Do Movers Disassemble and Reassemble Furniture? Here’s How It Really Works

For most professional moving companies—including United Prime Van Lines—basic disassembly and reassembly is considered part of the job.

We routinely handle these items:

• Bed Frames: We take apart the headboard, footboard, and rails.
• Dining Tables: Removing legs so the table can be wrapped in blankets and fit through the door.
• Sectional Sofas: Unclipping the sections so they can be moved individually.
• Simple Desks: Removing legs or return pieces (L-shapes) if needed.
• Dressers with Mirrors: Detaching the mirror from the back of the dresser.

The Cost:

• Local Moves (Hourly): You pay for the time it takes. If we spend 30 minutes taking apart 4 beds, that’s 30 minutes of billable labor.
• Long-Distance Moves (Flat Rate): This labor is usually built into your quote if we know about the items beforehand.

The "Red Flag" Items: What We Usually Don't Touch (Or Charge Extra For)

There are certain items that require special tools, liability waivers, or simply aren't safe for general movers to mess with.

1. Particle Board Furniture (The IKEA Factor)

We love IKEA for its price, but moving it is a nightmare.

• The Issue: Particle board (pressed wood) is not designed to be taken apart and put back together multiple times. The screw holes strip, the wood crumbles, and the piece becomes wobbly.
• Our Policy: We will move it, but we often ask you to sign a waiver stating we aren't responsible if it destabilizes during reassembly. Or, we might recommend moving it whole if possible.

2. Cribs and Baby Furniture

This is a big safety issue.

• The Issue: If a crib is reassembled incorrectly (even by one missing washer), it can be dangerous for the baby.
• Our Policy: Many movers will disassemble a crib but will not reassemble it due to liability. We recommend you handle the crib reassembly yourself so you have 100% peace of mind that it’s secure.

3. Gym Equipment (Treadmills, Ellipticals, Home Gyms)

• The Issue: These are complex machines with electronics, cables, and tension rods.
• Our Policy: We can move them if they fit through the door. If they need to be taken apart, we usually recommend hiring a third-party specialist. Regular movers are not certified Peloton technicians.

4. Custom Built-Ins & Antiques

• The Issue: If a piece was built inside the room (like a wall unit) or is an antique held together by wood glue and dowels (no screws), we can't take it apart without breaking it.
• Our Policy: We generally do not touch carpentry or glued antiques.

How We Handle the Hardware (So You Don't Lose a Screw)

The biggest fear people have is: "They'll take my bed apart and lose the bolts."

Here is the United Prime Van Lines protocol for keeping track of your parts:

1. The "Parts Box": On some moves, we designate one specific box clearly marked "PARTS & HARDWARE" that stays with the foreman.
2. The "Tape-To-It" Method: For bed frames and tables, we often put the screws in a heavy-duty Ziploc bag and tape it securely to a non-visible part of the furniture itself (like the back of the headboard or underside of the table).
3. Labeling: If we take apart a complex piece, we label the bag: "Master Bed - 4 Long Bolts, 4 Washers."

Should You Do It Yourself to Save Money?

If you are paying by the hour (Local Move), doing the disassembly yourself before we arrive is the easiest way to save cash.

DIY is a good idea if:

• You have the original tools (Allen wrenches).
• The item is simple (like unscrewing table legs).
• You want to save 30–60 minutes of labor cost.

Leave it to us if:

• You lost the instructions.
• The piece is extremely heavy or awkward.
• You don't have a power drill. (Our crews carry professional tools and can do in 5 minutes what might take you 20).

Dining Room and Home Office

These rooms have the biggest, heaviest, and most awkward pieces. Here is what we typically tackle:

Dining Tables:

• Legs Off: almost always. We remove the legs to protect them from snapping off in the truck and to make the table flat for efficient packing.
• China Cabinets & Hutches: These often come in two pieces (a top glass hutch and a bottom buffet). We unscrew or unclip them to move them separately.

