Record each large item
Write down height, width and depth for sofas, wardrobes, tables and appliances. Note detachable legs, doors or sections, and check manufacturer instructions before dismantling. Keep measurements with an inventory and a clear description of each item.
Measure doorways and hallways
Measure the usable opening with doors fully open, allowing for handles, frames and fixed obstacles. Check hall width, corners and the space available to turn. A single doorway measurement does not establish whether an item can travel through the whole route.
Check stairs and lifts
Record stair width, landings, turns and low ceilings. For lifts, check the doorway, internal dimensions and permitted load with the building manager. Do not guess at capacity. Tell the removal company about difficult routes before agreeing the work.
Plan where furniture will go
Sketch the destination rooms and mark doors, windows, radiators and fixed cupboards. Leave usable walkways. Label boxes and furniture by room so the plan is understandable when unloading begins.
Flag uncertain items early
Send measurements and suitable photographs when requesting a quote. If access remains uncertain, ask how it should be assessed. Do not plan to use windows, balconies or fire escapes without separately arranged specialist advice. See house removals and flat removals for the other details needed.