Everyone gets a little excited and a bit stressed-out when they are planning a move. However, professionals caution us that there are many health and safety precautions to take. One common recommendation is to have a check-list of accessible medical and safety supplies on hand.
“A list of necessary moving supplies as well as current medications can ensure a safe move and a small amount of preparation can avoid any emergencies,” shared Robert Rossi the founder of Rossi Moving, an Oregon based moving company.
“I’ve been moving businesses and families for over 20+ years, said Rossi “And the one thing I recommend to our clients is to have a plan in place.”
Just as important to consider will be the time of year your move is scheduled. Oregon families need to make sure they have a professional mover secured far enough in advance, especially during the busy summer months.
Local Oregon movers all seem to agree that there are several health and safety precautions that should be taken when you implement your moving plan.
If you are hiring a professional moving company, but plan on packing your household and personal items yourself, you still need to consider the weight of the items and how heavy you are packing them. Remember, you or a family member may be handling these items or lifting them when you arrive in your new home.
“Be sure if you lift anything you know how to avoid possible back, neck or shoulder injury,” Rossi warns.
Hiring professionals reduces the risk of moving-related injuries. If you’ll be moving yourself, most experts recommend that you discuss your plans with all family members and make a list of the necessary packing materials, including all current medications and safety items needed.
When you are researching a moving company, be sure to ask them for several references. Remember to ask your insurance agent if your home owners or rental insurance policy covers your items during the move.
Ask your mover if they supply all the necessary dollies and carts for moving and what specifications that they recommend for your household furnishings. This varies from move to move.
“Movers specialize in different aspects of moving,” said Rossi. “For instance, we are one of the few movers in Oregon who specialize in moving pool tables, gun safes, hot tubs and pianos. We supply all the safety equipment and can move specific large items for homeowners or move an entire house or office.”
Remember to always keep a spare set of car and house keys during a move. As boxes get shifted and moved around there is a tendency to set things down.
The following tips for moving will assist you in putting together a good plan.
- Pack boxes for safe handling. Put books and other heavy items in smaller boxes and light items in larger boxes. Wrap sharp or pointed objects, like kitchen knives and shop tools, in packing paper before boxing them.
- Dress appropriately on moving day. Wear good shoes that support your arches and protect your feet if you drop something on them. Use work gloves to give you a good grip for lifting and to protect your hands. Avoid loose clothing that might catch on things.
- Lift properly. Always use your legs and not your back to lift heavy objects. Squat down, lift upward with your legs and keep your back straight.
- Pace yourself. Go slow and take plenty of breaks. It’s when you’re rushing to get the packing and the move over with that careless accidents are most likely to happen.
- Use moving aids. Professional movers will provide dollies (also called hand trucks) that will can use instead of carrying heavy items. Inexpensive sliders from the hardware store also help you move pieces of furniture across floors and carpets rather than lifting them. Experienced moving professionals should provide these things .
- Discuss how a truck is correctly loaded. Movers will load the heaviest items at the front of the truck and tie down anything that might move around. When they stack boxes in the truck, they put the heavy ones on the bottom. Consider labeling or sorting your boxes by both items and weight.
- Have food and water readily available. When you’re preparing for your move, be sure to get plenty of bottled water for hydration and snacks for energy during the move. You may want to plan for everyone to break together for a midday meal as a way to keep their energy from lagging.
- Have a plan for children. Young children should not be underfoot while you’re moving. Arrange for child care or designate someone to keep them occupied and away from trucks, cars and walkways.
- Get rid of flammables before you move. Packing things like paint thinners, matches, lamp oil and other household chemicals increases the risk of combustion and fire.
- Have a first-aid kit handy. Just in case someone needs to be patched up, don’t pack it.
- Keep necessary medications on hand. Store these in a separate compartment or in a box or bag that travels with you.
- Set aside a few familiar items. If you have small children or pets, make sure to keep familiar toys and blankets easily accessible to reduce stress during the move.
Rossi Moving has been providing local and out of state moves for over 20 years. You can contact Rossi moving at: Phone: #510-760-4290.