A sofa that will not fit through the stairwell, a wardrobe that has to go up three floors: that is what a furniture lift is for. A lift like this brings your belongings in through the window or balcony, without anyone having to carry them up the stairs. But when do you really need one, and what do you need to arrange beforehand?
How does a furniture lift work?
A furniture lift is an extendable ladder with a platform that moves up and down along it. The lift sits on a trailer or is built onto a lorry and is set up in front of the home. The ladder goes up at an angle to a window, balcony or roof terrace. Belongings go up on the platform and are lifted inside at the top.
When is a furniture lift useful?
You do not need a furniture lift for every move. It is mainly useful if:
- you live on an upper floor or are moving to one, especially from the second floor up;
- the stairwell is narrow or steep, or has a turn that large furniture cannot get round;
- there is no lift in the building, or the lift is too small for furniture;
- you have large or heavy items, such as a corner sofa, wardrobe, piano or American-style fridge freezer;
- you want to protect the stairwell, for example in a building with a shared, smart entrance.
Even for a ground-floor move, a lift is sometimes needed, for example if something has to come in through a balcony or roof terrace. On the other hand, a few boxes to the first floor are perfectly manageable on the stairs.
What determines whether a lift will work?
Not every home is suitable for a furniture lift. Check these things beforehand:
- Windows or balcony. There has to be an opening that furniture can pass through. Tilt-and-turn windows often do not open far enough. Sometimes a window can be taken out, but you need to arrange that in advance and possibly discuss it with the landlord or the owners' association (VvE).
- Space in front of the home. The lift must be able to stand close enough to the front of the building. Trees, lampposts, overhead cables, a front garden or a narrow pavement can get in the way.
- Height. Furniture lifts have a maximum height. Tall buildings sometimes need a different solution.
- Ground. The lift has to stand steadily, on firm and fairly level ground.
Do you need a permit or exemption?
If the lift stands on the public road, the pavement or in a parking space, many municipalities (gemeenten) require permission. That can be a notification, an exemption or a permit for using public space. How it works, what it costs and how long the application takes varies by municipality. In a busy town centre the rules are often stricter than in a quiet residential area.
So check your municipality's website, search for "verhuislift" (furniture lift), "ontheffing" (exemption) or "gebruik openbare ruimte" (use of public space), or call the municipality. Apply a few weeks before your moving date. Sometimes you also need to have parking spaces reserved or cordoned off, so the lift and the removal van can stand close to the door.
If you are moving to or from a flat, you can read more about lifts, stairs and parking in moving into a flat.
Preparing for the day itself
- Measure your largest pieces of furniture and compare them with the stairwell and the window.
- Let the neighbours know there will be a lift outside, especially if it passes their windows.
- Make sure the window or balcony is clear: curtains, plants and things on the windowsill out of the way.
- Take out fly screens and make sure the window can open.
- Check the weather forecast. In strong winds a lift sometimes cannot be used safely.
Furniture lift or movers on the stairs?
With a lift, things often go faster on a high floor, and there is less chance of damage to walls, banisters and furniture. On a low floor, with a spacious stairwell or with few large pieces of furniture, carrying works fine. If in doubt, have someone take a look before you decide.
Through the free moving check, you discuss with GD Verhuisbedrijf the best way to get your belongings into your new home, and whether a furniture lift is needed. You can read how moving day itself goes in moving day from start to finish.
Frequently asked questions
From which floor do you need a furniture lift?
There is no fixed limit. From the second floor up, with a narrow stairwell or with large furniture, a lift is often handy. On the first floor you can usually manage without.
Do you need a permit for a furniture lift?
If the lift stands on the public road or pavement, often yes. Whether it is a notification, exemption or permit varies by municipality. Check your municipality's website well before your moving date.
Can a furniture lift reach any window?
No. The window must open far enough or be removable, and the lift must be able to stand close enough to the building. Have this assessed in advance.
