How to Lift Heavy Boxes Correctly When Moving

Moving consists of many different processes that you need to master in order to relocate safely. Packing items, transporting them, lifting heavy boxes, decluttering, etc. are just some of them. One thing is certain, you will not be the same person before and after your relocation. Today we will focus on how to lift heavy boxes correctly when moving, as avoiding moving injuries should be your top priority. In case you don`t have enough time or patience to perform a DIY move, hiring movers can keep the stress out of this equation.

Pack the items properly inside the moving boxes

The first thing you want to do is to pack the items correctly. You need to distribute the weight evenly inside the boxes. The heaviest items should be at the bottom of the box, while the lighter ones should be at the top. Remember that the largest moving boxes should always contain lighter items such as blankets, pillows, and clothes. It is the smallest and medium boxes that should be heavier with books, tools, dishes, etc.

Pro-tip: Never forget to label the moving boxes. When you label the boxes, you will know exactly what is inside them, and you will know that they are heavy. In this way, you will never make the mistake of miscalculating the force you need to pick a moving box. You can download free labels online, or write the contents on the box with a permanent marker.

Use the best quality moving boxes for heavier objects

You can get moving boxes for free at many places. Ask around where to get free cardboard boxes. Local groceries, bookstores, libraries, businesses, Craigslist, your friends and family, etc. However, while these used boxes can be perfect for lighter objects, they may not be the perfect solution for heavier ones. When lifting heavy boxes, it is important to know that they will not tear down. You need new, high-quality moving boxes NYC in order to lift heavy boxes correctly.

Clear the path

It does not matter if you follow all the rules in the world for lifting heavy boxes correctly if you did not clear the pathway you will use. Remove all the plants, other moving boxes, toys, and everything else that may stand in your way. Do you have kids and pets? We highly recommend that you have someone take care of them on a moving day. Not only is moving more stressful for them, as they are too young and small to understand what is going on, but they may also get injured walking around.

Rent a dolly or a hand truck for your moving boxes

A dolly or a hand truck will make lifting and carrying the heavy boxes immensely easier. Plus, you will be able to load a few moving boxes and save time and effort. Whenever you can use a hand truck use it, as you will avoid moving injuries easily. They are not too expensive to rent, and you won`t need them after the relocation is finished anyway.

Dress accordingly

Dressing well when you need to lift your boxes is half the job. Avoid wearing tight jeans, sweaters, and uncomfortable clothes. Instead, opt for yoga pants, tracksuits, and sneakers. If you have long hair, make sure to tie it in a bun, so that it does not cover your eyes, and cause you distractions in general. Make sure that you feel comfortable in what you wear.

Pro-tip: While dressing well is a must, you should also take care of other things such as proper nutrition, enough sleep, proper hydration. Remember to always ask yourself whether you are hungry and thirsty, and determine how tired you are. It is easy to let the desire to finish everything as fast as possible overcome you. It is important to rest because that is the best way to avoid moving injuries when lifting heavy boxes.

Lift heavy boxes properly

• Spread your feet at shoulder length.
• Face the moving box you are about to lift. When you are standing in front of it with your feet at shoulder length bend down with your knees.
• Keep your back as straight as possible.
• Get a good grip on your moving box before lifting it. In order to lift the heavy moving box, it is important that you use the strength of your legs and not your back. So, keeping the same posture with a straight back and lift the box slowly.

There is no reason for you to speed up the process. Speed can only cause errors, so take it one step at a time.

Carry the boxes with extreme caution

Lifting the moving boxes is one part of the job. The job is not done until you place the moving box inside the moving truck. So, carry the boxes carefully, and make sure that you have a good view ahead of you.

Get help

Lifting heavier objects such as moving boxes is never an easy thing to do. Learning the right lifting techniques is the first step towards a successful relocation. Learning when you need to call someone for help is, however, more important. Even with the best of techniques the weight of the box can cause you back pain, so you should have assistance. Your friends and family members, or colleagues from work should help you during the process. If they are not able to do this, you can always hire professional movers who will use years of their experience to safely transport your items into the moving truck.

Keep calm and maintain a positive attitude

Knowing that there is a lot of work ahead of you can cause you stress and uncertainty. When this happens, it is important that you think about your new house and how everything will be finished rather soon. Don`t forget to get in touch with your friends, and don`t skip your jogging day just because you are moving. With good organization, you will be able to accomplish everything. And remember to follow our guidelines when lifting heavy boxes. Good luck!