Budget Moving Guide: Safely Relocating your Adjustable Bed Frame.
Adjustable bed bases have become one of the most popular bedroom upgrades in recent years. Whether you own one of these brands & bases: The Serta Motion Perfect Adjustable base, Tempur-Pedic adjustable frame, Sleep Number FlexFit, Ergomotion adjustable base, or any other type of power-adjustable base model. These systems add comfort, pressure relief, massage functions, zero-gravity positioning, and customizable sleep support — and yes they are great for when it comes to sleep hygiene, putting a stop to your partner’s ogre like snoring, getting those full 6 to 8 hours of sleep every night; but they’re an absolute nightmare when it comes time to relocate them from one household to the next. Especially if your new residence comes with a nice big set of stairs!
But when it comes time to move, many homeowners quickly realize something important:
Adjustable bases are not moved the same way as traditional bed frames, and we’ve actually spoken with many employees that work for furniture companies that sell these Adjustable Bases — such as Ashley’s Furniture, IKEA, and Rooms-To-Go whose main jobs are to deliver these adjustable beds, set them up for customers, and they will even inform you that once it is set in that specific location that they are not allowed to move it due to the motor being held in place by almost nothing, and the locking brackets and other equipment responsible for moving the head of the furniture up and down are not built to accommodate the type of pressure that gets put onto the motor, the base, and other pieces for these mechanical and adjustable headboard bases.
These furniture companies that sell these Tempur-Pedic and Sleep Number Adjustable bases have stated that moving it from its original location almost immediately VOIDS your warranty, and we’ve been told by many sources they’re actually made for maybe two moves in total — and one of those is the move from the warehouse to your residence.
They are not built like the standard bed sets that are able to be disassembled and reassembled multiple times without putting too much wear and tear on the furniture items. The “old school” bed sets that most people are use to consist of the headboard, footboard, and sideboards; and they are built to withstand the pressure and stress from multiple moves, being disassembled, reassembled, and moved around multiple times. These mechanical components that are in these fancy “Zero-Gravity Adjustable Bed Frames” are not designed for multiple moves and sometimes messing with the specific parts on the motor or the base will automatically void your warranty!
Unlike standard metal rails or platform beds, adjustable mattress bases contain:
- Electric motors
- Articulating joints
- Lift actuators
- Wiring harnesses
- Control boxes
- Upholstered decking
- Heavy steel support systems
Improper handling during a move can damage motors, bend articulation points, disconnect wiring, or even void manufacturer warranties.
The good news is that most adjustable bases can absolutely be moved safely with the right preparation and transport method.
This moving guide gives you the insider information from one of our current employees who used to deliver and setup these adjustable beds — and we needed to share this information for all the fellow adjustable bed frame friends out there, and we’ve turned this into a great moving guide and have wrote down and followed his instructions down to a science on exactly how to move an adjustable bed base safely, and this guide applies to both local moving and long-distance moving.
What Is an Adjustable Bed Base?
An adjustable base is a motorized bed frame designed to raise and lower various sections of the mattress. Most modern models allow users to elevate:
- The head
- The feet
- Lumbar support
- Massage sections
Some luxury adjustable bases also include:
- USB charging ports
- Bluetooth controls
- Under-bed lighting
- Smart sleep tracking
- Preset memory positions
- Wall-hugger functionality
Because of their internal mechanical systems, these beds require extra care during transportation.
Can Adjustable Bed Bases Be Disassembled?
In most cases, adjustable bases are only partially disassembled, and some premium models (Queen Sized Bases aren’t made to be moved) — WHY? HOW? That’s what we’re here to discuss because after years of working with them you finally find a way to safely move these mechanical bed frames.
Unlike traditional furniture, they are not designed to come completely apart into small pieces, such as a standard bed frame is designed to do.
However, most models allow removal of:
- Legs
- Retainer bars
- Headboard brackets
- Power cords
- Control boxes
- Remote systems
Some adjustable bases also feature:
- Folding transport hinges
- Split deck sections
- Locking transport pins
Many queen-size and king-size adjustable frames are originally shipped folded from the factory. Some can return to this folded configuration for moving, but the moment you mess with these hinges, You’ve completely VOIDED your warranty; so it’s best to take your time and make sure it’s done by the proper furniture moving company the first time so nothing is damaged during the process.
