Avoiding Injuries on Moving Day

Reasonable Box Weight

Pack you moving boxes to be under 50 pounds. If you are unsure about the weight, try lifting the box, or keep a bathroom scale nearby to actually weigh the box. You should be able to easily lift the box without straining.

Also, take into account whether that box must be carried up or down stairs. It is far better to make a few extra trips with lighter boxes than to fall down a flight of stairs with an overly packed box. Don’t underestimate gravity! In addition, remember to lift the box properly, which is to bend your knees and lift with your entire lower body. Avoid bending over from the waist and lifting with your upper body.

Use the Right Equipment for the Moving Task

By renting and using appropriate moving equipment, you will avoid straining your back as you move the heavier, bulkier items. A dolly or furniture skis will make moving couches, dining cabinets and other items much smoother. Use straps to secure stacked boxes and furniture to the dolly or to assist with moving larger items.

Double Check for Potential Danger Spots

Prior to moving day, double check your old and new home for any possible danger spots. These could be cracks in the sidewalk or walkways. If you have steps up to the front door, you may want to highlight them with sidewalk chalk for visibility. Other hazards can include poles, posts, low hanging tree branches, or self-closing gates. Mark these with brightly colored ties or remove the obstacles altogether.

If there is a chance of rain on moving day, read more here for specific safety ideas for rainy days.

Moving Day Safety Tips

• Wear appropriate clothing and shoes. Loose sleeves or shirttails can get caught or snagged. Your shoes should be supportive, durable footwear with good grip, especially for wet surfaces. Avoid open-toed shoes. Sandals offer no protection from a dropped box, and you certainly don’t want broken toes on moving day.
• Ensure the high-traffic areas are clear of boxes and other obstacles. If possible, separate the heavier boxes from the lighter boxes packed with fragile items. Have all items that need to be taken apart ready with their parts sealed in plastic bags and taped tightly to the item to avoid losing them.
• If you have friends and family helping rather than professional movers, organize everyone and give each person a specific role. This will not only help with a smoother move, it will help avoid collisions. Assembly lines work well with one or two people at the truck to load as the boxes and furniture are brought out.
• If you have young children, consider hiring a sitter to watch them and keep them out of the way. In addition, have a safe space for your pets, such as a bathroom with the door closed. Put several towels and familiar items in for them to keep them calm during the excitement.
• Keep an emergency kit on hand with bandages, aspirin and antibiotic ointment. Hopefully, you won’t have any serious accidents, but sometimes a blister can be very painful. A band aid can go a long way in that situation.

Lastly, keep a good sense of humor throughout the day and enjoy yourself as much as you can!