One of the things that makes moving such a pain (literally) is moving those bulky and heavy objects that have been mainstays in your old home. These cumbersome things typically include sofas, mattresses, large pieces of furniture, etc. Getting them out of your old home and into your new home can be a challenge, but that challenge can be mitigated some when you use proper moving techniques. Check out our tips to make this common moving issue easier to manage.
Plan the move: Moving as a whole can be much easier when a detailed plan is created for it. This plan can include when you need to start packing, when to turn off/on utilities, etc. Your plan should also include how you are going to move those heavier belongings. Before your moving day arrives, be sure to see how you will move your couch or refrigerator. Will it fit through the right door or will something need to be removed? Will you need more than two people to move it? These are all questions that, if left to answer at moving day, will make the process much tougher. Put together a good moving plan ahead of your moving day and avoid planning the day of.
Break it down: Some heavier objects might be moved easier if they can be broken down. This can include dining tables, different chair types, bed frames, etc. Couches can also be “broken down” by simply removing as many cushions as possible. You can even use those cushions as pillows to fill empty space, especially in a 1-800-PACK-RAT portable storage container. Contents can shift no matter what moving service you use, so be sure to fill in empty space to avoid that possibility! If you can break down heavier items, it can make the space filling task easier.
Know the weight and spread it out: Some moving services might have a weight limit on the amount of stuff you can move in a single vehicle or container. If moving a fridge or a bed and box spring, that weight limit can quickly be reached! If you are using a 1-800-PACK-RAT container, check out our container weight limits to plan your move accordingly. Also, be sure to evenly spread the weight out across the container or truck bed. Over packing on one side can also lead to content shifting. Instead of having to make multiple trips or have multiple vehicles if you don’t have enough space, leave the driving to us and we will deliver as many containers as you need right to your door!
Leverage the right moving tools: There are many tips, tricks, and hacks you can use to make moving easier, especially when it comes to moving heavy items. Adjustable moving straps make moving things such as sofas, bulky chairs, and much easier by leveraging your leg and shoulder muscles instead of all the weight being on your back. This leaves your hands free to control and move items with more precision. Use a sturdy hand dolly to move tall and heavy items. A hand dolly not only helps physically, but it will make it easier to get taller items through doors, as they can be leaned back to avoid hitting the frame. As always, use the buddy system when moving heavier objects!
Protect your furniture and house: Avoid having to patch holes, repaint, resurface, or refinish furniture by protecting both your old/new home and furniture. You can wrap your furniture and other heavy objects in furniture blankets to avoid scuffing or damaging the walls as you move. Also consider laying down blankets, old carpet, or clean cardboard underneath your heavy items as you move them to keep your floors scuff-free!
With these tips, you will be well on your way to reducing the back-breaking work that is moving your heavier items. Give 1-800-PACK-RAT a call today if you are planning an upcoming local or long-distance move. Our all-steel, weatherproof containers are perfect for any move size, and we can even store your stuff if you need the extra space. No matter your moving or storage needs, 1-800-PACK-RAT has you covered!