ᐅ What is the best way to transport an IKEA Brimnes during a move?

Hello everyone, I am planning my move and would like to know the best way to transport the IKEA Brimnes wardrobe without damaging it. It is the model with drawers and door fronts, which is quite large and sturdy but has delicate surfaces.

I am particularly interested in whether there are better options to transport the wardrobe fully assembled, or if it is absolutely necessary to disassemble it beforehand. If disassembly is advisable, what is the most effective way to do it so that all parts are safely stored and can be reassembled quickly and easily at the destination?

Additionally, which protective materials (e.g. blankets, plastic sheeting) do you recommend, and how do you usually handle transport if no large van or truck is available?

I look forward to your experiences and tips.

jetau55 schrieb:
I am mainly interested in whether there are better ways to transport the cabinet fully assembled, or if I absolutely have to disassemble it beforehand.

I would definitely recommend fully disassembling the Brimnes. The back panels are often the weakest parts. Transporting it fully assembled can easily lead to damage.

To protect it, use blankets or bubble wrap.

The Brimnes wardrobe is known for having relatively thin side panels and back panels that can easily warp during transport. For this reason, I recommend fully disassembling the wardrobe, even though it requires more effort.

Here is a brief guide on how I suggest doing this:

- First, remove all drawers and doors. This helps avoid unnecessary weight and damage to the fittings.
- Then, carefully pry off the back panels using a wide putty knife, paying attention to the nails or staples to prevent breaking.
- Unscrew the side panels with a cordless drill. It’s best to keep the connecting screws systematically in a small container to avoid losing any.

For transport, it is important to:
- Protect all parts individually with blankets or bubble wrap, paying special attention to the edges.
- Store flat parts (e.g., back panels) as horizontally as possible to prevent sagging.
- Avoid stacking too heavily to prevent pressure damage.

Good preparation saves a lot of hassle during reassembly in the end.

troyjon schrieb:
I would definitely disassemble the Brimnes completely.

That is correct; the Brimnes should be transported disassembled. Additionally, I want to point out that transporting it assembled is problematic not only due to the risk of the back panel breaking but also because joints can loosen from vibrations.

For additional security, I recommend:

- Using stretch wrap to bundle the individual parts.
- Placing foam or thick blankets between the parts to prevent friction and scratches.
- Care when loading: the parts should preferably stand upright, rest on a flat surface, and be well secured with straps to prevent shifting.

If you do not have your own transporter, transporting with tie-down straps on a roof rack or trailer is worthwhile, considering the safety requirements.

Carefully documenting the screws and fittings with labels also greatly facilitates reassembly.