Navigating Unique Moves

Relocating a home is more than just moving furniture—it is about overcoming challenges and making the process as smooth as possible for our customers. At Elliott International, we have handled all kinds of moving situations, but one that stands out took place on the slopes of Table Mountain in Cape Town.

I remember conducting an export survey at a home perched high on the slopes of Table Mountain in Cape Town. Accessing this property was no simple task. Due to the steep incline leading to the house, the homeowners had installed an incline lift tram elevator, making it possible to reach their home without having to climb countless stairs. While the lift was a convenient daily feature for the homeowners, it proved to be a game-changer for our relocation process.

When moving day arrived, our team faced the challenge of transporting furniture and packed cartons down to our vehicle safely. Fortunately, the incline lift allowed us to bypass the physical strain of carrying heavy items down a steep gradient—something that would have been particularly hazardous in Cape Town’s unpredictable winter rain. The lift was covered, which meant that the furniture and cartons remained dry throughout the process.

To further protect our customer’s belongings, we used thick plastic sleeves to cover the furniture and cartons during their short journey between the home and the lift, as well as from the lift to our vehicle. Additionally, plastic sleeves were draped over the doors of the shipping container to shield the contents from Cape Town’s infamous wind and rain.

Among the consignment was an upright piano, which required a custom-built solid plywood crate for added protection. Luckily, it fitted perfectly into the lift, avoiding the need for additional equipment or manual handling on steep terrain. Another delicate item—a crystal chandelier—required special packing. We suspended it inside one of our large cartons, carefully surrounding it with polystyrene chips to prevent movement. For extra security, we built a solid plywood crate around the carton to ensure its safe transport.

Thanks to the lift’s efficiency, we were able to complete the move within a shorter timeframe while eliminating the need for additional costs associated with stair carries, long carries, or a shuttle vehicle.

Beyond the logistics of moving, we pride ourselves on the small details that make a big difference to our customers. In this particular move, the homeowner was especially pleased to see the level of organisation in our inventory listing. Each of her children’s rooms was clearly marked by name, making unpacking at the destination a breeze. It is just one of the many ways we go above and beyond.

At Elliott International, every move is unique, and we approach each one with the same level of care, precision, and expertise. Whether navigating challenging terrain, handling delicate items, or ensuring that boxes are labelled correctly, we take pride in making moving as effortless as possible.

If you are planning a move, no matter how complex, trust Elliott International to handle it with professionalism and care.