Furniture Access | The English Bed Company
One of the most frustrating challenges when ordering a new bed is discovering it won’t fit through your doorway, up the stairs, or around a tight corner. To help you avoid this, we’ve put together a step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth delivery and setup.
Before You Start
Grab a tape measure (and maybe a cup of tea and a biscuit!) and take a few minutes to read through this guide. A bit of planning now can save a lot of hassle later.
1. Measure Your Bed & Mattress — and Your Access Points
What’s Included in a Standard Bed Frame
Our bed frames typically arrive flat-packed in sections for easier access and include:
- 1 Headboard (largest component)
- 2 Side Rails
- 1 Footboard
- Centre Support Rail
- Slats
⚠️ Storage beds vary slightly — see below for more detail.
Headboard Dimensions
Headboards are often the biggest challenge for access. We offer two common heights:
134 cm or 155 cm, with widths ranging from UK Single to Emperor (215 cm). Some headboards may be wider than the bed size due to design features like wings, so it’s essential to measure carefully.
Record the headboard dimensions of your chosen bed:
- Headboard Height:
- Headboard Width (including any wings):
Mattress Dimensions
All mattresses follow UK standard sizes (Emperor 215 x 215cm). For super king and emperor, we offer Zip & Link options, which allow the mattress to split into two pieces for easier access.
- Mattress Width:
- Mattress Depth:
- Zip & Link (Super King / Emperor only): Yes / No
2. Know Your Storage Bed Type
Storage beds are only available from Double to Super King size. They are not available in Single or Emperor sizes and only on beds upholstered to the floor (not on tall legs).
Gas-Lift Ottoman Beds
- Supplied in several components, including the gas-lift mechanism in a separate boxed part.
- The gas-lift frame will need assembling on delivery. Note: If you selected assembly on arrival, our couriers will do this for you!
- Access checks are still essential to ensure a smooth installation.
Divan Bases (With or Without Drawer Storage)
- Delivered in two separate upholstered divan-style base sections, which are generally easier to move than other storage types.
- Each base section is a solid upholstered unit, so adequate space is still needed to manoeuvre them — especially in larger sizes like king or super king.
- Full access consideration is essential, particularly on narrow staircases and tight landings.
3. Check All Entry & Access Points
Doorways & Hallways
Measure the clear space in all doorways and halls the bed will pass through:
- Doorway Height > Headboard Width?
- Doorway Width > Headboard Depth?
- Narrowest Point in Hallway > Headboard Height?
Look out for:
- Radiators
- Skirting boards
- Shelving
- Door closers
- Light fittings
Stairs
If your bed needs to go upstairs:
- Staircase Width > Headboard Height?
- Space Between Bannister & Ceiling > Headboard Depth?
- Landing Clearance > Headboard Width?
⚠️ Winged headboards, Emperor and larger storage components may require extra attention.
Lifts / Elevators
If using a lift:
- Lift Height > Headboard Height?
- Lift Width > Headboard Width?
- Lift Depth > Headboard Depth?
4. Visualise the Delivery Path
Walk the exact route from the delivery vehicle to the bedroom. Consider:
- Tight corners or awkward turns
- Furniture or fittings that limit door opening
- Narrow landings or half landings
- Low ceilings or stairwell light fixtures
Clear the route before delivery day to make things easier.
5. Consider Removable Features
- Zip & Link Mattresses (Super King and Emperor only) help with tight access points.
- Winged Headboards may have bolt-on wings, allowing them to be detached during delivery.
- Most bed components are flat-packed, apart from divan bases which arrive in two parts.
If unsure, contact our team for clarification on your specific bed.
6. Plan for a Smooth Delivery
What to Do
- Clear all obstacles from hallways, stairs, and the room itself.
- Ensure pets and children are safely out of the way.
- Make sure someone is available to receive and guide the delivery team.
Our experienced 2-man White Glove Delivery Team will handle and carry the furniture into your chosen room. If you chose assembly on arrival they will assemble your bed for you — but it’s your responsibility to ensure access is suitable.
Alternative Routes
If standard routes are too tight, consider:
- A different door (back door, patio door)
- Large windows
These must be pre-arranged and fully accessible on the day of delivery.
Final Tip
Measure twice, move once.
Taking a few minutes to check these steps now can save hours of frustration later.