Planning a move? If you’re not hiring Northern Illinois long-distance movers, then you have a day of heavy lifting and hauling ahead. Even if you have a lot of help, it’s easy to overdo it and end up with injuries, such as pulled muscles, disc injuries, pinched nerves, and more.
As you plan for your move, take time to review these tips for avoiding injury on moving day.
Stretch Before Starting
You’re going to spend the day lifting and hauling, so spending a few minutes stretching before the work begins will go a long way in helping you avoid injuries.
Use Proper Bending and Lifting Techniques
There are right and wrong ways to bend and lift, and using proper techniques will help prevent strains, pulled muscles, and other injuries. Below are some tips:
- Before bending or lifting, spread your feet apart to provide a wide support base.
- Stand close to whatever object you’re lifting.
- Never bend at the waist; always bend at the knees.
- Tighten stomach muscles as you lift.
- Use the muscles in your hips and knees and lift slowly.
- Do not bend forward as you lift.
- Keep your back straight and squat down as you set the object down.
Don’t Be a Hero
Think you can move that heavy dresser by yourself? Want to show off your gym gains by hauling a heavy box of books? Those are great ways to sustain an injury.
What’s the Rush?
Plan your move in such a way that you can take your time rather than being in a mad rush to get the truck loaded. Depending on how much you have to move, this might include renting the truck for an extra day so you can split the work between two days.
Pack Boxes Lightly
Instead of fewer heavy boxes, it’s better to pack more boxes and keep them light. It might mean more trips, but there is less chance of straining if they aren’t overly heavy. If you must move heavy boxes, make it a two (or three) man job, or use a handcart.
Take Advantage of Mover’s Tools
Speaking of handcarts, buying or renting mover’s tools is a worthwhile investment that will keep you protected from injuries while moving. Examples of items to have available include a hand truck, furniture lifting tool, and stair roller.
Hire Professionals
The best way to avoid injuries is to hire residential movers in Northern Illinois to do the heavy lifting for you.
O’Mara Moving has provided moving services for more than 100 years, and we’ve always maintained high standards. That commitment to exceptional service has earned our moving company a long-standing A+ rating from the BBB and many positive reviews from our customers.
We make moving day easy, and our competitive prices make us the smart choice for your relocation. Call today or fill out our online form now to schedule a no-cost, no-obligation consultation with a moving specialist.
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