Do I Need to Empty Dressers Before Movers Arrive in Austin? Practical Dresser‑Packing Advice

Moving is one of those tasks that quickly feels bigger than it looks. A common question we hear from Austin customers is whether dressers need to be emptied before the moving crew shows up. Below we’ll explain why you might want to empty them, what’s safe to leave inside, how to secure drawers, and how Mountain Movers ATX can help make the process smoother and safer.

Why should you empty dressers before moving?

Emptying dressers before a move helps in two big ways: it reduces the chance of injury and lowers the risk of damage to your furniture and belongings. Full drawers add weight and can make a dresser awkward to carry. Emptying them makes the piece easier to lift, load, and secure in the truck.

Moving heavy furniture is physically demanding — preparing ahead makes the job safer for everyone.

Professional Movers: Handling heavy and awkward furniture

Large furniture pieces — including cupboards and dressers — are often hard to move and may require two or more people to lift safely.

THE MOVERS, 2020

What safety benefits come from emptying drawers?

Removing items reduces overall weight and makes it easier to control the piece while navigating stairs, tight doorways, or hallways. Lighter, balanced furniture lowers the chance of dropping or tipping the dresser, which protects both people and property.

Industry data on workplace injuries highlights how transportation and handling incidents are common — careful handling matters.

Transportation safety and moving incidents

Transportation-related incidents are a frequent source of injuries in wood-related industries, including injuries tied to equipment like forklifts and pallet jacks.



Analysis of forklift and pallet jack injuries in wood-related industries, S Gorucu, 2020

How does emptying dressers reduce damage during transport?

Items left in drawers can shift during transit and cause scratches, dents, or broken belongings. Empty drawers are easier to strap down and protect with blankets or wrap, so your dresser — and the items that were inside — arrive in better shape.

Can I leave clothes or other things in dressers when movers handle them?

It’s a common shortcut to leave clothes in drawers. Depending on what’s inside, that can be okay — but there are trade-offs. Below we break down what movers typically recommend and why.

How do professional movers in Austin handle dresser drawers?

Most professional crews prefer dressers to be emptied. It makes the item easier and safer to move. Even trained movers appreciate lighter, more stable furniture when they’re carrying pieces through tight spots or up and down stairs.

What’s safe to leave inside a dresser?

If you need to leave something in drawers, stick to soft, lightweight items like folded clothes or linens. Avoid leaving heavy, sharp, or fragile objects — those increase the risk of damage or shifting during transport.

Best packing tips for dressers before a move

Preparing dressers well takes a little time but pays off. Here are practical steps you can follow to protect both furniture and contents.

How to secure drawers and protect their contents

Keep drawers from opening with packing tape, moving straps, or specialized drawer locks. If you leave soft items inside, use towels or blankets as extra padding to prevent shifting. For empty dressers, cover exposed surfaces with a moving blanket before loading into the truck.

Which packing materials should you use?

Use the right supplies to protect furniture and fragile items:

• Bubble wrap : Wrap small fragile pieces before packing.
• Moving blankets : Cushion and protect furniture surfaces.
• Packing tape or moving straps : Keep drawers closed and secure items in place.

How Mountain Movers ATX simplifies moving dressers

We offer services designed to take the guesswork out of furniture moves. Our team helps you plan, prepares items properly, and follows local rules so your move goes smoothly.

1. Knowledge of local regulations : We know neighborhood and HOA rules in Austin and can advise you so the move complies with local guidelines.
2. Permit application assistance : If a permit is needed, we’ll help you with the paperwork and process.
3. Transparent pricing : Clear estimates with no hidden fees — so you know what to expect.
4. Professional crews : Trained teams handle your belongings carefully and efficiently to reduce downtime and stress.

How our full-service moving helps with furniture prep

Our full-service option includes packing materials, furniture protection, and on-site guidance. We’ll prep dressers, secure drawers, and load items safely — saving you time and hassle.

How to request a free quote and personalized moving advice in Austin

To get a free quote or tailored moving plan, contact Mountain Movers ATX via our website or by phone. We’ll walk you through options and recommend the best approach for your furniture and timeline.

Common moving mistakes with dressers — and how to avoid them

A few small missteps can cause big headaches on moving day. Knowing what to avoid helps prevent damage and delays.

Why is improper furniture preparation risky?

Skipping basic prep — like emptying or securing drawers — can lead to injuries, damaged furniture, or items spilling out during the move. These problems are avoidable with a little planning.

How to ensure a stress-free move with dressers

Use this checklist to reduce stress and surprises:

1. Confirm building policies : Check moving rules for elevators, loading zones, and any HOA requirements.
2. Reserve necessary resources : Book elevator time or loading zones ahead of your move to avoid delays.
3. Obtain permits : Apply for permits if your move requires them for curb or sidewalk use.
4. Plan for access times : Know any restricted moving hours that could affect your schedule.
5. Hire experienced movers : Work with a local team like Mountain Movers ATX that understands Austin logistics and permits.
6. Transparent pricing : Choose a mover that offers clear, upfront pricing to avoid last-minute surprises.
7. Professional handling : Make sure the crew is trained to move dressers safely and efficiently.

Frequently asked questions about emptying dressers before moving in Austin

Should I empty dressers completely or partially before movers arrive?

We generally recommend emptying dressers completely. That makes the item lighter and easier to handle. If you must leave items inside, stick to soft, lightweight clothing and remove anything heavy or fragile.

How do movers handle dressers with fragile or valuable items inside?

Movers usually ask that fragile or valuable items be taken out before transport to avoid damage. If those items must stay, make sure they’re well-padded and secured so they won’t shift during the move.

Conclusion

Emptying and properly preparing dressers makes moving safer and reduces the chance of damage. Little steps — like removing heavy items, securing drawers, and using the right packing materials — go a long way. If you’d like help, Mountain Movers ATX offers experienced crews and full-service options to guide you through every step of your residential move. Reach out for a free quote and moving plan tailored to your needs.