ᐅ Carefully Dismantling and Reassembling IKEA Metod Cabinets When Moving

Hello everyone,

I am planning to move soon and own several IKEA Metod kitchen cabinets that I want to carefully disassemble and then correctly and securely reassemble at my new home. I have read that due to their construction and fittings, the cabinets should be handled very carefully to avoid damage to the metal hardware and the carcass.

In particular, I am interested in which tools you recommend, whether the back panels should generally be removed, and how important it is to document the screwed parts. It would also be helpful to know how to remove the hinges without bending them and if there are any tricks to avoid damaging the wooden dowels.

Does anyone have experience with this combination of careful disassembly and as quick a reassembly as possible? I would appreciate any tips, especially what you pay most attention to with this type of furniture. Thanks in advance!

Hello pofube,

First of all, thank you for your detailed and well-structured question. It makes it easier to provide a targeted answer.

Regarding tools, I recommend a cordless screwdriver with suitable bits – preferably a Phillips PH2 bit to remove screws without slipping. Hand tools like a sturdy flat-head screwdriver can help if something is stuck. You should definitely remove the back panels, as they put a lot of tension on the cabinet and make disassembly more difficult. The back panels are often fixed with small nails that can splinter, so be careful.

Documenting is extremely important because the Metod components usually have various types of screws and connectors. I usually use small labeled bags or boxes. Photos before disassembly can also be very helpful, especially for visible fittings.

The hinges are usually fixed with screws and can be carefully removed. I recommend leaving them attached to the cabinet for transport if possible to avoid bending. Wooden dowels should preferably not be pulled out but left in the cabinet. If they are very loose, it helps to use new dowels during reassembly.

I hope this already helps you.

Raymond schrieb:
You should definitely remove the back panels, as they put a lot of strain on the cabinet frame and make disassembly more difficult.

I can confirm that back panels are indeed the main reason cabinets are hard to pack properly during a move. I would add that you should be careful when removing the nails – it’s best to use a small pry tool and slowly lever the panel off. If the back panel splinters, it can cause problems when you reassemble the cabinet.

When loosening screws, it helps to turn them counterclockwise and avoid using excessive force to prevent damaging the screws, which often have soft heads. It’s a good idea to apply some oil spray or lubricant beforehand if the screws are tightly fastened.

One more tip: label the individual cabinet parts with masking tape and a marker so you don’t have to guess later during reassembly.

I disassembled and reassembled my Metod cabinets this way during my last move – it worked very well.

Regarding the mentioned points, I would like to address the stability during reconstruction.

A common mistake is reusing the connecting bolts and dowels, especially if they are already porous or damaged. It is advisable to get new wooden dowels and, if possible, replace the matching connecting bolts as well.

Concerning the hinges, I recommend removing them completely, particularly if the transport takes a long time or the furniture will be moved multiple times. A stable Phillips screwdriver blade, preferably with a magnetic tip, makes removal easier.

When disassembling, avoid using force; take your time with larger cabinets and work through the connections systematically. It can be a good idea to separate the cabinet in the middle or at the sides, if possible, to better distribute the weight.

Finally, I suggest using furniture straps or bands to secure the rebuilt cabinet in its new location to protect the construction.

Remove the back panel, loosen the screws, and carefully unscrew the hinges.

Do not pry out the wall plugs; it’s better to replace them during reassembly.

Don’t forget to label the parts.

BLAMAU schrieb:
Don’t forget labeling.

I completely agree. Especially when your mind is full due to moving, clear labeling really helps prevent frustration.

Last year, I experienced difficulties myself because we dismantled everything under stress. Having the wrong part in the wrong place causes a lot of problems.

What also helped me a lot was a checklist of everything I needed to dismantle and the order in which to do it. This way, you keep track of everything.

Also: Take as much time as possible, even if it’s tempting to finish quickly. Careful dismantling means less work and fewer damages when rebuilding.