Desks:

• L-Shaped Desks: We usually have to separate the "return" (the L-part) from the main desk to get it through the door.
• Hutch Tops: Just like china cabinets, if there is a shelving unit sitting on top of the desk, we take it off.

The "Proceed with Caution" List (Items That Are Tricky)

There are some items that professional movers—including us—approach very carefully. These often have specific risks or liability rules.

1. Particle Board / Ready-to-Assemble Furniture (e.g., IKEA)

We love a good affordable bookshelf, but they are not designed to be moved.

• The Risk: Particle board is glued sawdust. Once you unscrew a bolt, the hole often crumbles. If we take it apart, it might not go back together tight and sturdy.
• Our Approach: We will move it, but we usually recommend moving it whole if possible. If it must be disassembled, we may ask you to sign a waiver acknowledging that it might not be as stable when reassembled.

2. Baby Cribs

This is a major safety issue.

• The Risk: If a crib is missing one washer or if a bolt isn't torqued perfectly, it can be dangerous for a baby.
• Our Policy: We are happy to disassemble the crib for you. However, for liability reasons, many movers (including us) prefer not to reassemble cribs. We want you, the parent, to put it back together so you have 100% peace of mind that it is secure.

3. Gym Equipment (Treadmills, Ellipticals, Pelotons)

• The Risk: These have complex electronics, tension rods, and warranties that void if moved improperly.
• Our Policy:
• Simple: If it folds up or fits through the door, we move it.
• Complex: If it requires taking apart pulleys and motors, we usually recommend hiring a third-party fitness equipment specialist. We are movers, not certified Peloton technicians.

The Million-Dollar Question: "What About the Screws?"

The biggest fear people have is that we’ll take the bed apart and lose the four bolts that hold it together.

Here is the United Prime Van Lines protocol:

1. The "Tape-To-It" Method: We put the hardware in a heavy-duty Ziploc bag and tape it securely to the piece itself (usually the back of the headboard or the underside of the table). This way, the parts never leave the furniture.
2. The "Parts Box": On larger moves, we sometimes designate a specific "Parts Box" that stays with the foreman or goes in the cab of the truck.
3. Labeling: We don't just throw screws in a bag. We label it: "Master Bed - 4 long bolts, 4 washers."

Is Disassembly Included in the Price?

This depends on the type of move you booked.

1. Local Moves (Hourly Rate): Yes, it is "included," but remember: Time is Money.

• If we spend 45 minutes taking apart 3 beds and a complex desk, that is 45 minutes of billable labor.
• Tip: If you are on a tight budget, take apart the simple stuff (like bed frames) yourself before we arrive to save money.

2. Long-Distance Moves (Flat/Binding Rate): This labor is usually built into the flat price—IF we knew about it.

• If you told us about the beds and tables during the estimate, the labor is already covered.
• If you forgot to mention the giant wall unit that needs 2 hours of disassembly, that might result in an extra labor charge on moving day.

The Bottom Line

If it got into the room, we can get it out.

Most of the time, we can handle the disassembly and reassembly so you don't have to lift a finger. Just be honest with us during the estimate about what you have (especially the IKEA wardrobes and the home gym), so we can bring the right tools and the right crew.

Gym Equipment and Outdoor Items (The "Heavy Lifting" Category)

These are often the most complicated items in a home to move. They aren't just heavy; they are mechanically complex or structurally massive.

Gym Equipment (Treadmills, Ellipticals, Home Gyms)

• The Rule: If it folds and fits through the door, we move it whole.
• The Exception: If it’s a large machine that needs to be taken apart (removing tension rods, disconnecting electronics, disassembling pulleys), this usually goes beyond standard moving labor.
• Our Approach: We often recommend a third-party specialist for high-end equipment (like a Peloton or a complex Bowflex). Movers are strong, but we aren't certified gym technicians, and we don't want to void your warranty.

