Man and woman sit on the floor with a tablet planning where furniture will be placed during a move.

How to Create a Floor Plan for Your Move

One way to help a moving day go smoothly is to create a floor plan for your new home. Making the floor plan ahead of time assures you only move furniture that will fit the new house. The plan also helps the movers know where to put the furniture.

Here are the steps to creating a floor plan for your move.

1. Know the Dimensions

The first step in creating a floor plan is knowing every room’s dimensions. Measure every wall and map the location of elements such as doors, windows, and counters. The most accurate wall measurements will come from measuring as close to the floor as possible. The best way to measure windows is from the outer frame.

Also, measure the height of the ceilings.

2. Measure Your Furniture

Now, you measure the dimensions of each piece of furniture or appliance that you plan to move.

3. Decide Whether to Map by Hand or App

The next step is to decide whether to map by hand or use an app.

Mapping By Hand

Those who are mathematically inclined may enjoy creating a floor plan by hand. The easiest way to map by hand is to create to scale using graph paper. For example, you might make each square equal to six inches so that two squares equal one foot in the room. For instance, if the room is 20 feet by 15 feet, you will draw a shape on graph paper that is 40 squares by 30 squares.

Then, using the same scale, cut paper into the size and shape of the furniture. For example, if the sofa is 7 feet long by 3 feet deep and 2 1/2 feet high, you’d cut a shape the length of 14 squares, a depth of six squares, and a height of five squares. Once you’ve cut out the shapes, you can move them around in the room until satisfied, then tape or glue them into place.

Mapping With an App

Many people will find using an app more accessible. Several apps exist for drawing floor plans, many of which are free or free for a trial period. A few of the most popular are:

  • SketchUp offers a free version.
  • RoomSketcher also provides a free version that allows you to do a limited number of projects.
  • Floor Plan Creator is free for one project.
  • Foyr Neo is an interior design software designed for professionals. It has a 14-day free trial.

4. Develop a Floor Plan for Your Needs

A floor plan works best when it meets your and your family’s needs, regardless of whether it is trendy or would make the cover of a design magazine. For example, if you like to have friends over, design more seating configurations than might be typical. If you have collections, allow enough room to show them off properly.

5. Note What Else You’ll Need

As you’re drawing your floor plans, you may need additional items, such as more lamps in rooms that don’t have overhead lights. Make a note of what you’ll need and go shopping for it after your move.

Set to Move

You’re probably excited to relocate now that your floor plan is well on its way. We can help with your move. Contact us for a free quote.