Fully InsuredMon–Sun 7am–8pm · (213) 679-6844
Free Quote
HomeBlog › How to Move an Armoire or Wardrobe

How to Move an Armoire or Wardrobe

Published 2026-06-19 · Best Movers LA editorial team

An armoire is one of the heaviest, tallest, most top-heavy pieces in a home — and often an antique. Secure it, lighten it, and handle the height carefully.

Empty and secure the doors

Remove everything inside, take out drawers and removable shelves, and secure the doors — tie or tape them shut (or remove them if hinged for easy detachment) so they can't swing open mid-carry, which is dangerous and can crack the hinges. Bag all hardware.

Consider disassembly

Many large wardrobes break down — the top crown, doors and base may all detach, which transforms an impossible-to-move monolith into manageable pieces. Antique armoires are often built to come apart for exactly this reason. Photograph it as you disassemble.

Wrap and handle the height

Blanket-wrap the body and pad the corners and feet. The height is the hazard: keep it as upright as possible, use a dolly and at least two strong people, and on stairs keep the weight controlled and downhill. Watch the top clearance through doorways.

The LA doorway reality

A tall armoire often won't fit through a standard door upright — you may need to angle it, remove a door from its hinges, or take the piece apart. Our crews disassemble, secure and move heavy wardrobes and antiques as part of the move — see our disassembly guide, tight-spaces guide, and furniture protection guide.

Related guides

Related questions

How do you move a heavy armoire?

Empty it, remove drawers and shelves, secure or remove the doors, disassemble it if it breaks down (top, doors, base often detach), blanket-wrap it, and move it upright with a dolly and two strong people.

Can you take an armoire apart to move it?

Often yes — many large wardrobes and antique armoires break down into the crown, doors and base, which makes a near-impossible piece manageable. Photograph it as you disassemble.

How do I secure the doors on a wardrobe?

Tie or tape them shut, or remove them at the hinges if they detach easily. Loose doors swing open mid-carry, which is dangerous and can crack the hinges.

Will my armoire fit through the door?

A tall armoire often won't fit upright through a standard door. Measure it, angle it, remove an interior door for clearance, or disassemble the piece — which our crews handle.

Full LA moving cost & FAQ guide →

Get a Free Quote

Flat rate · No hidden fees · Reply in minutes.

Ready for a stress-free LA move?

Call now for a guaranteed flat rate — or get a quote online in 60 seconds.

Call (213) 679-6844  Get a Quote