Outdoor Play Sets and Trampolines

• Trampolines: These almost always need to be fully disassembled. We can usually handle this, but it takes time.
• Swing Sets / Jungle Gyms: These are often rusted together or anchored into the ground.
• Warning: If the bolts are rusted shut, we might not be able to take it apart without breaking it. We usually ask you to handle disassembly of large outdoor playsets before we arrive, or hire a handyman.

The Million-Dollar Question: "What About the Screws?"

The biggest fear customers have is: "You’re going to take my bed apart and lose the one specific bolt that holds it together."

We have a system for that.

1. The "Tape-It-To-The-Piece" Method For most beds and tables, we put the hardware into a heavy-duty Ziploc bag and tape it securely to the item itself (usually the back of the headboard or the underside of the tabletop). This way, the parts never leave the furniture they belong to.

2. The "Master Parts Box" For larger moves with lots of disassembly, we create a specific "Parts Box".

• This box is often kept in the cab of the truck or is the last box loaded/first box unloaded.
• We label the bags clearly: "Master Bed Rails," "Dining Table Legs," "Guest Crib."

3. We Bring the Tools You don’t need to hunt for your Allen wrenches. Our crews carry power drills, hex keys, screwdrivers, and wrenches. We come prepared.

Is Disassembly Included in the Price?

This is the part that affects your wallet.

Local Moves (Hourly Rate)

Yes, disassembly is included, but remember: Time is Money.

• If we spend an hour taking apart 4 beds, a crib, and a sectional, that is one hour of billable labor.
• Pro Tip: If you want to save money on a local move, take apart the simple stuff (like bed frames) yourself the night before. Leave the heavy/complex stuff to us.

Long-Distance Moves (Flat/Binding Rate)

The labor is usually built into the flat price—IF we knew about it.

• If you told us about the beds and tables during the estimate, the labor is covered.
• If you forgot to mention the giant wall unit or the shed out back, that might result in an extra charge or a "surprise" on moving day.

Summary Checklist: DIY vs. Pro

ItemDIY or Mover?Why?Bed FramesMoverWe do it fast; you save your back.Dining TableMoverNeeds to be done right to protect legs.CribsDIY (Reassembly)Safety liability. Best if you tighten the bolts.IKEA WardrobeDIY / LeaveRisk of breaking.TrampolineDIY / HandymanTime-consuming and often rusted.TV MountsDIYTake TVs down before we arrive. We don't drill walls.

Should You Do It Yourself to Save Money?

Since time is money on local moves, and complexity adds cost on long-distance moves, many people ask: “Should I just take the beds apart myself before you get here?”

Here is our honest advice on when to DIY and when to let the pros handle it.

Do It Yourself If:

• You are on a tight budget: For local hourly moves, having the beds and tables already broken down can save 1–2 hours of billable labor.
• The item is simple: If it’s just four bolts on a dining table, go for it.
• You have the original instructions: This makes reassembly much safer.
• You are anxious about parts: If you are the type of person who needs to know exactly where every screw is, you might feel better managing the hardware bag yourself.

Leave It To Us If:

• You don’t have tools: We bring power drills, hex keys, and socket sets. We can do in 5 minutes what might take you 20 with a manual screwdriver.
• The item is heavy or awkward: Taking apart a bunk bed or a heavy mirror often requires two people to support the weight while unscrewing. Don't risk injury.
• You want full liability protection: If we take it apart and it scratches, we are responsible. If you take it apart and scratch the floor, that’s on you.

How to Prepare for Moving Day

If you want the disassembly process to go smoothly (whether we do it or you do), here is a quick prep list:

1. Strip the Bed: Remove all linens, pillows, and mattress protectors. We can’t take the frame apart if the sheets are still on.
2. Clear the Surfaces: Take everything off the top of the dresser, desk, and nightstands.
3. Empty the Drawers: For solid wood dressers, you can sometimes leave light items (clothes) inside. For everything else (especially desks and IKEA pieces), empty them completely so the frame doesn't warp when we move it.
4. Unplug Electronics: Disconnect all cords from the TV, computer, or adjustable bed motor.

