How to Prepare a Sofa for Apartment Pickup

Start with the route, not the sofa

Measure the sofa at its widest, tallest, and deepest points. Then measure door openings, elevator doors, hallway turns, and the narrowest stair landing. A piece that fits through one doorway can still stop at the next corner.

Check the mechanisms

Sleeper sofas and recliners carry extra weight and moving parts. Tell the crew what the sofa does, whether it separates into sections, and whether feet or backs appear removable. Do not force unfamiliar mechanisms.

Coordinate the building

Ask management about elevator reservations, loading entrances, parking, protective floor coverings, and permitted pickup hours. Put those details in the estimate request so the arrival plan matches the building.

Pickup-day checklist

• Remove cushions, throws, and personal items.
• Photograph the sofa and the tightest turn.
• Reserve the elevator or loading area.
• Keep pets and children away from the route.
• Share any damage or pest concern before arrival.