How to Move Flat When You Live on the Top Floor and There Is No Lift

Start with a Realistic Plan

If your building doesn’t have a lift, everything has to be carried manually, which means your move may take longer than usual.

Create a clear moving checklist that includes:

• Inventory of all large items (sofas, wardrobes, beds, etc.)
• Packing deadlines
• Booking the right-sized van
• Parking arrangements near the entrance

Tip: Notify your movers in advance that there’s no lift access, so they can plan accordingly and bring extra hands if necessary.

Relevant Articles:

How to Choose Between a Man and Van and a Full Moving Service

Declutter Before You Move

When you have to carry everything down several flights of stairs, less is definitely more.
Take time to:

• Sell or donate items you no longer need.
• Recycle bulky or broken furniture.
• Downsize clothing, books, or decor you rarely use.

The fewer items you move, the faster and cheaper your move will be.

Dismantle Large Furniture

Moving bulky furniture through narrow stairwells is one of the hardest parts of top-floor moves.

To make it manageable:

• Disassemble beds, wardrobes, and tables where possible.
• Keep screws and fittings in labelled bags taped to the furniture.
• Wrap each part with protective blankets or bubble wrap to prevent scratches or dents.

Pro Tip: If you’re unsure how to dismantle complex furniture, Brilliant Removals’ professional team can do it safely for you before moving day.

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How to Handle Complex Furniture Disassembly Safely

Pack Smart and Light

Avoid overloading boxes — heavy boxes are dangerous when carried down stairs.

Type of Item	Suggested Box Weight	Packing Tip
Books & small electronics	Up to 10 kg	Use small boxes only
Clothes & linens	Up to 15 kg	Pack in suitcases or bags
Kitchenware	Up to 12 kg	Wrap glass in paper or cloth
Mixed items	Up to 10–12 kg	Balance weight evenly

Label each box with its contents and destination room, so movers can handle them efficiently.

Clear and Prepare Stair Access

Before the moving team arrives:

• Keep stairways clear of clutter, shoes, or rugs.
• Notify neighbours about your moving day to avoid inconvenience.
• Open all doors and make sure hallways are accessible.

If your building has narrow stairs, measure large items beforehand to ensure they fit through the stairwell or doorways.

Hire Professional Movers Experienced with Stairs

Not all movers are equipped to handle top-floor moves. Choose a professional moving company experienced in navigating multi-storey flats without lifts.

Look for companies that:

• Offer Man and Van services with trained staff
• Have insurance for items carried by hand
• Bring equipment like lifting straps and trolleys

Brilliant Removals regularly helps clients move from high-floor flats in London — safely, efficiently, and with full coverage for your belongings.

Arrange Convenient Parking

When you live on the top floor, having the van parked as close to the entrance as possible saves enormous effort.

• Request a temporary parking permit if required.
• Inform your movers of the nearest loading zone or drop-off area.
• Block off the space on the day using bins or cones (if local regulations allow).

Tip: For London moves, you can check your borough’s website for parking permit rules for moving vans.

Protect Your Belongings (and the Property)

When moving heavy items down staircases:

• Use corner guards or padding to protect walls.
• Cover furniture with moving blankets or shrink wrap.
• Wear gloves with good grip if you’re carrying items yourself.

This prevents both damage to the property and injuries during the move.

Relevant Articles:

How to Pack Fragile Items Safely for Transport

Take Breaks and Stay Hydrated

It’s easy to underestimate the physical strain of carrying boxes up and down flights of stairs.
Make sure to:

• Take short breaks between loads
• Stay hydrated
• Keep snacks or energy bars handy

Moving day is a marathon, not a sprint!

Consider Partial Packing or Loading Help

If budget allows, consider hiring partial services, such as:

• Professional loading/unloading assistance only
• Packing services for fragile items
• Furniture disassembly and reassembly

This way, you stay within budget but still get professional help where it matters most.

Final Thoughts

Moving from a top-floor flat with no lift is a challenge, but with the right preparation and professional support, it’s entirely manageable.
Plan early, pack smart, and work with movers who understand the complexities of stair-only access.Brilliant Removals can handle the heavy lifting — literally! Whether it’s navigating narrow staircases or ensuring your furniture arrives safely, our experienced team makes your move smooth from start to finish.

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