What to Empty and Measure Before Dresser Removal
Empty every compartment, identify loose parts, and compare the dresser with each doorway and stair turn.
Empty means every drawer and shelf
Remove clothing, jewelry, documents, liners, and anything taped behind a drawer. Set aside drawer keys and label loose shelves. A dresser listed as one bulk item by a municipal program may be counted differently when its drawers are removed, so check the current local rule.
Measure the piece and the pinch points
Record height, width, and depth. Measure the narrowest doorway, the clear width at stair rails, and the ceiling height over turns. Note attached mirrors, stone tops, glass, or a shifting back panel.
Leave the lifting plan to the crew
Do not drag a loaded dresser or tip a tall wardrobe alone. Share clear photos and access notes so the provider can decide whether disassembly or extra handling is needed.
Buffalo residents should check the City of Buffalo’s current Streets and Sanitation guidance for municipal bulk-item rules. Other municipalities set their own rules.