Many people reading this already know that moving is a pain, but using the right tools and proper lifting techniques to carry the load helps to prevent injuries while reducing soreness. We have an array of storage unit sizes in Garfield New Jersey, and if you ever find yourself in a situation where you need to carry heavy items, just follow the tips below to avoid injury.
Prepping to Move Safely Without Injury Using The Right Lifting Techniques
Well for starters you’ll want to get as much help as possible. Some stuff or items may require multiple people to move safely, so don’t try doing it yourself. Hiring professional movers will ensure that you don’t have to risk injury hauling everything alone, so it is worth every dime you pay.
Regardless of if you hire movers or take the DIY route using proper lifting techniques, it is imperative to remove clutter and debris which may cause you or the professionals to trip. Plus, you should wear the right shoes. Athletic shoes, closed toe shoes, ones with rubber soles, etc. will ensure flexibility, traction, and comfort. You should also use work gloves as they will ensure a better grip when lifting things safely.
Learning proper lifting techniques is one of the best things you can do to keep from injury while moving into self storage or loading a moving truck.
Proper Lifting Technique 1: Get Your Posture Right
It only takes a few wrong moves to turn a productive day into weeks of back and shoulder pain. However, try these tips to evenly distribute the weight you lift properly as well as reduce pressure on your joints and back.
- Place your feet at least shoulder width apart, moving one slightly forward before you lift anything
- Items should be kept close to your waist for added stability. Don’t try to lift the weight over your head
- You will want to push and not pull to reduce strain and increase visibility
- Make sure that your back is straight, look forward, keep the shoulders back and the elbows tucked in
- Bend your knees and not the waist when lifting
- Move slowly using small steps to ensure that each step is well planted
You will also save some time and energy by measuring the stairways and doorways before moving any appliances and furniture. That way, you can plan for how to move large and often awkward items through the doors.
Proper Lifting Techniques 2: Keep a Few Tools Handy
When moving items into a storage unit, customers should take advantage of the tools we’ve listed below:
- Stair rollers: Hook it up to the furniture for easy and fast moving
- Glide and slide: You can place discs right under most heavy items to reduce friction for easy pushing
- Dollies: Move more than one box by securing them using a furniture strap
- Use Lifting Straps: Reduce strain by lowering the center of gravity
We hope that these proper lifting techniques will ensure that you move safely and without frustration. Our storage units are conveniently located across the US. You can contact us to find out more about these storage units and how to reserve one for yourself.
