Here's How to Pack A Rug for Moving

Turn the Rug Upside Down

First things first: Ensure your floor is clean before tackling the first step, as this could negate your entire preparation process. Then, turn the rug over so the rug pile side is facing down. This step will help prevent the backing from overstretching and cracking. 

Roll the Rug Tight

Starting from the shorter side, roll the carpet against the grain of the pile. Do this action slowly, taking time to ensure that the roll is as tight as possible.

To find the direction of the nap or rug pile, run your hand over the area rug’s surface. One direction will feel smooth and the other will give you resistance. The direction that gives you resistance is the direction you should roll. 

Tie Rug With Rope or String

Once the rug is rolled as tightly as possible, wrap both ends with a piece of rope or heavy-duty string. Make sure it’s tight enough to keep the roll together but not so tight that it leaves an indentation. 

Do not use packing tape to secure the rolled area rug, as this could lead to irreversible damage when trying to remove it.

Wrap the Rug

Use kraft paper or plain newsprint (no ink) to wrap your rug. The thick layer of paper will act as a protective barrier between your rug and the moving truck. It’ll also allow you to place it on the ground as necessary during the moving process without worrying about it getting dirty. If you don’t have kraft packing paper, you can also wrap your rug using old bedsheets or quilts, which is cost-effective when moving several large area rugs.

Contrary to popular belief, you should not use traditional plastic wrap to wrap your rug. Plastic wrap can trap moisture and lead to mold or mildew. When you see rugs wrapped in plastic at the store, they’re wrapped using special plastic bags that have air vents that let moisture out. You can use these if you want to purchase them from a specialty store.

Store the Rug Horizontally

Place your wrapped rug in the horizontal position in the moving truck, as the upright position can cause irreversible damage. When the rug is vertical for long periods of time, it starts to bend, creating permanent creases. It’s always best to store a rug rolled up and lying flat on its side.

Ensure not to stack anything on top of your rug, as heavy boxes and items could permanently harm your rug’s structure. It’s helpful to lay your rugs down along the sides of the moving truck so they don’t take up too much space. You might also be able to carefully place your rug on top of your items, but the entire surface must be flat.

You don’t want the rug hanging off of anything, as it could create a permanent bend or crease. We also recommend tying your rug in place with a rope or string so it doesn’t roll around when the truck is traveling. When moving antique or delicate area rugs, make sure the temperature isn’t too hot and the truck is well-ventilated.

Unpack the Rug

Bring the rug out of the truck and into the room where you’ll be using it or store it in another clean, dry space. Keep your rug rolled up and lying down horizontally on its side until you’re ready to unroll it.

Use a pair of scissors to cut the rope or string that kept the rug rolled up. Be careful not to cut the rug or its fibers. Slowly unroll the rug. The floor space should be free of boxes and furniture, allowing you to position the rug how you’d like it. 

Clean and Flatten the Rug

If the corners or other parts of your rug curled during the move, place furniture or heavy boxes in those areas to help flatten the rug. You may want to vacuum the rug to give it a fresh start in its new home, especially if you notice any debris.