Organizing a move can be overwhelming whether you’re handling it yourself or using affordable moving company. Often, safety gets overlooked but it’s important—there are many hazards involved in packing and moving.
Let’s avoid the common moving injuries like stubbed toes and back pain. Here are some safety moving tips to help ensure your next move goes smoothly!
Safety Tips Before Moving Day
Clear the Way
When you’re moving heavy boxes or furniture, it’s tough to watch where you’re going. To prevent accidents, make sure all paths are clear. Start by removing any trash and clutter. Then, ensure there are no objects lying around that could trip you up.
Make a Plan
Don’t just wing it on moving day. Set up a clear plan ahead of time. Decide on the best time to start, figure out how you’ll arrange items in the moving truck or van and choose the best path for getting everything out of your house.
Invest in Quality Moving Supplies
Don’t skimp on your moving supplies. Using weak boxes and low-quality tape can not only be annoying but also dangerous. Imagine carrying a heavy box of books when suddenly it breaks open. That’s a recipe for injury!
Besides sturdy boxes and reliable tape, consider getting other helpful moving gear. Furniture pads are excellent for protecting your items and can also prevent floor damage when you’re sliding furniture around.
A dolly is invaluable for moving several boxes at once or for transporting a heavy piece of furniture without having to lift it. Investing in the right tools can make your move safer and smoother.
Pack Smart
When it comes to packing, it’s smart to spread out the heavy items among several boxes. This way, no box is too heavy, reducing the risk of back strain when lifting. Always reinforce the bottom of your boxes with an extra layer of tape for added security.
Bubble wrap is also a great investment for your move. It’s perfect for wrapping sharp objects, protecting glassware, and cushioning your items during transit to prevent damage.
Consider Getting Moving Insurance
Accidents can happen during a move, and it’s wise to be prepared. Moving insurance can offer you extra protection in case of unexpected problems.
For instance, Chicago Movers Near Me provides various insurance plans tailored to different moving needs. If you’re using a different company, make sure to explore their insurance options to find coverage that fits your budget and gives you peace of mind.
Think About Getting Some Help
Moving is much easier when you have extra hands. Consider asking friends or family to help you move. It might cost you a nice lunch but it will save you from a lot of physical strain.
If you prefer professional help but want to avoid the hassle of traditional moving companies, make sure to book your moving help a few weeks in advance. This way, movers have time to fit you into their schedule. Waiting too long might lead to higher fees or you might not be able to book them at all.
Safety Tips for Moving Day
Stay Hydrated
Moving is physically demanding, so it’s crucial to keep hydrated. Make sure you’re drinking water and eating regularly throughout the day. A good rule of thumb is to drink about one cup (7-10 ounces) of water every 10-20 minutes of activity. Also, try to drink about 17-20 ounces of water a couple of hours before you start moving.
Not staying hydrated can cause muscle fatigue and make you less coordinated, increasing your risk of injury. Since moving is often done in the summer, there’s also a higher risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Keep an eye on how much water you’re drinking to stay hydrated and safe.
Dress Appropriately for Moving Day
It’s important to wear the right clothes when you’re moving:
- Choose sturdy athletic shoes for good support.
- Opt for light, breathable fabrics to keep cool.
- Wear clothes with pockets to keep essentials handy.
- Avoid loose clothing that might snag on furniture or doors.
- If you have long hair, tie it back to keep it out of the way.
Also, make sure to check the weather forecast on moving day so you can dress appropriately for the conditions.
Stretch Before You Start
Before you begin moving, it’s smart to do some stretches, just like you would before any physical activity. Here are a few simple ones to try, holding each for about 30 seconds:
- Touch your toes
- Do some lunges
- Circle your arms
- Rotate your hips
- Twist your trunk
You can also find stretch routines on YouTube for more guidance. Don’t skip this step; your body will appreciate it!
Keep Kids & Pets Safe
As much as we love having our little ones around, they can make moving trickier. It’s best to arrange childcare for young children on moving day. Keep pets in a separate room with the door closed to prevent them from escaping or getting underfoot.
Clear Your Path
During a move, things can get messy quickly. To make the process smoother and safer, make sure to clear a pathway. This will help you move items in and out of the house easily without any obstacles.
Proper Lifting Techniques
You’ve probably heard “lift with your legs, not your back” but here’s how to do it:
- Stand with your feet hip-width apart.
- Keep your back straight to avoid strain.
- Bend your knees to lower yourself down to lift.
- Hold the item close to your body to keep your balance.
- Instead of twisting your torso, pivot with your feet to change direction.
- Take small steps to maintain stability.
- Remember to breathe normally to keep your muscles relaxed and oxygenated.
Avoid Lifting with Preexisting Injuries
If you’ve had injuries before, especially to your back or other parts of your body, it’s best to avoid lifting heavy objects (Couch, Bed or other heavy furniture) during the move. It might feel like you’re not contributing as much, but it’s important for your safety. If possible, ask others to help with the heavy lifting to ensure a smooth and injury-free move.
Take Your Time
Although you might want to finish your move quickly, it’s important not to rush. Move at a steady pace when carrying heavy items and allow yourself to take breaks whenever necessary. This will help you avoid accidents and manage your energy throughout the day.
Be Cautious About Sharing Your Move Online
It might seem strange but it’s important to be careful about what you share online regarding your move. Keep the details private and only share them with people you trust. Avoid posting pictures of your new home’s exterior or detailed moving plans on social media. This helps prevent potential thieves or others with bad intentions from targeting you during this busy time.
Keep a First Aid Kit Handy
No matter how careful you are, small injuries can still happen during a move. It’s smart to have a first aid kit ready so you can quickly handle any cuts, scrapes or other minor injuries. Make sure it includes essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes and pain relievers. You can also buy pre-assembled first aid kits at most stores.
Moving involves a lot of details but your safety should always be a priority. At Chicago Movers Near Me, we’re here to support you every step of the way, ensuring you can focus on staying safe while we handle the heavy lifting.
