The last thing you want, or need, is an injury while moving. Hoisting bulky boxes and moving unyielding objects isn’t exactly what the doctor ordered. In the rush to pack and move on a deadline, many people fail to consider the health risks associated with a move. Take proper precautions with the tips below to prevent moving day injuries.
Lifting Heavy Boxes
Time constraints aren’t that pressing if you are exchanging your health and being laid up for six weeks. Plan ahead. Stretching before lifting and hauling will relax your muscles and help prevent injuries. Test an object before attempting to move it yourself. Don’t strain, and call friends if it’s more than you can handle. When lifting boxes or furniture follow the rules below.
- Stand with feet hip distance apart
- Bend at knees, not the waist
- Lift with the legs, not the back
- Keep object as close to your body as you physically are able
- Don’t twist while lifting
- Lift smoothly and slowly, do not jerk
Use Appropriate Tools
Moving supplies were invented for a reason. Use dollies, hand trucks and moving straps to make it easier on yourself, even if you are Superman. A few essentials are below.
- Furniture Dolly: A four-wheeled horizontal platform used to transport furniture. Can typically support up to a thousand pounds safely. Use straps or cargo ropes to secure item before moving
- Handtruck: A vertical, two-wheeled cart that easily transports tall standing appliances such as refrigerators or high stack of boxes.
- Moving Straps: Straps are used to secure an item onto a dolly or a truck. Straps redistribute the weight, lowering center of gravity making it easier to lift.
- Sliders: Pads that are placed under the four corners of a piece of furniture to easily slide across a room
- Stair Rollers: Rollers that are attached to the stairs for heavy objects to be carefully rolled down the flight of steps.
Moving Bulky Items
- Push rather than pull
- Keep footing secure
- Clear path before you transport items, check for loose rugs or tripping hazards
- Be sure floors are dry to prevent slipping and lay cardboard down if raining
To have it moved for you, contact Connecticut’s Finest Movers. Friendly and courteous staff will load or unload your truck, making your move smooth and effortless. Call today.
