When you invest in secondhand furniture, especially high-quality pieces, a smooth delivery can be the difference between a stress-free upgrade and a moving-day headache. That’s where white-glove delivery comes in. This premium service handles everything from transportation to placement in your room of choice. But even the best delivery crews need a little help from the recipient to ensure everything goes according to plan.

If you’re expecting a white-glove delivery soon, here’s how to prepare like a pro. From certificate of insurance (COI) requirements to elevator bookings and room clearances, every detail counts.

What Is White-Glove Delivery?

White-glove delivery is a high-end service that includes careful handling, unpacking, assembly, and placement of furniture. Unlike curbside or threshold delivery, white-glove service ensures the item is brought inside, set up properly, and packaging is removed.

It’s especially useful for larger pieces like sectionals, buffets, or vintage cabinets that require careful handling and setup. But to make the most of this service, you need to do your part in advance.

1. Understand COI Requirements

Many apartment buildings, condos, and office complexes require a Certificate of Insurance (COI) before allowing any delivery personnel on site. This document confirms that the delivery company carries liability insurance in case of damage to the building or injuries during the process.

How to Prepare:

• Check with building management as early as possible to confirm whether a COI is needed.

• Get the exact COI template or requirements from your property manager or concierge. These typically include the building’s name, address, and required coverage amounts.

• Send this information to your delivery provider at least a few days in advance, so they can generate the COI and send it directly to your building.

Skipping this step could result in a canceled or delayed delivery, especially in buildings with strict access rules.

2. Book the Elevator in Advance

If your furniture is being delivered to an upper-floor apartment or condo, it’s crucial to reserve the service elevator. This ensures the delivery team can move large items without long waits or disrupting other residents.

Why Elevator Booking Matters:

• It guarantees exclusive elevator access during your delivery window.

• It prevents conflicts with other residents who may be moving on the same day.

• It helps the delivery team stay on schedule, avoiding extra labor costs.

Best Practices:

• Reserve the elevator at least 2–4 weeks before your delivery date.

• Inform the delivery company of your booked time window so they can coordinate accordingly.

• Double-check with your building whether a damage deposit or paperwork is required.

• Reconfirm your reservation a few days before delivery.

3. Clear the Room Beforehand

One of the most overlooked steps in white-glove delivery is making sure the path to the destination room is completely clear. This step is about more than just convenience. It protects your belongings and the delivery crew from accidents.

What to Do:

• Remove clutter and fragile objects from hallways, stairs, and entryways.

• Clear the room where the new item will be placed. Make space for the crew to maneuver and assemble if needed.

• Measure all doorways, hallways, and elevator openings to ensure the item can pass through.

• If necessary, temporarily relocate pets or children to keep them safe during the delivery window.

Taking time to prep your home ensures a smoother experience and reduces the risk of damage to your walls, flooring, or new furniture.

4. Double-Check All Measurements

Before your delivery team arrives, make sure you’ve done your homework with a tape measure. Measure not just the final placement area, but also the access points.

Key Measurements to Take:

• Entry doors (height and width)

• Elevator doors and interior dimensions

• Stairwells (especially tight turns or landings)

• Room size and furniture footprint

Confirm that your new furniture will fit through all access points and in the designated space. Delivery teams can only do so much on the spot, and tight squeezes can lead to scuffed walls or returned items.

5. Communicate Building Rules and Constraints

If you live in a managed building, communicate any relevant rules to the delivery company. These might include:

• Time restrictions on when deliveries can occur (common in high-rise apartments)

• Access points that must be used (like a rear service entrance or loading dock)

• Special instructions for parking, buzzer codes, or elevator usage

Sharing these details ahead of time helps the delivery team plan for a smooth and respectful arrival.

6. Confirm Contact Information and Availability

Delivery issues often stem from something as simple as incorrect contact information or no one being home at the scheduled time.

Before Delivery Day:

• Confirm your phone number is correct and include a backup number if possible.

• Make sure someone over the age of 18 is available during the full delivery window.

• Avoid last-minute schedule changes unless absolutely necessary.

A little preparation avoids missed deliveries and ensures that your white-glove service actually feels seamless.

7. Final Prep on Delivery Day

On the day of delivery, make sure your phone is charged and nearby. If your delivery involves assembly, have tools like a box cutter or floor protection on hand, just in case.

You should also:

• Reconfirm elevator availability with your front desk or management

• Clear driveways or loading zones near your building

• Keep pets secured and kids at a safe distance

• Inspect the furniture upon arrival and note any damages immediately

Once the delivery team arrives, trust them to handle the heavy lifting. They’ve done this hundreds of times, and white-glove delivery means they’ll take the time to do it right.

Why It All Matters

At Reperch, we believe great secondhand finds deserve an equally smooth delivery. Whether it’s a vintage credenza, a designer sectional, or an upcycled dining table, preparation is key to getting it home safely. COIs, elevator bookings, and a little home prep may seem tedious, but they can make all the difference in your white-glove experience.

The better prepared you are, the more effortless the delivery feels and the sooner you can enjoy your new favorite piece in its new home.

Need help finding a secondhand piece worth the white-glove treatment?
Explore our curated collection at Reperch and get ready for furniture delivery made easy.