A product may fit its intended space yet fail to pass through the stairwell. Measure two different situations: getting it into position and using it with doors open, connections attached and necessary clearances available.
Measure usable space rather than ideal space
Measure width, height and depth at several points. Skirting boards, projecting sockets and uneven walls can reduce the space actually available. Record units and label which side each measurement describes. Compare your notes with a dimensioned drawing of the exact model. Body depth and total depth including handles are not always identical. Connections can need additional room. Take ventilation and maintenance clearances from the manual instead of inventing a universal allowance. Built-in products also depend on mounting, front panels and specified connection arrangements. A small mathematical surplus is not a substitute for checking the actual installation conditions.
Divide the route into separate obstacles
Walk from the unloading point to the final position and record each restriction. Include the entrance, lift doorway, lift cabin, stair landing and hallway corners. The narrowest doorway is not the only concern: a long object also needs space to turn. Ask for packed dimensions and the condition in which the product will be delivered. An assembled display item may require a different route from flat-packed furniture. Removable legs or handles help only when removal is intended and practical. Do not base your plan on removing doors or parts of the building without agreement from the delivery service and people entitled to authorise that work.
Allow for movement in the final position
Check that drawers can extend and doors open far enough. A fridge beside a projecting wall may fit neatly but prevent an internal drawer being removed. An office chair needs movement space; a table needs room for sitting down and getting up. Mark the planned footprint with paper or removable tape suitable for the floor. Add the areas occupied by moving parts. Put unresolved questions on a simple sketch and send it to the supplier before ordering when necessary. If a measurement is missing, do not guess from a photograph taken in perspective. One accurately checked dimension can prevent far more work than an optimistic estimate.
Common questions
Which dimensions should I request?
Ask for complete product dimensions including projections and the transport dimensions. For assembled furniture, establish which components are intended to be removed.
Can the delivery box simply be removed?
Not automatically. Packaging protects the item during handling and may be part of the delivery arrangements. Agree how the particular obstacle can be negotiated safely.
