You’ve probably seen movies or TV shows in which the main characters try to move furniture and fail hilariously (scenes of furniture hurtling down flights of stairs or getting stuck around corners seems to be a comedic goldmine).
While the scene might make you laugh, you definitely don’t want that to happen to you in real life. Read on to learn safety tips for moving furniture so that you protect yourself and your property.
Get the Right Equipment
Take a good look at that solid bookcase – you know, the one that your Aunt Ruth left you. It’s made of oak, and it’s at least 70 years old.
“Well, if I take everything off of it, the bookcase should be much lighter,” you say to yourself. “Once it’s empty, I just tilt it and I’ll be good to go.”
If you want to move the bookcase (or any other heavy furniture), you need the right equipment. A dolly, furniture slides and lifting straps are all crucial to ensuring your furniture doesn’t become damaged and you don’t hurt your back.
Lift Properly
Have you ever heard someone tell someone else, “Lift with your legs!” That’s not just some old wives’ tale – it’s actually good advice.
Moreover, you should lift gradually. Don’t make jerky movements – you’ll hurt yourself. And keep your back straight. That will reduce injuries.
Carry Carefully
You should carry tall or long items (such as filing cabinets, sofas and wardrobes)at an angle. And don’t do it by yourself – these pieces of furniture are heavy.
Large chairs and recliners are cumbersome, which is why you should carefully flip the chair on its side and hook the back around the doorway.
Don’t Rush and Don’t Overdo It
When you’re moving furniture, it’s important to take your time. Rushing leads to mistakes, which in turn lead to injuries to your body and damage to the furniture.
Also, don’t lift more than an amount with which you’re comfortable. Moving furniture isn’t a weight-lifting contest, and you shouldn’t do it to impress someone. If the furniture is too heavy for you, put it down and call in professional movers. There’s no shame in hiring outside help. In fact, it’s better to call a moving company than to hurt yourself because you were too proud to admit the job was too big for you to handle.
Orbit International Moving Logistics Ltd.: Your Moving Experts
Do you have furniture that you need to move? Contact Orbit International Moving Logistics Ltd. today. Our experienced, professional moving crew knows how to safely move furniture without injuring themselves or damaging your property. We work carefully and efficiently to make sure the job is done right, the first time. Our moving crew brings all of the right equipment and materials to the site – you don’t have to worry about a thing. When you choose Orbit, you have peace of mind that your property will be transported safely. To learn more, contact us today at 416-661-4228.
