Moving day can be an exciting yet stressful time. There’s a lot to think about, from packing up all your belongings to making a move itself. And amid all the chaos, it’s easy to forget about safety.
Safety should always be a top priority when moving to a new home. There are many potential hazards, and taking the necessary precautions to protect yourself and your belongings is crucial.
But taking a few simple precautions can help ensure everyone stays safe on moving day. With some planning and preparation, moving day doesn’t have to be so stressful and unsafe. Want some tips on choosing a moving company? Click here
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When choosing Horizon Movers and Climate Control Storage, you don’t have to worry about anything. We are a local moving company to take care of everything for you – from packing your belongings to safely transporting them to your new home. We want to make the moving process as stress-free as possible for you. Read our moving hacks for our top tips.
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Here are the 13 Essential Safety Tips for Moving Day:
The moving process can be prone to various unavoidable circumstances like accidents. Here are some essential moving day safety tips for you:
1. Pack heavy items in small boxes
Packing your heavy items into big moving boxes may be tempting, but this is a recipe for disaster. If a package is too heavy, it can be challenging to carry and may cause you to drop it. It could damage your belongings or, worse, injure you.
2. Use good-quality moving materials
This moving safety advice is often overlooked but is very important. Use sturdy moving boxes and tape to protect your belongings during the move. Cardboard containers are also a good choice for lightweight items.
You will also need some moving supplies. It includes things like:
- moving boxes
- packing tape
- cardboard boxes
- bubble wrap
- packing paper
- labels
Avoid second-hand moving boxes as they may not be as strong. You will be safer, and your belongings will be better protected if you use new materials.
3. Double tape box bottoms
Double tape the bottom of each box to prevent boxes from breaking and your items getting damaged. It will help reinforce the base and prevent it from giving way under the weight of the contents. Double tape is also a good idea for any box that will be stored for an extended period. This safety tip will help keep your belongings safe and secure during the move.
4. Use proper moving equipment
Make sure you have the appropriate equipment for the job. It includes renting a moving truck the right size for your belongings and a moving dolly, a hand truck, and other devices to make moving heavy objects easier.
5. Use furniture sliders for heavy lifting
Furniture sliders will make moving heavy furniture much more manageable and help prevent injuries. Lifting with your legs, not your back, is vital to avoid strain. Use furniture sliders to move heavy objects across carpeted surfaces with ease. Sliders are also a good choice for hardwood floors. They will help protect your floors from scratches and dents.
6. Get help when lifting heavy boxes
Lifting heavy items by yourself is a recipe for disaster. It is the most common cause of injuries during a move. Getting help when lifting heavy objects is essential to avoid strain or injury. If possible, have someone hold the item while you lift it. It will help distribute the weight evenly and make it easier to carry. Be sure to ask for help from friends or family when moving these items. It will be safer and will help prevent injuries.
7. Be careful on stairs
Carrying items up and down stairs can be dangerous. Be sure to hold the handrail with one hand and the thing with the other when going up and down stairs. It will help to keep you balanced and prevent accidents. If possible, have someone else help you carry the item. It will help to avoid accidents.
Be extra careful when carrying items up or down stairs in high traffic areas. Use caution and be aware of your surroundings to avoid accidents. Stairs can be slippery and dangerous, so be sure to take your time and use caution when carrying items up or down them.
8. Clear the path
Before moving any furniture or boxes, clear the path of any obstacles. Clear random moving boxes or scattered stuff along the way, and protruding tree branches may get in your way and cause you to trip.
Also, ensure that the entryway to your new home is clear of any obstacles so you can quickly move your belongings inside. It will help prevent accidents and personal injuries.
9. Take breaks often
Moving is exhausting, so take frequent breaks often to rest and stay hydrated. It will help you avoid injury and keep your energy levels up. Make sure you have plenty of snacks and drinks to keep you going throughout the day.
10. Listen to your body
If you start to feel dizzy, lightheaded, or nauseous, stop what you are doing and take a break. It is essential to listen to your body and take breaks when you need them. Continuing to push yourself when you are exhausted can lead to accidents.
11. Ready your first aid kit
First aid kits are essential, especially during the move. You can never predict when an accident might happen, so it’s always best to be prepared for any minor injuries by having a first aid kit on hand. It should include:
- bandaids
- gauze
- antiseptic wipes
- Hydrogen peroxide or alcohol
- bandages
- antiseptic cream
- pain relievers
- ice packs
- tweezers
- scissors
12. Keep your pets safe
If you have pets, keep them out of the way during the move. They can quickly get underfoot and become injured. It is best to keep them in a separate room or crate during the move. It will help to keep them safe and out of the way.
