Moving Heavy Items

How to Safely Move Heavy Objects in Your Next Move

Moving heavy objects during a home relocation can be a daunting task, but with the right approach and techniques, you can minimize risks and ensure a smoother process. While we would always suggest you simply hire Georgia Home Movers and leave all the details up to us, we also will offer here a comprehensive guide on how to safely move your heaviest belongings.

Be aware, a DIY approach is not always your best bet for moving around Atlanta – hire Georgia Home Movers, and you will learn firsthand why our professionalism matters!

1. Preparation is Key

Assess Your Inventory - Before moving day, take inventory of your heavy objects. Common heavy items include furniture like sofas, beds, dressers, and appliances such as refrigerators and washers. Understanding what you need to move will help you strategize.

Measure Everything - Measure your heavy items and the doorways, hallways, and stairs they'll need to pass through. This will help you determine if the item can fit through these spaces and whether you’ll need to disassemble anything.

Gather Supplies - Having the right tools and supplies is crucial. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Dollies: A furniture dolly (two wheels) for large items and a hand truck (four wheels) for appliances.

• Moving straps: To help lift and stabilize heavy items.

• Padding: Blankets or furniture pads to protect surfaces.

• Tape: For securing padding or disassembling furniture.

• Gloves: To protect your hands and improve grip.

2. Plan Your Route

Clear the Path - Ensure that the path from the item’s location to the exit is clear of obstacles. This includes moving smaller items, decorations, and furniture out of the way. A clear path reduces the risk of tripping or damaging other belongings.

Decide on the Best Technique - For each item, decide on the best way to move it. For instance, some items may require lifting, while others must be rolled on a dolly. Assess your strength and that of any helpers before beginning. Know how your dollies, straps and winches function properly.

Rather not deal with it? Call Georgia Home Movers, and we’ll take care of everything you need to safely move into or out of the greater Atlanta area.

3. Lifting Techniques

Teamwork - If an item is too heavy for one person, enlist help. Make sure everyone is on the same page about the plan and technique to avoid injuries. This is a crucial step to avoid injury.

Proper Lifting - When lifting heavy items, remember these tips:

• Bend at the knees: Keep your back straight and lift with your legs, not your back.

• Get a good grip: Ensure you have a firm hold on the object before lifting.

• Keep the load close: Hold the item close to your body to reduce strain.

• Don’t twist: Move your feet instead of twisting your body to change direction.

4. Using Equipment Effectively

Dollies - To use a basic (not an appliance) dolly:

• Tilt the item: Lean the item back to place it on the dolly.

• Secure it: Use straps to secure the item to the dolly.

• Push, don’t pull: It’s safer to push a dolly rather than pull it, reducing the risk of losing balance.

Moving Straps - Moving straps can help distribute the weightof an item. Here’s how to use them:

• Position the straps: Place the straps under the item, ensuring they are centered.

• Lift together: Coordinate with your partner to lift at the same time, using your legs for power.

5. Dealing with Obstacles

Stairs - Moving heavy items up or down stairs can be particularly tricky. Here’s how to navigate this safely:

• Two-person lift: One person should be at the top and the other at the bottom. The person at the bottom should lead the way.

• Take your time: Move slowly, making sure everyone is stable before proceeding.

• Use a stair dolly: If available, a stair dolly can make this process significantly easier.

Doorways and Hallways - When maneuvering through tight spaces:

• Remove obstacles: Take off doors or trim if necessary.

• Tilt the item: Sometimes tilting a piece of furniture can help it fit through a narrow opening.

6. Disassembling Furniture

For particularly cumbersome items, disassembling them can make moving much easier:

• Take apart large items: Beds, shelves, and certain tables can usually be disassembled into smaller parts.

• Keep track of hardware: Use labeled bags to store screws and small pieces to avoid losing them.

7. Loading the Truck

Balance and Weight Distribution - When loading your moving truck, distribute weight evenly:

• Heaviest items first: Load the heaviest items on the bottom and towards the front of the truck to maintain balance.

• Secure everything: Use straps to secure items and prevent them from shifting during transport.

8. Protecting Yourself

Listen to Your Body - Pay attention to how you’re feeling throughout the move. If you start to feel strained or fatigued, take a break. It’s better to ask for help or take additional time than to risk injury.

Stay Hydrated - Heavy lifting can be physically demanding, so make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day.

9. After the Move

Inspect Your Belongings - Once you’ve moved everything into your new home, take time to inspect your heavy items for any damage. This is especially important for appliances, as internal components may have shifted during transport.

Arrange Furniture - Before unloading heavy items, have a plan for where they will go in your new home. This can save time and energy, as you won’t need to move them multiple times.

Protect Yourself, and Your Belongings

Moving heavy objects requires careful planning, the right tools, and teamwork. By following these steps and prioritizing safety, you can make your move more efficient and enjoyable. Always remember: if an item feels too heavy or cumbersome, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Your well-being is the most important factor in any move.

If you truly want to stay healthy and happy during your move, skip the DIY approach and simply call Georgia Home Movers, and you will see why we are the best moving company in metro Atlanta.