can be deceptively heavy, especially pieces made from wrought iron, concrete, or solid wood. Distribute weight evenly in your moving truck to prevent shifting. Place heavier items against the truck walls and use tie-down straps to secure everything in place.
Consider the weight capacity of your moving equipment. Standard furniture dollies might not handle the weight of some outdoor pieces—rent or purchase heavy-duty equipment designed for outdoor furniture weights.
6. Handle Unique Materials Appropriately
Different outdoor furniture materials require specific handling techniques. Wicker and rattan need gentle treatment to avoid breaking brittle fibres. Aluminium pieces can dent easily, but are lightweight. Teak and other hardwoods are heavy but durable.
Plastic furniture might seem indestructible, but cold weather makes it brittle and prone to cracking. If moving during the winter months, allow plastic pieces to warm up before handling them roughly.
7. Plan for Reassembly Space
Consider where you’ll reassemble larger pieces at your new home. Some outdoor furniture sets require significant space for proper assembly. Clear areas in your new yard or garage before the movers arrive.
If you’re moving during off-season months, you might need to store disassembled pieces temporarily. Ensure your storage area is dry and accessible for when you’re ready to set up your outdoor space.
8. Consider Professional Assistance
Complex outdoor furniture like hot tubs, large pergolas, or custom-built pieces often requires professional expertise. These items may need special equipment, multiple people, or specific knowledge about disassembly and transport.
Don’t underestimate the complexity of moving certain outdoor pieces. Built-in barbecue islands, stone fire pits, or elaborate outdoor kitchen components might require permits for disconnection and reconnection. Professional movers understand local regulations and have the expertise to handle these specialised items safely.
9. Prepare Your New Outdoor Space
Before your furniture arrives, prepare the destination area at your new home. Check that patios and decks can support heavy pieces like concrete planters or stone tables. Clear pathways from the street to your outdoor areas, removing obstacles that might complicate delivery.
Consider your new space layout compared to your old one. Measurements from the inspection phase become crucial here. Some pieces might not fit in the intended locations, requiring alternative placement.
Test electrical connections for powered furniture like fire pits or outdoor heaters. Ensure water connections work for plumbing pieces such as outdoor sinks.
Your Outdoor Oasis Awaits
Successfully relocating your outdoor furniture ensures you can quickly recreate your favourite outdoor spaces at your new home. With proper planning, protection, and care, your patio furniture will arrive ready to help you enjoy those first sunset dinners in your new backyard.
Remember that packing large furniture requires patience and the right techniques, but the effort pays off when you’re relaxing in familiar comfort at your new address. Butler’s Removals & Storage specialises in handling all types of furniture moves, ensuring your outdoor pieces receive the expert care they deserve throughout the entire relocation process.