I’ve scored some incredible pieces for our home on Facebook Marketplace—everything from chandeliers to consoles, cozy couches to dreamy beds. But there’s always one major hurdle: how do you get those amazing FBMP finds home when you don’t have a truck?
After shopping for years on FBMP, here are some of my tips for getting those finds back home safely!
Plan for Transportation
- Assess the Size of the Item: Measure the item or ask the seller for dimensions to ensure it fits in your vehicle.
- Borrow or Rent a Larger Vehicle: If your car isn’t big enough, consider renting a truck or asking a friend with a larger vehicle for help. Many rental companies offer affordable hourly rates for vans or trucks. We usually will rent a box truck or pickup truck from Home Depot for $25 for abut 90 minutes if it’s a short distance.
Bring Necessary Equipment
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- Protect Your Vehicle: Use blankets, tarps, or towels to protect your car from scratches or dirt.
- Straps and Bungee Cords: Bring ratchet straps, bungee cords, or rope to secure the item if it won’t fit fully inside your vehicle.
- Dollies and Carts: If the item is heavy, a dolly or hand truck can make loading and unloading much easier.
- Furniture Sliders: I like to use these furniture sliders to move heavy furniture across a floor without scratching it.
Enlist Help
- Bring a Friend: Large or heavy items often require two people to move safely.
- Hire Movers: For especially heavy or bulky items, consider hiring a moving service or TaskRabbit helper to assist with transportation and setup.
Check the Pickup Location
- Driveway or Garage Access: Ask the seller if they can have the item ready in a driveway, garage, or easily accessible spot to simplify loading.
- Parking Options: Make sure there’s space to park close to the pickup spot.
Prepare for Disassembly
- Take Tools: Bring basic tools (like a screwdriver or wrench) to disassemble furniture if needed. Confirm with the seller beforehand whether disassembly will be required.
- Pack Small Parts Safely: Use a bag or container to store screws, bolts, or other small pieces so they don’t get lost during transport.
Consider Delivery Options
- Ask the Seller: Some sellers may be willing to deliver the item for an extra fee. Confirm this arrangement in advance.
- Delivery Services: Check local delivery options through apps like Dolly or GoShare if you don’t have a way to transport it yourself. I’ve used GoShare before and love it. I’ve even used it for large furniture pieces from stores like Home Goods before. They’re usually only the transportation, though, so don’t rely on them to disassemble or carry anything.
Be Safe
- Meet During Daylight: Always pick up items during the day for better visibility.
- Bring Someone With You: For safety, bring someone along, especially when picking up from a private residence. If you do have to go alone, tell a friend the address and consider keeping them on the phone when you are there.
With a little preparation, you’ll have no problem getting your Marketplace finds home safely!
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