Do I need to empty drawers for movers?
This is one of the most common questions we hear from clients preparing for a move in Vancouver.
You’re packing up your home or office, and it feels like a win to leave everything tucked neatly inside a drawer—right?
But the truth is: it depends.
Whether it’s a bedroom dresser, office filing cabinet, or that heavy sideboard you inherited from your aunt, here’s what you need to know about moving drawers safely (and smartly).
When You Can Leave Drawers Full
In some cases, leaving drawers full actually helps the move go faster—less packing, less lifting, and fewer boxes.
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
There are also times when keeping drawers full creates risk—for your furniture, your items, and your movers.
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 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 labeled 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”
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 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.
And if packing is your least favorite part of the move? We coordinate directly with Vancouver In The Box, so your entire home or office gets professionally packed—drawer by drawer.
Still Wondering “Do I Need to Empty Drawers for Movers?”
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.
Call-to-Action:
Get your move consultation and let us help you prep the smart way—down to the last drawer.