Other models remain rigid and must be transported upright or flat (pictured above)
The Biggest Mistakes People Make When Moving Adjustable Bases
Moving an adjustable frame incorrectly can cause serious damage.
The most common mistakes include:
Dragging the Base
Dragging places stress on:
- Motors
- Deck hinges
- Upholstered corners
- Structural welds
Always lift and carry adjustable bases properly.
Carrying by the Moving Sections
The head and foot articulation panels are not structural carrying points.
Lifting from these areas can:
- Bend actuators
- Misalign moving components
- Damage synchronization motors
Always carry from the outer steel frame rails.
Forgetting to Remove the Legs
Many adjustable bases become dramatically easier to move once the legs are removed.
Leaving legs attached:
- Increases tipping risk
- Makes doorways harder
- Adds instability during transport
Transporting Without Straps
Articulating sections can shift during braking or turning.
If the moving sections move freely:
- Use ratchet straps carefully
- Secure the deck in a flat position
- Avoid overtightening
How to Prepare The Adjustable Bed Frames Base For Moving
Proper preparation is the key to preventing damage.
Step 1: Flatten the Base Completely
Before unplugging the bed:
- Lower both head and foot sections fully flat
- Reset any elevated positions
Transporting a partially raised base can damage the motors and articulation system.
Step 2: Disconnect Power
Unplug:
- Power cords
- Power bricks
- Surge protectors
- USB accessories
Secure loose cords using zip ties or painter’s tape.
Step 3: Remove the Mattress
Never move the adjustable base with the mattress attached.
Memory foam and hybrid mattresses can:
- Shift unexpectedly
- Add dangerous weight
- Increase stress on articulation points
Step 4: Remove Legs and Accessories
Most adjustable base legs unscrew by hand.
Also remove:
- Retainer bars
- Headboard brackets
- Side rails
- Remote holders
Store hardware in labeled bags.
Step 5: Inspect for Folding Hinges
Some adjustable bases fold at the center.
Look underneath for:
- Hinge plates
- Locking pins
- Folding brackets
- Transport clips
If your frame folds:
- Fold slowly
- Secure it with moving straps
- Never force resistance
Do Adjustable Bed Bases Fold in Half?
Some do — some do not.
Many modern adjustable bases use one of three designs:
Fully Folding Transport Design
These models fold near the middle for easier shipping and relocation.
Common features include:
- Center hinges
- Transport locking pins
- Folding support arms
These are easier to move through:
- Stairwells
- Tight hallways
- Apartment elevators
Semi-Folding Adjustable Bases
These partially compress or articulate inward but do not completely fold.
These are common in:
- Mid-range adjustable frames
- Upholstered power bases
- Queen adjustable beds
Rigid Adjustable Frames
Some luxury adjustable bases remain mostly solid.
These require:
- Upright transport
- Careful padding
- Multiple movers
These are often the heaviest models.
The Safest Way to Carry an Adjustable Base
Professional movers typically transport these adjustable bases vertically. Both in the van, and when moving from the truck to the specific room. This keeps the motor from having the natural weight and gravitational force pushing down on it; because as mentioned earlier there is not much holding the motor into its specific position.
➔ THIS IS WHERE YOU SHOULD EITHER GRAB PAPER AND A PEN OR GET READY TO SCREENSHOT THESE STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
Why Vertical Transport Works Best
Moving upright:
- Reduces flexing
- Improves doorway clearance
- Minimizes stress on articulation joints
- Protects the motors underneath
The safest position is usually:
- Upright on the long edge
- Slightly tilted backward
- Fully padded
How to Move an Adjustable Base Through Doorways
Doorways are one of the hardest parts of moving large adjustable frames.
Best Method
Professional movers use a “book turn” technique:
- Rotate vertically
- Pivot slowly through corners
- Protect corners with moving blankets
NEVER DO ANY OF THIS WHEN MOVING THE ADJUSTABLE BEDS BASE:
- Twist the frame aggressively
- Force the bed through openings
- Bend articulation sections for clearance
Moving Adjustable Bases on Stairs
Stairs are where most damage occurs.
