Imagine: It’s a warm, sunny day, and you’ve just pulled the moving truck up to your old house to load up for the trip to your new home. You get out of the cab, walk through the front door, and bend down to pick up a box when suddenly you realize that standing back up is no longer possible. Injuries can have devastating consequences, especially when you are in the middle of a change of address. Here are some steps for how to avoid injuries during a move.
Plan Ahead
Like most things in life, moving is easier if you are prepared and packed before the moving truck arrives. One thing to remember is how to pack the truck. You want the largest, heaviest items going in first and lighter, smaller objects going in last. When you do go to pick something up, only do it if you have somewhere specific that you want to take it. The more you bend, the more likelihood of an injury.
Have Supplies on Hand
Planning should also apply to the boxes you’re packing. Make sure to have enough boxes, tape, and packing material before you begin packing. Remember to keep extra boxes and packing tape on hand on the day of the move for any random bits. Finally, try to keep the box weights under 50 pounds to avoid injury.
Proper Lifting Technique
Using the proper lifting technique can save you from a lifetime of pain. There are some basic rules for lifting that are easy to follow. These include keeping a wide base when you squat down, lift with your legs while keeping your back straight, and to change direction with your feet instead of your waist. If you do feel any pain, put the box down and take a break. You can always come back to it later.
Stay Nourished, Hydrated, and Rested
You are no good to anybody or yourself during a move if you can’t keep going. Part of proper safety while moving is staying nourished, hydrated, and rested. Make sure to eat throughout the day to keep your energy up. Drink plenty of water or sports drinks to help stave off dehydration. You should also take plenty of breaks during the day to give your muscles a rest.
Outsource the Job
Moving is not an easy task to accomplish. It can start to feel futile, especially if you attempt the move on your own. But enlisting help from some friends, usually through a promise of beer and pizza, pays dividends when it comes time to lift that heavy sofa. The absolute best answer for how to avoid injuries during a move is to have somebody else do it for you. There is always the option of a full-service moving company if you are completing a long-distance move or can’t recruit any victims to help. They will come in and handle all the packing, loading, and moving for you.
