Moving patio furniture can be a daunting task, especially when dealing with bulky, delicate, or weather-sensitive items. Proper packing and handling techniques ensure your furniture arrives at its new destination undamaged and ready for use. In this guide, we will walk you through the essential steps for how to pack and move patio furniture efficiently and safely.
Step 1: Assess Your Patio Furniture
Before you start packing, assess the condition and materials of your patio furniture. Some furniture may require special handling due to its fragility, while others may need disassembly for efficient packing.
Common patio furniture materials include:
- Wood. Requires protection against moisture and scratches, including the ever popular rattan.
- Metal. Prone to rust if not properly covered. This also applies to wrought iron, cast iron and aluminum furniture.
- Wicker. Fragile and can break if handled roughly.
- Plastic. Lightweight but prone to cracking under pressure.
- Glass. Highly delicate and needs thorough padding.
Take note of any repairs or maintenance needed before moving, such as tightening screws or applying protective coatings.
Step 2: Clean Your Furniture
Cleaning your furniture before packing ensures that no dirt, mold or pests travel with it to your new location. Follow these cleaning tips:
- Wood. Wipe with a damp cloth and apply a protective sealant.
- Metal. Remove rust and apply a rust-resistant spray.
- Wicker. Vacuum dirt and wipe with a mild soap solution.
- Plastic. Wash with soap and water, then dry completely.
- Glass. Clean with a glass cleaner and ensure it’s fully dry before wrapping.
Step 3: Disassemble When Possible
If your patio furniture is modular or has detachable parts, disassembling it can make moving easier. Remove cushions, glass tabletops or any detachable components to reduce the risk of damage. Keep screws, bolts and small hardware in labeled bags to avoid losing them.
Disassemble your umbrella by detaching it from the base. Secure the umbrella with a flap, if it has one, or twine, and cover it with protective cover. Pack the parts separately.
Other outdoor items you might have on your patio, such as shades, patio decor, heating or cooling appliances — though aren’t considered patio furniture — still should also be carefully dismantled and properly packed to avoid damage.
Step 4: Wrap and Protect Your Furniture
To prevent damage, wrap each piece appropriately based on its material:
- Moving blankets. Ideal for heavy or large furniture to prevent scratches and dents.
- Bubble wrap for delicate items. Especially necessary for glass surfaces and fragile wicker pieces.
- Plastic wrap. Useful for keeping cushions and fabrics protected from dirt and moisture.
- Cardboard for additional support. Can be placed between stacked items or around fragile edges.
Step 5: Pack Cushions and Accessories Separately
Cushions, pillows and outdoor rugs should be packed in large, sturdy boxes or vacuum-sealed bags to save space. Store small accessories like lanterns, planters and decorative items in labeled boxes with protective padding.
Step 6: Load the Moving Truck Strategically
When loading your patio furniture into the moving truck, follow these tips to maximize space and prevent damage:
- Place heavy items first. Such as metal tables or chairs to create a stable base.
- Stack chairs carefully. If stacking is necessary, use padding between them.
- Secure glass separately. Place glass tabletops upright between mattresses or secure them with wooden boards.
- Strap furniture in place. Use tie-down straps or bungee cords to prevent shifting.
Step 7: Unpack and Reassemble
Once you arrive at your new location, carefully unload your patio furniture, unwrap protective coverings, and reassemble any disassembled pieces. Wipe down your furniture if needed, and arrange it in your outdoor space.
Additional Tips for a Smooth Move
- Plan ahead. Measure doorways, hallways and moving truck space to ensure everything fits.
- Label everything. Clearly mark boxes with their contents for easy identification.
- Protect against weather. If moving in rainy conditions, use waterproof coverings.
- Seek professional help. Consider hiring movers for particularly large or heavy pieces.
- Prepare to move your plants yourself. Even if you’ve hired movers, chances are they won’t move your plants. So you’ll need to find a way to transport them securely and undamaged.
Tips for Packing and Moving a Grill
A grill (or a smoker) is a fixture on many a patio. Here’s how to move it safely.
Cleaning the Grill
When cleaning your grill, choose a cleaner that’s safe for the finish. If you have a stainless-steel grill, an appliance-safe cleaner will usually work well. Use a nylon grill brush to scrub the grates and remove any leftover food from your last cookout.
Don’t forget to clean the inside of the grill, thoroughly removing any soot or ash. For charcoal grills, be sure to empty and clean the ash catcher.
Disassembling the Grill
If possible, disassemble the grill. Place grates, trays and other small parts inside the grill body or in a separate box, using packing material to prevent movement during transit. For grills that can’t be taken apart, wrap them securely in bubble wrap or a moving blanket.
Important Safety Tip
Make sure your grill or smoker has had enough time to cool before moving day — ideally, give it at least 24 hours. Even if the handles feel cool, the body of the grill could still be hot. Avoid using it for a few days prior to your move; this also gives you time to clean it thoroughly.
Remember: Movers Will Not Transport Propane Tanks
If you have a gas grill, remove the propane tank before the grill is loaded onto the moving truck and plan to transport the tank yourself. Always detach propane tanks from gas grills before loading them into the moving truck.
The Bottom Line
By following these steps, you can efficiently pack and move your patio furniture without unnecessary stress or damage. Proper preparation and careful handling will ensure your outdoor setup is ready to enjoy at your new home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Packing and Moving Your Patio Furniture
Should I take my patio furniture with me when I move?
Yes, absolutely. Please take your patio furniture with you, as it’s considered personal property and not part of the house sale. The same goes for decor, appliances and plants. Anything you own — and can remove and transport — should move with you.
How do I move a large patio umbrella?
Close and secure the umbrella with a strap, then wrap it in plastic or a protective cover. If possible, detach it from the base and pack both parts separately.
Should I remove cushions before moving patio chairs?
Yes, removing cushions prevents damage and keeps them clean. Pack them separately in boxes or plastic bags.
Can I stack patio furniture to save space in the moving truck?
Yes, but ensure each piece is protected with padding, and avoid stacking delicate materials like wicker and glass.
What’s the best way to transport a glass patio table?
Remove the glass top, wrap it in bubble wrap and a moving blanket, and store it upright between secure items to prevent breakage.
How can I protect my metal furniture from rust during transport?
Apply a rust-resistant spray and ensure that metal pieces are completely dry before wrapping them in moving blankets or plastic covers.