Cord Moving and Storage recommends reserving cargo space near the top of the van or truck for the mattress.Foam mattresses are more flexible than traditional mattresses, and you may think they are easier to move. However, foam requires special packing and handling to prevent damage during transit. Most foam mattresses have two or more layers that are sandwiched together. Improper packing and handling can separate the layers and tear the foam. Although most foam mattresses arrive from the manufacturer compressed into a small box, don’t try to fold, compress or roll one to repack it in the original container. After the mattress reaches its destination, unpack it as soon as possible.
1 Close one end of a mattress shipping carton that is sized to fit your mattress, and seal it with packing tape. Transporting a mattress in a box that is too large allows shifting and possible damage, and a too-small box can crush the mattress. Lay the box on the floor with the open end near one end of the mattress.
2 Slide the open end of the box around the end of the mattress. If possible, keep sliding the box until the mattress is inside. In many cases, you need to lift and adjust parts of the mattress as you slide the box. The mattress should lie completely flat inside, with no folds or wrinkles.
3 Seal the open end of the box, and transport the mattress flat. Do not stand the box upright on any edge.
Things You Will Need
- Mattress moving carton
- Packing tape
Tip Foam mattresses stick to many surfaces. If the mattress sticks to the box, wrap the mattress in large sheets, which allows it to slide in easier. Don’t wrap the mattress in plastic, especially if the mattress will travel for more than a day, as plastic can trap moisture and encourage mold or mildew growth.
- If the mattress must be moved down a flight of stairs or around another obstacle where the box can’t remain flat, carry the mattress past the obstacle before packing it.
- Warning Standing a cartoned foam mattress on edge may cause the foam layers to separate, which is irreparable damage. If a moving company is transporting the mattress, mark the box to let the movers know that the mattress must remain flat at all times. Turning the box upright even once can let the foam slide and crush inside the box, and it may remain that way for the entire transport.