Do you have to empty drawers for movers?
When it comes to moving, one of the most common questions people ask their mover is whether they need to empty drawers before loading furniture onto the moving truck. The short answer is: it depends. Every move is different, and factors like the type of furniture, distance, and items inside all affect whether it’s safe to leave the drawers full or empty the drawers ahead of moving day.
When You Can Leave Drawers Full
For furniture with drawers, such as a dresser, desk, or cabinet, leaving lightweight, non-fragile small items inside may be safe to leave, especially if the dresser is lightweight or made of solid wood and remains sturdy during transit. In some cases, drawers will help keep contents contained and save time packing. However, drawers full of loose or shifting items can still slide apart during the move, especially in tight spaces or around sharp corners, increasing the chance of damage.
Here’s when it’s usually okay:
- The furniture is solid wood or well-built
- The contents are lightweight (clothing, linens, papers)
- The piece will remain upright during the move
- Drawers can be secured shut with tape or straps
At BBX, we evaluate this during your pre-move walk-through or video consult. If it’s safe for the item and our team, we’re happy to move it as-is.
When You Should Empty Drawers
Heavier contents, fragile items, or anything that could cause damage during the move should always be removed. Liquids, valuables, and things that should never be left in drawers, such as cash, documents, or breakables, should be packed separately. These items inside drawers can shift during long-distance transport and damage the furniture, its rolling mechanism, or the furniture's finish, especially if the weight presses directly on wood.
You should empty drawers when:
- The furniture is fragile, old, or flat-pack (like IKEA)
- You’ve packed heavy or sharp items (tools, books, electronics)
- The drawers aren’t secure or are overfilled
- The piece needs to be carried on stairs or tipped on its side
Drawers that aren’t emptied can:
- Shift or slide open during transport
- Add unexpected weight and stress to the frame
- Break during lifting or moving
- Lead to liability issues if the contents are damaged
What About Office Moves and Filing Cabinets?
Office furniture follows many of the same rules—but there are a few extra things to consider:
- Filing cabinets with wheels: These can usually stay full. They’re designed for mobility and safe rolling—just secure the drawers.
- Filing cabinets without wheels: These should be emptied, especially if they’re multi-drawer, heavy, or will need to be lifted. The extra weight creates lifting hazards.
- Desks and sideboards: Always remove loose items to prevent internal shifting or damage.
Not sure how to move all those files and supplies efficiently?
BBX offers specialized box-and-dolly systems designed for offices. We bring labelled bins that roll right alongside your furniture—no unpacking, no re-boxing. It’s faster, cleaner, and safer for your team.
BBX Pro Tip: Try the “Lift Test”
Many moving companies recommend that you empty drawers when moving and pack them in moving boxes for maximum protection. This makes the piece lighter and easier to carry, reduces the risk of accidents, and helps prevent drawers that might fall or still slide even when wrapped. Using moving blankets, blankets to protect, and wrapping the entire piece with packing tape or masking tape can help keep drawers in place, but in some cases it’s best to remove them entirely and put the drawers back once you place at your new home.
Want a quick way to decide?
Gently lift one side of the furniture. If it feels off-balance, heavier than expected, or wobbly, it’s probably safer to empty it.
Why Movers Care About What’s Inside
You might wonder: why are we so particular about what stays in drawers?
Because when something shifts mid-move, things break: furniture, floors, or fingers.
At BBX, we plan everything down to the drawer because we’re here to protect:
- Your furniture
- Your belongings
- Our crew
- Your peace of mind
If there’s a smarter way to do it, we’ll tell you. If you’d rather not think about it, we’ll handle it.
If you want to stay organized, you can label each box by drawer, box by drawer or room, which makes it easy to put things back and put things back in place quickly. For items like filing cabinets, antique furniture, or pieces where the furniture might break, it’s usually safer to pack them separately. If you’re unsure and need help, always ask your moving company—professional moving guidance ensures a smoother moving experience and helps you decide whether you want the responsibility of transporting certain things inside your furniture or not.
And if packing is your least favourite part of the move? We coordinate directly with Vancouver In The Box, so your entire home or office gets professionally packed, drawer by drawer.
When Do Professional Movers Recommend Emptying Drawers?
Don’t guess.
Book a consult and let BBX show you exactly what stays, what goes, and how to make your move faster, safer, and smoother.
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Get your move consultation and let us help you prep the smart way, down to the last drawer.