The Bottom Line

If it got into the room, we can get it out.

Most of the time, we can handle the disassembly and reassembly so you don't have to lift a finger. Just be honest with us during the estimate about what you have (especially the complex stuff), so we can bring the right tools and the right crew.

At United Prime Van Lines, we’re happy to handle the heavy lifting—and the tiny screws—so you can focus on getting to your new home.

What About Liability? (If It Breaks, Who Pays?)

Here is the part most people don't think about until it's too late.

1. The "Inherent Vice" of Particle Board If we take apart a sturdy oak table and scratch it, that is on us. But if we take apart a cheap particle-board wardrobe and the screw holes crumble because the material is weak, that is often considered "inherent vice" (a flaw in the item itself), not mover negligence.

• Our Policy: We will tell you before we touch it if a piece looks risky. We prefer honest conversations over broken promises.

2. Valuation Coverage Standard moving liability is often $0.60 per pound unless you purchase Full Value Protection.

• Reality Check: If a 50-pound dresser breaks, standard coverage pays $30. If that dresser is an antique heirlooom, you need to discuss Full Value Protection with your coordinator before move day.

How to Help Us Help You (Prep Tips)

If you want the disassembly process to be fast and safe, here is a quick checklist for the night before:

1. The "Purge" Decision: Don't pay us to disassemble and move a wobbly IKEA desk you plan to replace in six months. It is cheaper to leave it behind. We can help you decide what is worth moving during the estimate.
2. Clear the Path & The Surfaces: We need room to work. Please clear off the nightstands, empty the dresser drawers (especially for non-solid wood), and strip the bed linens.
3. The "Anxiety Bag": If you have custom decorative knobs or a special tool for a unique piece of furniture, pack those yourself in a clearly labeled box or Ziploc bag that stays with you. It saves everyone from hunting for that one specific Allen wrench at midnight.

The Bottom Line

If it got into the room, we can get it out.

Most of the time, we handle the tools, the heavy lifting, and the tiny screws so you don't have to. Just be honest with us during the estimate about your "tricky" items so we can plan the right tools and crew for the job.

At United Prime Van Lines, we bring the drills, the skills, and the organization to make sure your furniture arrives in the same condition it left—whether that's in Hallandale Beach or Chatsworth.

When Should You Let the Movers Not Touch Your Furniture?

Even as movers, we’ll tell you: sometimes it’s better if we don’t do it.

You might want to handle it yourself if:

• It’s an Antique: Very expensive custom furniture or older pieces with fragile joinery. You might feel more comfortable managing it personally.
• Time vs. Money: For local hourly moves, you want to save money by doing the labor yourself the day before.

You might want a Specialist if:

• Precision Items: Pool tables (needs leveling), Grand Pianos (needs tuning), or Grandfather Clocks.
• Installations: Anything involving built-in electrical, plumbing, or heavy wall mounting.

We’re happy to coordinate around that. You can have the specialist come before us to disassemble, and we’ll handle the transport.

Common Questions We Hear

“Can I leave my dresser drawers full?”

Sometimes.

• Solid Wood: If it’s sturdy, you can often leave light items (socks, t-shirts) inside.
• IKEA / Particle Board: No. You must empty it completely. The weight will cause the frame to warp or collapse when we lift it.
• The Rule: If it’s heavy items (books, jeans) or breakables, empty it.

“Do you mount TVs?”

We can take a TV off the wall mount, but we generally do not re-mount it at the new house.

• Why: We are movers, not licensed contractors. Drilling into unknown studs carries liability we can't take. We recommend a handyman for the install.

“How long does disassembly take?”

It varies, but for planning purposes:

• Standard Bed: 15–30 minutes.
• Dining Table: 10–20 minutes.
• Complex Wardrobe/Wall Unit: 45 minutes to 1+ hour.