man and woman surrounded by moving boxes

One of the most inevitable parts of relocating to a new home is the task of lifting furniture and moving boxes. No matter how simple this activity may seem, lifting heavy items can cause injuries when not done properly.

Aside from the risk of back pains and other types of injuries that can range from minor to severe, carrying your household items from point A to point B can be really exhausting—especially if you are not used to such strenuous activities. Good thing, you can always hire local movers to do the heavy workload for you, helping you avoid injuries and all the hassle.

Since 1975, Winnipeg Moving has provided excellent moving and storage services for individual and corporate clients alike. Our highly trained and professional Winnipeg movers are always ready to help others learn how to practice safe and efficient moving techniques to avoid injuries and avoid damaging their personal belongings. In this article, we will share some of the most effective tips on how to lift moving boxes to help you prepare for your upcoming relocation.

Test the Weight First Before Lifting

Don’t just try to lift the moving boxes with full force. Examine it first and test to see whether or not it is something that you can carry on your own, or whether you will need a hand. It’s important to always move heavy objects with others in company, and never by yourself. Moving heavy objects can be very dangerous, so make sure you have a capable and strong moving team to help you during this phase of the project.

Be in the Proper Posture

Your posture is an important factor if you want to avoid injuries. Make sure that your feet are shoulder-width apart, with one foot slightly ahead of the other. Also, it is important to keep your back straight when lifting boxes and other items.

Lift With Your Legs, Not With Your Back

Before you lift moving boxes, spread your legs apart and use your leg muscles to lift. Never lift with your back as this can strain your muscles. You can also squat or bend at your knees and hips to avoid putting pressure on your back. If the box is really heavy, lower one knee onto the floor, while the other knee should be bent into a right angle.

Grab the Box Firmly

It is not recommended to lift boxes with one hand. Use both hands to carry the box at the base. Aside from helping you avoid injuries, this will also keep your items safe and secured. If the item is too heavy to carry, consider using a dolly to make the lifting a lot easier.

Don’t Lift Above Your Head

Regardless of how light you think the box is, don’t carry it over your head because this can strain your shoulders and upper back. Also, you’ll never know if the base of the box will suddenly break and the items will fall onto your head.

Slow Down

While packing your household items, it is okay to go fast. However, when lifting your boxes and furniture, it is recommended to just slow down and be careful. When you hurry too much, you might twist a muscle or damage furniture or other items.

Seek Help From Professionals

Moving is a lot more complicated and difficult than it may seem. Professional moving services can make the entire process a whole lot easier and safer, with services designed with you and your specific needs in mind. From full-service packing and unpacking to customized crating, oversized lifting, and so much more, a professional move is a great choice for anyone making a commercial or household move. It can also be a more affordable choice in many circumstances, especially if you’re prone to damage your items in the process of moving, or if you take an extra long time going through the process yourself.

Your Most Trusted Winnipeg Movers

If you are looking for reliable Winnipeg movers, Winnipeg Moving is a highly rated moving company that can help you experience a smooth and easy move. For more than four decades, our local and long-distance movers have earned a reputation for excellence in relocation with personalized services that stand out from the rest.

Whether you need residential, commercial, or specialized moving and storage services, you can count on Winnipeg Moving to provide a solution that is tailored exactly according to your unique requirements. If you want to learn more about how we can help you, give us a call or fill out our quick online form to contact us today for a free, in-home consultation and pricing estimate.