Moving is a tough time for everyone and despite our best efforts, we often end up rushing around like headless chickens on moving day. This haste, combined with the fact that you’re shifting heavy boxes and furniture all day, can make accidents and injuries more likely.
Keep boxes fairly light
Make sure your boxes weigh no more than 13 kilos or thereabouts so that everyone can lift them without risking their backs. You should be able to lift them easily and still feel steady on your feet. If you can’t do this, the box is too heavy for you. You’ll be moving a lot of boxes on moving day, so make sure there’s the minimum of risk. Don’t forget to lift things properly – no bending over. You squat and lift with your lower body.
Use the right equipment
If you’re helping your removals team with furniture transport, then make sure you use their equipment. If you’re shifting a heavy filing cabinet, then use a dolly; the same goes for stacks of boxes. Secure your loads with straps, as well.
Look for tripping hazards
Inspect the front and back gardens for uneven paving slabs, tree roots, slippy areas, poles and so on. Work out where the closest parking spot to your new place is and make sure you can park there for the day; this is especially important when it comes to the heavier side of furniture transport as it can get tiring very quickly.
Ask your removal guys if they have traction mats as these can be invaluable over grass and uneven surfaces, as well as for protecting your internal floors.
Wear the right clothes
Loose sleeves, wide-legged trousers and sandals are an absolute no-no! You need supportive, non-slip footwear that protects your toes – can you imagine dropping that metal filing cabinet on your exposed toes?
Keep high-traffic areas free of obstacles
As soon as the boxes are in the house, move them to the far sides of the rooms and don’t leave anything in corridors.
Keep the kids out of the way
They’re small and they don’t have as much sense as you! Ideally, they should be in school, kindie or with a babysitter or relative. If you have pets, they should be locked away in a safe, comfortable room with food and water or at a kennel or cattery.
Have a first aid kit to hand
There will be splinters, scrapes and headaches, so make sure you have plasters, antiseptic wipes and ointment, as well as painkillers with you. Keep everyone well-fed and hydrated too, as this will lessen the chances of slip-ups.