Adjustable bases are:
- Heavy
- Unevenly weighted
- Mechanically sensitive
Best Practices for Stairs
Use AT LEAST 2 Strong Movers
Most queen adjustable bases weigh:
- 200+ pounds
King models can exceed:
- 250+ pounds
Use Shoulder Straps
Professional-grade moving straps:
- Improve weight distribution
- Reduce dropping risk
- Prevent twisting
Popular systems include:
- Forearm Forklift straps
- Shoulder Dolly straps
Keep the Base Upright
Carrying upright:
- Protects the motors
- Reduces torque stress
- Improves stair maneuverability
How to Protect Adjustable Base Motors During a Move
The motors are the most expensive and fragile components.
Areas Most Vulnerable to Damage
- Lift actuators
- Control boxes
- Massage motors
- Wiring connectors
- Lumbar articulation systems
Tips for Safely Moving An Adjustable Bed Frame Base:
Wrap the Underside
Use:
- Moving blankets
- Foam padding
- Stretch wrap
Protect exposed motor housings from impacts.
Avoid Pressure on the Center
Never stack heavy items directly on top of the adjustable base.
Pressure can:
- Bend moving sections
- Damage motors
- Misalign synchronization systems
Secure Loose Components
Tape or zip-tie:
- Power cords
- Remote cables
- Connector wires
Loose wiring can snag during loading.
Best Truck Placement for Adjustable Bases
Proper truck positioning prevents shifting damage.
Ideal Placement
The safest transport setup is usually:
- Upright against a side wall
- Fully padded
- Strapped tightly to E-track or rails
This minimizes:
- Sliding
- Bouncing
- Corner impact damage
Never Put Heavy Furniture or Heavy Boxes on Top of The Adjustable Bed Frame
Avoid stacking:
- Dressers
- Appliances
- Boxes
- Mattresses
- Heavy items more than 10-15lbs
Can Adjustable Bases Be Damaged Easily?
They are durable — but not indestructible.
Most adjustable beds are built with:
- Steel frames
- Industrial actuators
- Reinforced decking
However, damage commonly occurs from:
- Dropping the bed frame / base
- Twisting of the adjustable base
- Improper lifting & uneven transit
- Transportation without moving straps
The most expensive repairs involve:
- Control systems
- Motor replacement
- Synchronization failures
Should You Hire Professional Movers such as Budget Moving Services or other Relocation Services?
For many homeowners, the best answer to this question is yes — look at it from this POV: if you can afford to purchase a $1700.00 adjustable bed frame that you will likely use everyday for 10-15+ years— then it’s worth it to hire professionals to move your delicate furniture for $150–$220 an hour. There are many moving companies who will assist you by only moving specific items that need the extra attention to properly move, and let them handle everything that is not in a moving box or plastic bin; and save yourself the stress! Budget Moving Services offers labor-only services that does exactly that — and will move only the specified items you need us to move and it’s much less expensive than the full-service move but you still get the worry-free benefits of using a moving company on the larger, expensive, bulky and heavy items. Have a move coming up and want to know how much it would cost you to just have the professionals help you with moving only the larger items such as bed, adjustable bed frames, dressers, and other large household goods? Contact us directly at (561)-788-5070 today and get a free quote in under 3 minutes!
It is 100% worth the price of hiring experts so you can continue to have your furniture delivered in working condition and have it for 10+ years or more.
Professional movers experienced with adjustable bases understand:
- Proper lifting points
- Safe carrying orientation
- Stair techniques
- Motor protection
- Truck securement
This becomes especially important for:
Adjustable Base Moving Checklist
Before moving your adjustable bed base:
✔ Flatten the base completely
✔ Disconnect all power
✔ Remove mattress
✔ Remove legs
✔ Secure loose cables
✔ Inspect for folding hinges
✔ Use moving blankets
✔ Carry from steel frame rails only
✔ Keep upright during transport
✔ Strap securely inside truck
Final Thoughts
Adjustable bed bases are one of the most valuable and sensitive pieces of furniture in many homes. While they may look intimidating to move, most can be transported safely with proper preparation and handling.
The key is understanding that adjustable bases are not traditional bed frames. They contain precision components that require:
- Proper lifting
- Proper orientation
- Proper protection
Whether you are moving across town or across the country, taking the time to prepare your adjustable base correctly can help prevent:
- Motor damage
- Structural bending
- Wiring failures
- Expensive repairs
If you are unsure how to move your adjustable base safely, working with experienced movers, such as the moving crews from Budget Moving Services — can save you significant time, stress, potential replacement costs, or even having to replace an entire piece of furniture due to one small & simple mistake.
