ᐅ KALLAX and Moving Companies – Tips to Avoid Damage?

Hello everyone, I need your advice: I’m moving soon and have several large KALLAX shelves from Ikea that I want to have transported by a moving company. My question is, how can I best prevent damage to the KALLAX shelves during transport?

Some of the shelves are fully loaded with various items, but of course, I don’t want to overload the movers with the full weight. I would also appreciate tips on how to properly secure, pack, or possibly even disassemble the shelves to avoid paint chipping or damage to the wooden panels during handling.

Has anyone had experience with moving companies regarding the transport of KALLAX or similar furniture? What are your recommendations for protective measures? Thanks in advance!

Cosimael schrieb:
How can I prevent damage to KALLAX shelves during transport by the moving company?

It’s great that you’re planning so carefully! :-) When I moved last time, I completely emptied the KALLAX shelf and wrapped it well with bubble wrap and stretch film – that protects it really well. Always ask moving companies if they have experience with disassembled furniture, as sometimes they prefer to pack in individual parts, which reduces the risk of scratches or dents.

Don’t forget bags or boxes for small parts so nothing gets lost. And if possible, cushion the inner sides of the shelves with a piece of blanket to avoid pressure marks. You’ll definitely manage it!

Regarding the question about transporting KALLAX shelves by professional moving companies, I would like to provide some precise advice:

First: Shelves should be completely emptied whenever possible. Transporting them empty is safer and easier to handle. If they are not fully empty, the contents and shelves must be securely fastened, for example with stretch wrap or moving blankets.

Disassembly is recommended if the furniture can be easily taken apart. This reduces the risk of damage to the wood and surface. Collect screws and small parts in labeled bags to save time and avoid confusion.

Very important: The packaging material must be manageable; sharp edges can be protected with cardboard or foam padding. It is worthwhile to coordinate with the moving company in advance about the protective measures to be used to ensure a suitable approach.

Cosimael schrieb:
How can I best avoid damage to the KALLAX shelves during the move?

I think this is a very important question! That’s why I want to add some basic tips that might be helpful:

1. If the shelf isn’t too heavy, you can usually transport it assembled. Make sure to carry the shelf only by the sturdy sides and avoid pulling or squeezing it on the shelves.

2. To prevent scratches, you can use blankets or special furniture pads. Use packing material two or three layers thick whenever possible.

3. Make sure the moving company does not stack the shelves lying down if the piece is designed only to stand upright. Otherwise, this could cause deformation.

4. In case something is disassembled: document the screw positions with photos or notes to make reassembly easier.

I hope this helps! 🙂

Transport shelves empty whenever possible.

Wrap them with stretch film.

Disassemble if possible, and keep screws in bags.

Do not store lying down.

NUGRANT schrieb:
Bubble wrap along with stretch film protects that perfectly!

Absolutely, and if the movers have no experience, just kindly point out: a KALLAX shelf needs to be carried gently, not pushed!

I would also recommend putting small stickers saying "Fragile" or "Do not lay flat." This encourages more care when handling and stacking.

And if you want to be absolutely sure: take photos of the condition before transport! On the one hand for your own protection, and on the other in case something does happen. This way, it’s easier to file a claim 😉

Good luck! 😊