There isn’t a day that goes by where someone is hurt trying to move from one house to another. A lot of times, this is caused by haste and not taking the time in order to prevent injury. For what ever reason you need to move, you should always take the time to analyze how items need to be packed and whether or not they are too heavy to lift by yourself. There are many methods to practicing safety when you are loading up the truck.

1. Dolly – No, it’s not your 6-year-old’s companion. Using a dolly to move heavy objects can save a great deal of strain on yourself. It is also faster than trying to pack the item in and out of the house as it is on wheels. Using leverage to hoist and move an object, you can reduce your misery by utilizing one of these devices for nearly everything. The dolly isn’t merely for heavy appliances. You can stack a few boxes and make a single trip to the truck as opposed to walking back and forth.

2. Double-up – There is no shame in asking someone to help you carry a box to the truck. If a box is too heavy, it makes sense to ask for help. This can save undue stress on your back while protecting the items inside from accidental breakage. Instead of working against gravity by yourself, a more stable situation can be created by doubling-up on a heavy box or item. You have no one to prove yourself to and could look like a fool if you wind up getting hurt.

3. Less Packing – In order to reduce the weight of a single box, don’t pack it so full. Some of us may be accustomed to packing as much as possible in a space in order to not be wasteful. However, the more items in the box means the heavier it’s going to be. If you don’t have smaller boxes in order to adjust for the volume of packing, then realize that you don’t need to fill the larger one full if you are unable to lift the package.

4. Braces – Moving your home can be quite the grueling workout. Braces of all kinds can help keep your body from suffering during the process. As we get older, our bodies are wearing down and are unable to function as they once did. This is nothing to be ashamed of since it’s a fact of life. If you don’t have the benefit of having teenage children, wearing a brace on your knees, back, or elbows can help prevent a great deal of pain later on. After all, you don’t want to spend the first week in your new home in agony while popping painkillers.

5. Earlier Packing – If you have intentions of moving within the immediate future, start packing as soon as possible. Spending time packing your home can be more efficient than rushing it at the last second. When we are rushed to accomplish a task, there is a greater chance of having an accident. Take time to pack your belongings and ensure the safety of yourself and your valuables.

It doesn’t take much time or effort to realize that you may need help moving your stuff around. Set aside the macho behavior and ask someone for help. You don’t need to be Hercules and toss your stuff in the truck. Wouldn’t you rather use the energy to unpack your new home as opposed to laying on the floor popping ibuprofen? 

This is a guest post by Liz Nelson from WhiteFence.com. She is a freelance writer and blogger from Houston. Questions and comments can be sent to: liznelson17 @ gmail.com.