Moving furniture can be a daunting prospect, whether you’re shifting a single piece across the room or relocating your entire household to a new home. Not only is it physically demanding, but it also requires careful planning to prevent damage to your items and the surrounding environment. This guide will walk you through some important tips for safely moving furniture from A to B.
Plan Ahead and Prepare
Before you begin moving anything, take a moment to plan the process. Identify the pieces of furniture that need to be moved and assess any obstacles in the path. Are there narrow doorways, staircases, or tight corners that might pose a challenge? Clear the area of any items that could get in the way. If you’re moving to a new location, it’s a good idea to measure the space in advance to ensure your furniture will fit.
Additionally, if you’re moving furniture long-distance or need assistance, services like Shiply Shipping can connect you with professional movers and delivery services, providing a convenient and safe way to transport larger items.
Gather the Right Equipment
Having the proper tools is essential for moving heavy furniture without causing injury or damage. Some useful equipment includes:
- Furniture Sliders: These are put under the legs of your furniture, allowing you to glide the pieces across floors without scraping or scratching the surface.
- Dollies or Furniture Carts: These are perfect for lifting heavy items, particularly when you need to transport them over a longer distance.
- Moving Blankets: Wrapping your furniture in thick moving blankets will protect it from scratches, dents, and other damage.
- Straps and Ropes: To secure furniture during transport, straps and ropes can prevent items from shifting or falling over in transit.
Disassemble When Possible
If your furniture can be disassembled, take the time to do so. Larger items like beds, wardrobes, or tables can often be taken apart into smaller, more manageable pieces. This makes them easier to carry and lessens the risk of damage. Make sure to keep all screws and bolts in labelled bags, so you can easily reassemble the items later.
Use Proper Lifting Techniques
When lifting heavy furniture, it’s important to use the correct technique to avoid injury. Bend your knees, not your back, and lift with your legs rather than your arms. If possible, get help from a friend or family member to share the load. Avoid dragging furniture across the floor, as this can damage the furniture and the floor itself. Instead, use sliders or a dolly to move the item.
Secure Items During Transport
If you’re transporting your furniture in a van or truck, make sure everything is secured in place. Use ropes, straps, or even bungee cords to prevent items from shifting around during transit. If the furniture is not properly secured, it could get damaged or cause harm during the journey.
For long-distance moves, professional shipping services can ensure your items are transported securely. Many of these services offer insurance, giving you peace of mind that your furniture will arrive at its destination safely.
Protect Your Furniture and Property
As you move furniture through doorways or up stairs, take extra care to protect both the furniture and your property. Use padding around door frames, walls, and corners to prevent accidental damage. You can even invest in corner protectors or furniture pads to safeguard both the furniture and the walls.