ᐅ How can scratches be avoided when moving Billy bookcases?

Hello everyone,

I’m planning to rearrange several of my Billy shelves, but I’m concerned about potential scratches on the surfaces. This can happen quite easily, especially with wooden furniture that has a veneer finish or painted surfaces.

So my question is: What’s the best way to avoid scratches when moving Billy shelves? Which materials or tools are suitable to move the shelf gently, without damaging the floor or the furniture?

Also, I’m interested in any special techniques you would recommend when carrying the shelf through narrow spaces or when it stands on sensitive flooring. Looking forward to your tips and advice!

tobias10 schrieb:
How can you best avoid scratches when moving Billy shelves?

To prevent scratches on Billy shelves and the floor, several proven measures are helpful:

1. Use protective pads: Suitable felt pads or furniture sliders under the shelf legs reduce friction. For the floor, blankets, old rugs, or special moving blankets can be laid down.

2. Disassemble the shelf: Where possible, remove the shelves and side panels or at least lighten the shelf to reduce weight and make handling easier.

3. Proper lifting technique: Do not drag the shelf but lift it. Two people should coordinate to carry it as straight and securely as possible.

4. Use tools: A furniture dolly with rubber or felt padding can help move the shelf across smooth floors.

5. Prepare the surroundings in advance: Clear narrow passages and especially protect the floor.

These points significantly reduce the risk of scratches and ensure a hassle-free relocation.

liskar schrieb:
Disassembling shelves: where possible, remove shelves and side panels or at least relieve the shelf unit to reduce weight and make handling easier.

This is especially important. I have personally moved shelves and noticed that even just sliding a fully loaded Billy shelf unit is awkward and cumbersome.

I also recommend using soft gloves to improve grip while protecting delicate surfaces. Using non-slip mats during transport through tight spaces is also helpful.

If the floor or furniture is painted, work with light pressure and careful movements. Slight tilting while carrying can help when maneuvering around corners to avoid scraping.

Gino38 schrieb:
I also recommend placing the shelves on soft gloves to get better grip while protecting delicate surfaces.

Haha, I can just imagine that—“putting shelves on gloves” 🙂

But seriously, good gloves are indeed a great idea! They give you more grip and allow you to handle the Billy shelf securely without worrying about scratches.

Personally, I often put old, fluffy blankets or towels between the shelf and the floor when sliding it. That works really well, especially when you’re on your own and can’t constantly lift it.

My tip: Use a combination of good surface protection (felt pads, carpet scraps) and careful carrying. A bit of patience also helps—better to go slowly to avoid any scuffing. Some moving adventures even turn into a mini workout ;-)