ᐅ How can I carefully disassemble and reassemble IKEA Besta units when moving?

Hello everyone,

I am planning to move soon and want to carefully disassemble my IKEA Besta cabinets to avoid damage during the process and when reassembling. Since the system consists of various panels, backboards, and drawers, I want to prevent any damage to the parts themselves as well as to the connectors and screws.

What is the best way to disassemble the components without causing damage? Are there any tips for storing or protecting small parts to avoid problems during reassembly? Also, is there a recommended order to follow, for example removing the doors first, then the carcasses, or something similar?

I would appreciate a detailed and practical guide, as the condition of the furniture is very important to me and I plan to continue using it in my new home.

For careful disassembly of IKEA Besta, I recommend the following structured approach:

- First, remove all contents from the drawers and compartments and completely empty the cabinets.
- Remove the doors: They are usually fixed to the hinges with 2–3 screws. Collect screws in a small container, ideally sorted by cabinet.
- Pull out the drawers and, if necessary, unscrew the fronts.
- Carefully detach the back panels; they are often just slotted in or fixed with small nails.

Store small parts such as screws, dowels, and fittings in sealable bags or containers to avoid loss.

When assembling, follow the IKEA instructions precisely to prevent confusion. I also recommend replacing any damaged screws or connectors before rebuilding.

Using a protective underlay during assembly is advisable to prevent scratches on the material.

RonJarrett schrieb:
First, remove all contents from the drawers and compartments and completely empty the cabinets.

Absolutely sensible, but I wonder if all this caution during disassembly is always necessary. IKEA furniture is basically designed for occasional assembly and disassembly, right? Sometimes there's too much emphasis on preventing damage, even though the dowels and screws in Besta units usually withstand several moves, even if you don’t take apart every single piece. Of course, you should be careful with delicate surfaces, but I often see more effort than benefit in this. What do you think?

GEKAU51 schrieb:
IKEA furniture is basically designed for occasional assembly and disassembly, right?

That is only partly correct. The Besta system is modular and designed for easy assembly, but the materials (particleboard, laminate) are not very durable when subjected to improper handling during disassembly and reassembly.

I recommend the following detailed steps:

- When disassembling, first remove the cabinet doors by fully loosening the hinge screws or using the quick-release mechanism (depending on the model).
- Completely remove the drawers and unscrew the fronts—this reduces stress on joints in certain areas.
- The carcass should be kept as close to its original shape as possible and should not be pushed or bent. Removing the back panel requires a delicate touch to avoid damaging the thin backing.
- Immediately sort screws and dowels into labeled bags after removal.

Important: Use a soft surface to lay down the components to avoid scratches and damage to the laminate.

During assembly:
- Tighten all connections exactly as instructed; overtightening can damage wood veneers.
- Check all connection points for damage and replace hardware if necessary.

One more note: Not all IKEA cabinets feel completely stable on first assembly because the materials and manufacturing are designed for a single, careful build.

RonJarrett schrieb:
Store small parts like screws, anchors, and fittings in sealable bags or containers to avoid losing them.

That’s a good tip, but I wonder if it also makes sense to carefully document which small part belongs where during disassembly.

Sorting parts into bags labeled by cabinet and section (e.g., "Besta top right") is helpful, but especially with multiple cabinets, I would be concerned about getting confused during reassembly.

Maybe taking photos or making notes would help. What do you think?

Also, I believe it’s worth questioning whether it’s necessary to fully disconnect all joints or just loosen them enough to maintain some stability.