The idea of Craigslist is great in theory. An open marketplace for any goods or service to be exchanged in a peer-to-peer format— it seems so simple. But anyone that has used the site knows that sifting through blurry, poorly lit photos and coordinating ill-timed pickups can make buying furniture on the site a logistical headache.

Four friends experienced this problem four years ago when they moved from the East Coast to San Francisco. The experience spawned Move Loot, a service that picks up, refurbishes, sells, and delivers furniture to prospecting buyers.

Move Loot has been operating in Atlanta, Charlotte, Raleigh-Durham, and the Bay Area until last week when the two-year-old company announced its launch in Los Angeles and New York.

Move Loot avoids the online clutter of Craiglist by being more selective in what they sell. With 6,000 items listed on the site, the company has rejected nearly a third of incoming sellers. But, the quality and convenience comes at a price since the company holds on to 50% of the sale price.

The quick expansion to LA was made possible by the company’s “hub and spoke” distribution method. The current furniture supply for Los Angeles is actually furniture from San Francisco held in central California. Meanwhile, Move Loot has opened a warehouse in East LA where they prepare and house items for short intervals.

“LA represents one of the largest markets in the country in population and for used furniture,” Los Angeles GM Georgie Thomas said. “We’re all very excited for the next few months and we think there is a huge growth path in front of us.”

By working with local designers and bloggers, Move Loot put a local twist on its launch party. All of the products that were designed and shown at the party were then put up for sale on the site. According to Thomas, highlighting and working with local businesses will be a major part of the company as it progresses.

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