How to lift heavy items safely on moving day
Most moving injuries happen in the last few boxes, when people are tired.
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Moving is physical work. Strains and trapped fingers are common, usually from rushing or lifting items that are too heavy for one person.
Technique
- Plan the route first. Clear stairs, doorways and hallways.
- Stand close to the load with feet shoulder width apart.
- Bend your knees, keep your back straight and lift with your legs.
- Hold the load close to your body.
- Turn with your feet, not by twisting your back.
- Ask for help before you start, not halfway.
Equipment that helps
- Sack truck (also called a sack trolley) for boxes and appliances.
- Furniture sliders for heavy items on hard floors.
- Lifting straps, used correctly.
- Gloves with grip and sturdy shoes.
Leave these to professionals
Pianos, safes, large fridge-freezers and anything you cannot lift safely. See our guide to moving heavy items and piano removals.
Know when a company is worth it
If the move involves stairs and bulky furniture, a crew is faster and safer. Compare the cost with doing it yourself.
Compare up to 5 removal quotes and see which companies cover your route.
Frequently asked questions
How heavy is too heavy to lift?
It depends on you and the shape of the load. If you are not sure, get help or use equipment.
Should I use a sack truck on stairs?
Only with a stair-climbing type and a helper. Otherwise carry in smaller loads.
Do removal companies carry heavy items?
Yes, trained crews do it all day. Tell them about stairs and bulky items when you request quotes.
Related guides
- Moving pianos, safes and heavy items: cost and rules
- DIY move or removal company: which is cheaper?
- Piano removals: how to move a piano safely and what it costs
Plan before you lift
Most injuries during a move happen because people lift too much, too quickly. Before you lift, look at the item, the route and the destination. Check for sharp edges and loose parts, measure the doorways and clear a path. If an item is too heavy to lift easily, do not. Use a trolley, a sack truck or get help from someone, or book a crew. In the workplace, there are legal duties on employers about manual handling, and the same sensible approach helps in a home move.
A safe lifting technique
- Stand close to the item with your feet shoulder-width apart.
- Bend your knees, not just your back, and keep your back straight.
- Get a company grip and hold the load close to your body.
- Lift smoothly using your legs, without twisting.
- Move your feet to turn, rather than twisting your body.
- Put the item down the same way you picked it up.
- If you carry together, agree signals and count down before lifting.
Use the right equipment
- Trolleys and sack trucks for boxes, appliances and heavy furniture.
- Furniture sliders for moving items across floors.
- Lifting straps that spread the load for two people.
- Blankets and covers to protect items and floors.
- Gloves and sturdy shoes.
Reduce the weight
- Pack heavy items such as books and tools in small boxes.
- Remove drawers, doors and shelves from furniture.
- Empty appliances and disconnect them safely.
When not to lift
Pianos, safes, large fridge-freezers, pool tables and very heavy items need a specialist crew. If you are pregnant, have a back problem or an injury, or feel unwell, do not lift. See moving heavy items, piano removals and moving house while pregnant.
Common questions
What is the safest way to lift a heavy box?
Bend your knees, keep your back straight, hold the box close to your body and lift with your legs. Do not twist.
When should I hire help rather than lift myself?
For anything very heavy or awkward, in tight spaces, up stairs, or if you have health concerns. A trained crew has the technique and the equipment.
Can I move a washing machine myself?
Possibly, with a trolley and a helper, after disconnecting it safely. Appliances are heavy, so consider paying a crew.
