Protect Floors When Moving: 5 Materials and What Not to Use

The fastest way to prevent scratches and scuffs while moving is to combine heavy-duty temporary covering on traffic routes with the right equipment and handling technique. Lay contractor-grade board like Ram Board or floor protection film down hallways and doorways, then move furniture with felt or plastic furniture sliders and rubber-wheeled dollies instead of dragging it. Step-by-step material picks and floor-specific rules follow below.

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TL;DR:

• For hardwood, use breathable board or rosin paper, sweep away grit first, and tape seams to the covering rather than directly to the floor.
• Match protection to the surface: use carpet film on carpet, avoid adhesive film on vinyl or finished wood, and remove carpet film well before 30 days.
• For appliances, place plywood or thick board beneath the dolly route, lift the appliance onto the dolly with two people, and pad doorway thresholds.
• Released Value pays only 60 cents per pound regardless of an item’s worth, so compare it with Full Value Protection and confirm coverage in writing.

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