If you need to move a couch but don't want to rent a U-Haul, then it may be worth using your truck or SUV. But will a couch fit in a truck or SUV? We did the research to bring you the answer.
Most couches will fit in a truck bed with the tailgate down, but you will need to use ratchet straps to secure the couch. For an SUV, you will need to measure the height, length, and width of the cargo area and compare it to the dimensions of the couch. Check to see if the couch will disconnect so you can load it in pieces.
Moving a couch will take some effort, but with the right vehicle and some preparation, it can be done. In this article, we will discuss the different ways to see if a couch will fit in your truck or SUV, how to secure it, and what to do if it won't fit. In addition, we will answer other frequently asked questions about moving a couch in a truck or SUV, so keep reading!
Can You Load A Couch Into A Pickup Truck Or SUV?
Moving isn't always easy, and finding a place for all of your furniture can be even harder. If you're moving a couch and don't want to spend the money on renting a truck, you might be wondering if you can load it into your pickup truck or SUV.
The answer is maybe. It all depends on the size of your vehicle and the couch. Most couches will fit in a truck bed with the tailgate down, but you will need to ratchet down the straps to keep it from sliding around.
If you have a furniture blanket handy, put it where the tailgate will come down so it doesn't damage the legs of the couch. Tighten the tie-downs crisscrossing over the end of the couch so it is snug against the back of the truck.
If you stacked any couch pieces, strap them together so they don't slide and fall over. It is best to have someone help loading and unloading the couch so you don't damage your truck or SUV and so that the coach doesn't get damaged.
For an SUV, you will need to measure the height, length, and width of the cargo area and compare it to the dimensions of the couch. Check to see if the back of the couch will disconnect so that you can lay it flat in the cargo area.
In addition, remove the legs of the couch if possible. It will make it easier to fit in your SUV and will prevent any damage to the interior of your vehicle. If you can't remove the legs, be sure to pad them well so they don't scratch or dent the inside of your SUV.
What If A Couch Won't Fit In An SUV?
While SUVs are able to fit more passengers, trucks have larger cargo areas which make them better suited for moving large items like couches.
If your couch won't fit into your SUV, don't try to force it. You will only damage your couch and your SUV. Instead, try one of these alternatives:
Ask A Friend
Do you know anyone who has a truck that you could borrow? If so, ask them if you can use it to move your couch. Just be sure to return the favor when they need help moving something large.
If you find someone, then be sure to tie down the couch so it doesn't slide around in the truck bed and damage the couch or the truck.
If you can't find a friend who has a truck, see if they have a trailer. Check your SUV for a towing hitch and make sure your SUV is able to tow the trailer.
Rent A U-Haul
If there is a U-Haul in your area, you could rent a truck for the day. This is a great option if you only need to move your couch a short distance.
You could also use this opportunity to move the rest of your furniture and belongings so that you don't have to make multiple trips.
Hire A Moving Company
If you don't want to move your couch yourself, you could hire a moving company. They will have the necessary equipment to safely move your couch, and they will also be insured in case of any damage.
Like the U-Haul, use this opportunity to move the rest of your belongings so you don't have to make multiple trips. This is also a good option if you are moving a long distance because they will be able to transport your couch and other belongings in their truck.
Sell The Couch
What is the condition of your couch? If it is in good condition, you could sell it and use the money to buy a new couch in your new home.
You could sell it online or have a garage sale. This is the last resort option, but it is better than having to leave your couch behind.
How Do You Load A Couch Into A Truck By Yourself?
If you have no choice but to try and load your couch into your truck by yourself, there are a few things you can do to make it easier:
Disassemble What You Can
First, try to make the couch as light as possible by removing any cushions and taking off the legs if possible. You can also do a quick search online to see if your couch can be disassembled. This will make it much easier to lift and maneuver the couch into your truck.
Use Moving Sliders Or A Blanket
If you happen to have moving sliders, they will make it much easier to move the couch on your own. You can also use a blanket to slide the couch across the floor. This will prevent you from having to lift the entire couch and risking damage to you and your flooring.
Furniture Dolly
A furniture dolly will be your best friend when moving a couch by yourself. You can rent one from a moving company or hardware store. Once you get the couch onto the dolly, strap it down, and then you can easily move it to your truck.
Getting The Couch Into The Truck
If you have made it this far with your couch, now the fun part begins—getting it into the truck.
The easiest way to do it by yourself is with a ramp. If you rented a truck, then more than likely it came with a ramp. In this case, wheel the couch up the ramp and into the back of the truck.
If you don't have a ramp, then you will need to stand the couch so it is vertical, and slowly bring it down so it is leaning against the back of the truck.
Now, go to the other end of the couch, lift from the bottom, and push it into the truck. Putting a blanket down in the truck bed will help it slide in more easily.
If the couch is too heavy, then don't risk injuring yourself. Ask a friend or a neighbor for a hand.
Couch Fits In SUV With The Liftgate Open—Is That Okay?
You can transport your couch with the SUV liftgate open, but you need to take some precautions.
First, tie the couch down so it doesn't move around while you are driving. You don't want it to slide out and get damaged or cause an accident.
You also need to check your state laws for the overhang limit. This is how much cargo can hang over the back of your vehicle.
If the couch is secure and within the overhang limit, then you should be good to go. However, it is recommended to take a route that has low traffic and few bumps to avoid any accidents.
Drive slow with your hazards on to be extra cautious. In addition, you won't want to drive uphill with the couch in your SUV because it could slide out.
This is a viable option for moving your couch but it is not the safest option. If you think there is a chance the couch could slide out, pull over and resecure it before continuing on your journey.
Final Thoughts
It's understandable to want to save money and not rent or hire professional movers to help you move your couch. However, it is important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. If you aren't in a rush, ask around for friends or family who might be available to help you move.
Made it to the end? Here are other articles, you might find helpful:
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