Protecting Your Outdoor Furniture and Equipment Before Fall Moves

When most people think about moving, they picture boxes, wardrobes, and heavy furniture being carefully packed inside the home. But what about the items sitting outside? Outdoor furniture, grills, fire pits, lawn equipment, and seasonal play structures often get overlooked until the last minute. Unfortunately, these items can be damaged easily if not properly prepared for a move.

With cooler weather approaching and summer winding down, September is the perfect time to think about how to safely move your outdoor belongings. With the help of third-party moving services like Alliance Relocation Services, you can make sure your patio sets, grills, and equipment arrive at your new home in excellent condition.

Why Outdoor Furniture and Equipment Need Special Care

Unlike indoor furniture, outdoor items face two challenges when moving:

1. Exposure to the elements – Over time, outdoor furniture can develop rust, mildew, or sun fading. If these aren’t treated before a move, the damage may worsen in transit.

2. Size and fragility – Grills, patio umbrellas, and lawnmowers have awkward shapes, removable parts, and delicate components that can easily be damaged without proper disassembly and packing.

Treating these items with the same care as your indoor valuables ensures they’ll be ready to use as soon as you set up your new outdoor space.

Steps to Protect Outdoor Furniture

1. Clean Thoroughly Before Packing
Give patio tables, chairs, and cushions a good wash before moving. Wipe down metal frames to remove dirt and rust. Clean cushions and let them dry completely to prevent mold.

2. Disassemble When Possible
Many outdoor tables, swings, and chairs can be partially disassembled. Removing legs, glass tops, or umbrellas makes items easier to pack and less likely to break.

3. Use Protective Covers
If you don’t have original packaging, wrap furniture in moving blankets or furniture pads. For delicate glass surfaces, custom crating is the best option to avoid cracks.

4. Store Cushions Separately
Fabric cushions should be packed in plastic covers or sturdy boxes. Moisture can ruin them, so avoid storing them in damp or poorly ventilated spaces during the move.

Safely Moving Grills and Fire Pits

Grills are a staple of summer, but they require careful preparation before moving:

• Remove propane tanks. Movers cannot transport propane, so you’ll need to use or safely dispose of the gas before moving day.

• Clean the grill. Scrape off food residue and empty ash catchers to avoid messy surprises during the move.

• Detach removable parts. Side trays, wheels, or covers should be packed separately.

Fire pits and chimineas should also be cleaned out completely and wrapped securely in blankets or custom crates if made from stone or ceramic.

Lawn and Garden Equipment

Tools like lawnmowers, trimmers, and power washers require different preparation:

• Drain fuel and oil. Gas-powered tools must be emptied before transport.

• Clean off dirt and grass clippings. Not only does this reduce mess, but it prevents insects or weeds from being transported to your new yard.

• Bundle small tools. Rakes, shovels, and hoes can be tied together and wrapped to keep them from shifting.

Seasonal Play Equipment

If you have kids, items like swing sets, trampolines, or playhouses may also need to be moved. These large items are best disassembled and carefully labeled. A third-party service can handle disassembly and reassembly so your children’s play area is ready in your new home.

Why Use Third-Party Moving Services?

Most moving companies only transport boxes and furniture—they don’t disassemble, clean, or prepare specialty items. That’s where Alliance Relocation Services comes in. We provide:

• Custom crating for fragile glass tabletops and ceramic items.

• Professional disassembly and reassembly for play structures, grills, and furniture.

• Expert packing and protection to prevent scratches, dents, or breakage.

By relying on specialists, you can rest assured your outdoor furniture and equipment are packed properly and ready to enjoy in your new backyard.

Tips for a Smooth Transition

• Plan ahead. Start preparing outdoor items a week before your move.

• Label everything. Mark boxes or bundles so you know which items belong outside.

• Schedule reassembly. Arrange for services at your new home to rebuild play equipment or reinstall outdoor furniture.

• Inspect after arrival. Check for damage right away so any issues can be addressed quickly.

Final Thoughts

Outdoor furniture and equipment may not be the first things you think about when planning a move, but they deserve just as much care as your indoor belongings. By cleaning, disassembling, and packing these items properly, you’ll protect your investment and enjoy a seamless transition into your new home.

With Alliance Relocation Services, you don’t have to worry about the details. From custom crating to safe disassembly and reassembly, we ensure that your outdoor living essentials are protected every step of the way.