13. Hire professional movers
It is one of the essential safety tips for moving day. Professional moving companies use proper moving equipment. Their professional movers or workers are experienced in lifting heavy objects and safely moving your belongings. They will also be insured in case of any accidents.
With these moving safety tips, you can rest assured that your move will go smoothly and safely. Follow these tips to avoid any accidents or injuries during your move.
Common Accidents During Moves
Accidents are unavoidable events that happen during a house move. The most common accidents during the activity are:
Falling while carrying heavy boxes – This usually happens when people try to bring too many packages at once or when the boxes are too heavy.
Tripping over obstacles – This can be prevented by clearing the path and being aware of your surroundings.
Slipping on wet surfaces – This is more common in winter moves. Be sure to wear appropriate shoes and take your time when walking on slippery surfaces.
Slipping and falling down the stairs – This is one of the most dangerous accidents during a move. Be sure to take your time and use caution when carrying items up or down stairs.
Hitting your head on low door frames or ceilings is common when people are not paying attention to their surroundings. Always be aware of your surroundings and duck down when you need to.
Dropping and breaking fragile items – This is one of the most common accidents during a move. Place the moving box close to your body with a firm grip and two hands.
Spraining or straining muscles – Stretching before and after you move will help prevent injuries and spraining or straining muscles. Be sure to do basic stretches like arm swings, neck rolls, and ankle rotations to warm up your muscles before starting the move. And don’t forget to cool down afterward with some more stretches.
Back injuries – Lifting heavy furniture and boxes can cause strain on your back. Be sure to lift with your legs and not your back. Use proper lifting techniques, which include:
- Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart
- Bend at your knees, not your waist
- Tighten your stomach muscles to stabilize your spin
- Keep the object close to your body as you lift
- Slowly straighten your legs as you lift the thing up
If you take the proper precautions, you can avoid personal injuries and accidents to have a successful move. Hiring a professional moving company can help you avoid these accidents by providing the proper equipment and staffing.
How to prepare yourself for an action-packed moving day?
It takes a lot of preparation for moving day, especially for your body and mind. Here are some tips on how to prepare yourself for an action-packed moving day:
1. Get enough rest
It is one of the essential safety tips for moving day. You will be doing a lot of physical activity and must be well-rested to avoid injuries. Make sure to get a good night’s sleep before your move.
2. Eat healthy food and stay hydrated
Moving is a strenuous activity, and you must ensure you have enough energy to get through the day. Eating healthy food and staying hydrated will help you stay energized and avoid getting tired too quickly.
Avoid sugary and fatty foods as they will make you feel sluggish. Instead, focus on eating complex carbohydrates such as whole grains and fruits and lean protein such as chicken or fish. And don’t forget to drink plenty of water!d fruits, and lean protein such as chicken or fish. And don’t forget to drink plenty of water!
3. Wear suitable clothes
It is a piece of common-sense moving safety advice, but it is still worth mentioning – wear comfortable clothes. You need to dress appropriately; that depends on the weather.
- If it is hot, wear light and breathable clothing. Avoid loose or baggy clothes as they can get caught on something and cause you to trip. Wear flexible and breathable fabric instead.
- If it is cold, wear warm clothes layers so you can adjust to the temperature as needed. Dress in layers to remove them if you get too warm. And no matter the weather, wear comfortable shoes that will not give you blisters.
Avoid wearing jewelry as you might get caught on something while moving. It’s also a good idea to wear high-quality work gloves to protect your hands from getting blisters. And most importantly, wear closed-toe shoes to avoid getting hurt.
3. Enjoy the process
Moving can be a stressful experience, but it’s essential to stay positive and have fun. It will help reduce the stress of moving. Focus on the excitement of your new home and spending time with family and friends during the move.
It is vital to be physically and mentally ready for a moving day. By following these safety tips, you can avoid accidents and injuries and have a successful move.
FAQs
Q: What is the most common mistake people make when moving?
A: The most common mistake is not hiring a professional moving company and trying to do everything themselves. It usually becomes more expensive and more stressful in the long run.
Q: How much a moving service should cost?
A: This depends on your required services and how much stuff you have to move. It’s best to get an estimate from a professional moving company so that you can budget accordingly. But it usually ranges from $100-$1000.
Q: How much should I tip the movers?
A: There is no standard answer for this question as it depends on several factors such as the amount of work they did, how long they worked, and whether or not they went above and beyond what was expected. A good rule of thumb is to give each mover $20-$40.
Final Thoughts
If you need a safe and reliable moving company, contact Horizon Movers at (563) 3816 for a free moving estimate! Not only do they have the experience and equipment to handle any move, but they also prioritize safety above all else. We would be happy to assist you with your move and ensure it is as stress-free as possible.
