Updated on September 11, 2024
When you think about how to move a mattress, the first thought that likely comes to mind is how to transport such a large object. While this is a big part of moving a bed, you must remember the preparation part that goes into it. Moving it out of your old home and into your new home takes some preparation beforehand. Whether you have a regular mattress and box spring set up or a more modern wood-paneled bed rest that can be easily disassembled, the constant factor is to pack no matter the mattress itself.
There are specific ways to pack your mattress that can help you save space and prevent it from getting dirty or damaged, especially if you decide to use a portable moving and storage container. So check out our moving tips for preparing and moving your mattress or mattresses from your old home to your new home.
Prepare: Like any good tactician, planning and scouting are the first steps to create a foundation for any plan. While this isn’t a football game or military operation, you don’t want to run into any problems on moving day. That means taking into account the types of mattresses that you have. King beds will be far more challenging to move, for instance, than twins, and box springs will take up even more space in your moving solution of choice.
Take a look at the path you will have to take to move your mattress out. See if it is easier to move it out the front or back door. Get the dimensions to your moving transportation of choice to see how you want to position it. If you have king mattresses to move, plan on getting multiple people to help you move it: at least two people to carry and another to spot the move.
Buy some supplies: You will want to protect your mattresses when you move them. You don't know what surfaces they might touch during the move, so it's best to buy a mattress bag. Make sure the mattress bag is graded to prevent moisture absorption and is strong enough that it won’t rip open if it is dragged on the concrete.
Once you have it on, it's a good idea to use packing tape to secure the opening well so nothing gets in. Make sure you have any supplies to break down your bed frame(s). This will mainly be for anyone with the wood-paneled box spring setup that generally fits into a headboard.
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Have some help available: Moving any sized mattress is a challenge just due to its size and bulkiness, so make sure you have moving help. Have at least one other person with you no matter what sized mattress you move.
As stated above, you will need at least two other people to help you carry a king bed and box spring and one other person to plot your moving path and ensure the mattress and box spring clear doorways and won’t hit or damage anything on the way out. Even queen mattresses will need at least a crew of three to move reliably. Just be sure you have plenty of help when moving any mattress.
Making the move: Once you have your plan of attack down and move your mattress, be prepared for where you will place it at in your moving transportation system of choice. For a 1-800-PACK-RAT portable container, you will want to put it in the back of the container by laying the mattress on its side on the floor against the back wall then flip it so it lays flat against the wall, filling the space between the floor to the ceiling. Other moving options may have another method of both securing the mattress and filling space, so be sure to plan accordingly.
If you are using a container to make your move, stacking the mattress against the wall in the back will help you save space and provide some padding for your items. You can secure your mattress against the wall with heavier boxed items or use ratchet straps or bungee cords to hold it in place. Loading and securing your mattress the right way will keep it and your stuff safe and secure for the journey.
All else fails, hire pros: Sometimes a move is just too much to manage, even if you have some help. Hiring professional labor assistance with an accredited company can solve your moving woes, including moving a mattress. If you decide to go this route, be sure to secure your bed(s) ahead of time the way you want them to be moved and leave the heavy lifting to the pros. These crews are pros for a reason and can move your stuff quickly and safely while also packing your stuff the best way possible so you get the most bang for your moving buck!
Use 1-800-PACK-RAT for Your Moving and Storage Needs
If you need a trusted moving service partner, give 1-800-PACK-RAT a call, as we provide the most reliable and stress-free moving solution. Instead of using a moving truck that you have to hoist your large mattress onto or use an unsteady ramp to carry your stuff up, our containers are ground-level loading with barn-style doors that increase security and packing space.
Our all-steel constructed, weatherproof containers come in three sizes for any local or long-distance move: 8-, 12-, and 16-feet. We can also provide temporary or long-term storage at any of our nationwide storage facilities - just call and let us know, or keep your container at your location for as long as you need to. Whatever your moving and storage needs, 1-800-PACK-RAT has you covered - give us a call today or go online for a free quote to see how we can making moving and storage simple for you!