Moving day and major clear-outs often involve lifting objects that are heavier or more awkward than we anticipate. Avoiding strains and injuries is paramount, and it’s surprisingly easy when you use the right ergonomic skills. If you’re going to attempt to move heavy furniture alone or simply shift a lot of boxes, remember these principles.
The golden rule: Lifting with your legs, not your back
Professional removal teams rely on core strength and leverage, not brute force. This is the foundation of safe heavy lifting techniques.
- Assess and clear: Before you lift, check the object’s weight and clear the pathway. A tripping hazard is a fast route to injury.
- The power stance: Stand close to the object with your feet shoulder-width apart.
- Bend your knees, not your waist: Squat down, keeping your back straight and your chest up. This engages your powerful leg and glute muscles. This is the essence of lifting with your legs not your back.
- Secure the grip: Grab the object firmly with both hands, ensuring you have a full, secure grip.
- Lift gradually: Use a steady, slow motion, pushing up with your legs. Do not jerk or twist your body.
- Keep it close: Hold the load as close to your body’s core as possible. The further out it is, the heavier it feels.
Essential equipment for moving house
You don’t need a team of pros if you have the right tools. Investing in the best lifting equipment for moving house is a smart move to help prevent back injury lifting.
| Equipment Type | Best For | Why it Works |
| Furniture Sliders | Heavy wardrobes, sofas, white goods. | They allow you to move heavy furniture alone by sliding it across floors rather than lifting it. |
| Appliance Dolly/Hand Truck | Fridges, washing machines, tall stacks of boxes. | Uses wheels and leverage to move loads up to 300kg with minimal effort. |
| Moving Straps | Bulky, awkward items like mattresses or chests of drawers. | Distributes the weight across your shoulders and legs, keeping your hands free to guide the load. |
| Pallet Wrap/Stretch Film | Securing drawers, loose items, and keeping padding in place. | Holds the load rigid, making it easier to handle. |
When to step back and call a pro
While it’s great to save money, know your limits. You can only truly prevent back injury lifting if you don’t over-exert yourself.
If an item is heavy, awkward, located on a staircase, or involves a high risk of property damage, it’s time to call in the specialists. They have the training and insurance to move items like pianos, marble statues, or large safes safely.
Find a tradesperson who handles the heavy stuff
Our platform connects you with experienced removal specialists who possess the knowledge, equipment, and insurance required for all types of loads. Don’t risk your back (or your banisters!) when you don’t have to.
With Rated People, you have the power to get it done. Find a trusted, local tradesperson today
