Moving large furniture with the assistance of friends and family can be quite a tough job. However, relocating it all by yourself is a different level of activity. It is feasible, but it helps to be familiar with the proper strengths to complete it securely. As this can be a potentially challenging endeavor, we have created a short guide revealing how to move heavy furniture.
Our guide discusses strategies for setting up the space and safely hoisting heavy furniture. Be mindful that even though we recognize that you can move everything yourself when staircases or arduous lifting is involved, requesting another person to assist is suggested.
The best solution is to apply to a professional moving company like Move4U. A team of experienced movers will help you to solve all your moving issues, so you won’t have to waste your time and energy on it.
Anyway, if you need some pieces of advice regarding moving heavy furniture, here they are.
Take away any blockages that might be in the way
One of the essential pieces of advice for someone moving heavy furniture by themselves is to clear the area of anything that might make them trip or stumble. This could range from toys, shoes, packing material, or boxes that are in the way.
Additionally, it would be best to keep pets in a place where they can’t get out and ensure that children aren’t running around in the house.
Pay attention to your outfit when deciding to carry heavy furniture safely
That’s quite obvious, but we will remind you. Avoid any flip-flops or high heels. Select footwear with a closed toe and a non-slippery sole so an item won’t injure your foot if dropped.
For your upper and lower body garment, wear light, comfortable, and air-permeable garments. We bet you don’t want them to tear if they are overly snug, so opt for an oversize one.
Ensure that your possessions and property remain unscathed by wrapping objects in plastic or bubble wrap
Furniture coverings, such as plastic covers designed explicitly for sofas and chairs, are ideal for protecting upholstered furniture. If you don’t have these covers, that’s not a problem – old blankets or sheets will suffice.
Place furniture pads on the undersides of your pieces to avoid scuffing or damage to your floors and walls. Tape pieces of cardboard along the walls, particularly in the corners, to prevent further scratches or indentations.
You can use bubble wrap to protect glass surfaces and mirrors. Tape an ‘X’ formation on the item with the painter’s tape to avoid shattering if broken. Wrap the glass thoroughly, paying particular attention to the corners.
Place the item between two sheets of corrugated cardboard afterward. When it comes to wooden items, you may opt for more protective gear, like a thicker material, such as a moving blanket, and use bubble wrap as an additional layer. Corrugated cardboard can help complete the coverage.
Stretching is key
No jokes! We are completely serious when we say this: you wouldn’t jump straight into weightlifting or running a marathon without stretching, so why would you omit stretching when moving furniture? This task requires using your entire body. It can easily cause pulled muscles or back injuries if you’re not careful.
Loosen your limbs, back, legs, and arms through stretching before beginning to avoid harm. So, don’t be shocked if your body is sore and exhausted by the end of the day. Stretch once more after you are done and take a breather. If you are really exhausted, consider taking a warm bath or using a heating pad.
Read about moving techniques
It is crucial to keep in mind more than just lifting with your legs when moving furniture. Squat down with bent knees, and do not twist your body. Remain balanced by keeping the object close to you. Most importantly, ensure you have a good view of what is in front of you.
Remove the details
Refrain from moving heavy items like you take part in a weightlifting competition. Think of ways to lighten the burden before picking things up. For example, remove all its shelves if you are relocating a dresser or desk.
Consider disconnecting the wooden legs of a couch before transferring it as well. Think ahead and assess how to make the objects lighter before carrying them.
Use additional equipment
- Moving straps. If you’re trying to figure out how to manage a bulky item, use moving straps or lifting straps. They will provide a way to disperse the weight evenly to keep any strain off your back and legs.
- Work gloves. The good idea is to put on some work gloves to protect yourself and your property. The gloves are also helpful if the furniture has any sharp edges, and they can stop dirt or oil from getting onto your items.
- Ramps. Instead of attempting to lift a heavy piece of furniture, go ahead and use ramps. They will make it simpler and safer to put it in places with a higher elevation, e.g., a truck bed or a moving truck.
As you can see, trying to move heavy furniture is challenging! You must be in good physical condition, stretch your body before the start, ensure that kids and pets are in other rooms, and consider many other factors.
If you want to avoid dealing with all these, it’s better to use the services of a local moving company. For example, if you live in Chicago or the surrounding area, it could be Move 4U company. Their services will make this process easy and stress-free for you, so it’s definitely worth it.