Should You Empty Dresser Drawers Before Your Move?
When planning a residential move, one of the most common questions is: Do I need to empty my dresser drawers? The answer depends on the type of dresser, its contents, and how you want to streamline your move.
Here’s everything you need to know to make the best decision for your next residential move in New England.
When You Can Leave Drawers Full
In some cases, it’s perfectly fine to leave your dresser drawers filled:
- Lightweight Items Only: If the drawers contain clothing, linens, or other soft, lightweight items, they can often stay as-is. This minimizes the need for extra packing and saves time.
- Sturdy Furniture: Solid wood dressers with strong frames can typically handle the extra weight of filled drawers.
- Secured Drawers: If the drawers won’t slide open during the move, they’re safe to leave full. If needed, use moving tape or plastic wrap to secure them in place.
When to Empty Your Dresser Drawers
There are situations where it’s better to empty the drawers:
- Fragile or Heavy Items: Avoid keeping breakables, liquids, or heavy items like books in your dresser. These can add unnecessary weight and risk damage to both the furniture and the items inside.
- Weak or Delicate Dressers: Lightweight or older furniture may not hold up well during the move if the drawers are full.
- Long-Distance Moves: For moves across New England or beyond, it’s best to lighten the load and secure items separately.
Tips for Packing Dresser Drawers
If you’re leaving items in the drawers:
- Wrap the Dresser: Use plastic wrap or moving blankets to secure the drawers and prevent them from sliding open during transport.
- Balance the Weight: Avoid overfilling the drawers, as this can strain the dresser and make it harder to move.
If you’re emptying the drawers:
- Pack Strategically: Use small boxes or vacuum-sealed bags to organize items from the drawers. Label them for easy unpacking.
- Keep Essentials Handy: Pack a separate box with any essentials you’ll need immediately after your move, like pajamas, toiletries, or important documents.
Expert Moving Tips: What to Do with File Cabinets During a Move
When planning an office move in New England, one common question is: Should I empty my file cabinets before moving them? It’s a valid concern—file cabinets are heavy, awkward, and often packed with important business documents you’d rather not reorganize afterward.
So, does emptying file cabinets make your move easier, faster, or more affordable? Let’s break it down.
What to Do with Your Records During a Move
While it’s possible to move full file cabinets, we typically recommend emptying them before your move. Here’s why:
- Protect Your Files and Cabinets: Emptying the drawers prevents damage to both your paperwork and the cabinet itself during transport.
- Declutter and Organize: Moving is a perfect opportunity to review your files, purge outdated documents, and streamline what you bring to your new office.
Tips for Packing Your Business Files
Once you’ve decided to empty your cabinets, it’s important to pack those documents securely. Here’s how:
- Keep Files in Order: Maintain your current organization system by removing files in sequence. Use sturdy file boxes and label them clearly with masking tape or markers. This ensures everything stays organized and easy to unpack at your new location.
- Use the Right Boxes:
- Banker Boxes: Perfect for transporting files, they’re sturdy and easy to stack.
- 1.5 Cubic Foot Boxes: If using smaller boxes, pack them at a slight angle so the files lean to one side. This keeps them tightly packed during the move.
- Seal and Secure: Ensure all boxes are sealed properly to prevent papers from shifting or spilling during transport.
Learn more about moving boxes.
Can You Leave Cabinets Full?
While emptying is usually best, there are some exceptions:
- Two-Drawer Cabinets: These can often be moved fully intact. Be sure to confirm with your moving team.
- Four-Drawer Cabinets: For tall cabinets, empty the top two drawers to avoid bending the cabinet’s frame or damaging the contents.
- Lateral Cabinets: Due to their lightweight construction, lateral cabinets should be fully emptied to prevent bending or structural damage.
Why Choose Our Team for Your Office Move in New England?
At Mastodon Moving, we specialize in office relocations, commercial moving, corporate moves, and heavy-item transportation throughout New England. Our experienced movers know how to handle sensitive equipment, file cabinets, and bulky furniture with care.
Whether you’re moving across town or across the state, we’ll work with you to create a stress-free, customized moving experience.
Have questions or need help planning your move? Contact us today for expert advice and a free estimate. Let’s make your next move your easiest yet!