How to buy furniture online

Measure the room and the path in

Measure the space and mark the footprint on the floor with tape. Leave room to walk around it.

Measure doorways, hallways, stairs and elevators. A sofa that fits the room can still fail to get through the front door.

Materials and build

Solid wood and plywood frames generally last longer than particleboard. For sofas, look at frame material and cushion fill.

Read the listing's dimensions, weight capacity and materials rather than relying on photos.

Delivery and assembly

Check whether delivery is curbside or to your room, and whether assembly is needed.

For large items, understand the return process and who pays return shipping before you buy.

Quick checklist

• Will it fit through every doorway on the way in?
• Are the materials and dimensions listed clearly?
• What kind of delivery is included?
• What does a return cost for a large item?

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