Moving Safety Tips

Moving can be a chore. Don't forget to take care of yourself during the process. We've compiled ten tips to help you have a "safer" move.

1. Be sure to have water bottles available if your utilities will be cut off.

2. Dress for safety, especially with proper footwear. Shoes should have good tread and protect toes. Backless shoes are not recommended. Work gloves are good protection as well.

3. Keep a first aid kit or supplies handy. Pack a special first aid box and load it last.

4. Try to load early in the day during hot weather.

5. Don't overpack boxes. The average moving box will weigh at least twenty pounds when full. Packing a box full of heavy books will make it extremely heavy. If possible, spread heavy items over several boxes and put some light items in with heavier.

6. Pace yourself. The average 2 bedroom apartment will contain 4500-5000 pounds worth of items.

7. Arrange for plenty of help.

8. Use proper lifting techniques. Lift with your legs and not your back. Consider wearing a back brace for safety.

9. Arrange for proper equipment. You may need to rent a dolly. Small-framed dollies do not work well for big appliances and furniture. A heftier appliance dolly is better.

10. Wear sunscreen. You would be surprised how much sun you will get and you don't want to be unloading into your new house with a painful sunburn.

11. Secure cords properly so that you don't trip over them.

12. Do not pack dangerous chemicals.