ᐅ How can I properly transport Billy shelves during a move?

Hello everyone,

I am planning to move soon and have several Billy bookcases from IKEA that I want to transport safely. My question is: What is the best way to transport Billy bookcases without damaging them? Specifically, I am wondering whether it is better to fully disassemble them or to move them assembled with proper protection. Additionally, I would like to know which materials or methods are effective for preventing scratches, breaks, or warping during transport. Are special carrying aids necessary, or is a simple blanket for cushioning enough? I look forward to helpful tips and experiences!

I would completely disassemble the shelves. Then store the boards flat and collect all small parts in bags. For transport, simply wrap them in blankets or bubble wrap; this will sufficiently protect the surface.

Umberto’s recommendation makes sense because disassembled shelves take up less space and are easier to handle. If you transport the shelves fully assembled, you risk damaging the joints at the dowels or screws.

Additionally, I suggest labeling all loose parts clearly to make reassembly easier later on. For protecting the surfaces, thick moving blankets are better than simple fabric covers because they provide shock absorption. If you don’t want to take the shelves completely apart, at least remove the back panels and secure the shelves.

One more important point: always transport the shelves upright. Lying them flat can cause warping or breakage.

umberto schrieb:
I would completely disassemble the shelves.

Interesting approach, but I think fully taking apart the shelves can be a waste of time for a short move. At least taking the shelves completely apart seems excessive to me, as long as you protect them well with blankets.

Some say that assembling them on site is even better because you don’t have to carefully reassemble everything upfront. I would argue that IKEA furniture is generally more durable than its reputation suggests and can handle quite a bit.

laureo schrieb:
Make sure to always transport the shelves upright.

I definitely agree that’s important. But wouldn’t it also be worth using a special furniture dolly or hand truck? It makes carrying easier and helps avoid damage.

If you want to avoid disassembly: well-pad the shelves with moving blankets, secure them with straps, and transport them preferably upright. This way, they are usually stable enough to avoid damage.

zarlu schrieb:
Some claim that assembling on-site is even better

That is partly true, but only if the shelves are light enough and the distance is short. With multiple floors and longer corridors, the risk of falls and damage increases significantly. Completely disassembling ensures safer transport and less stress on the joints.

Santi schrieb:
Cushion the shelves well with moving blankets, secure them with straps, and transport them preferably upright

This is a practical solution if you don’t have much time. It is important that the shelves are tightly wrapped so they don’t shift or bump against each other.

One last tip: If possible, carry them with two people to better distribute the weight. Two people can maneuver shelves more carefully and transport them more safely.