Heavy items requiring special attention during the move

During a move, heavy items call for advance planning and specialized equipment to ensure safety and prevent damage

DURING A LOCAL move, it is important to identify heavy items in advance. While most professional movers consider books to be the heaviest items, numerous other objects can be equally or more challenging to transport safely.

If you plan to move your belongings yourself, you will need additional tools to safely move your heavy items to the transport vehicle. Even if you get a quote here and then sign a contract for the move, you still have to prepare the heavy items for relocation to prevent damage and injury.

Appliances are among the heaviest household items. Refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, ovens, and dishwashers require careful handling due to their size, weight, and internal components. They often have delicate parts, such as compressors, coils, and electronic controls, which can be damaged if dropped or tilted improperly. Movers often use dollies, straps, and padding to keep appliances secure while lifting and transporting them.

Furniture is another category of heavy items that requires special attention. Solid wood tables, couches, wardrobes, and large bookshelves are bulky and dense. They may need to be moved through narrow doorways or up and down stairs, which increases the risk of scratches, dents, or structural damage. Professional movers often disassemble furniture or use specialized equipment, such as sliders and lifting straps, to minimize strain and prevent injury.

Pianos and other musical instruments fall into the heavy-and-delicate category. Upright and grand pianos are extremely dense and irregularly shaped. They are also prone to damage if mishandled. Even smaller instruments, such as drum sets and harps, require careful packing and lifting assistance to prevent scratches and misalignment. Professional movers are trained in safe piano handling and often use specialized dollies, ramps, and padding.

Exercise equipment, such as treadmills, weight benches, and stationary bikes, can be unexpectedly heavy. Many have metal frames and motorized components that make them difficult to lift without specialized moving techniques. Improper handling can result in personal injury and damage to flooring.

Aquariums and water tanks present a unique challenge. Even when empty, glass tanks are heavy and fragile. If they contain residual water, their weight increases substantially, and improper lifting can cause cracks or catastrophic breakage. Professional movers securely wrap these items and often transport them upright to preserve their structural integrity.

Finally, safes, filing cabinets, and other dense storage units require special attention. They often contain sensitive materials or personal valuables, and they can strain movers without the proper equipment. Professional movers use dollies, straps, and teamwork to ensure secure transport.