As professional movers with decades of experience, we understand that relocating large appliances and heavy furniture can seem daunting. Whether you’re moving a refrigerator across town or transporting precious antiques to a new state, proper technique and planning are crucial.
Our comprehensive guide will walk you through the professional methods we use to ensure safe and efficient moving of all valuable, large items.
Essential Pre-Moving Steps: Setting the Foundation for Success
The key to a successful move begins long before lifting anything heavy. Start by creating a detailed timeline at least six weeks before your moving date. Doing so allows time to research moving companies, gather necessary supplies, and properly prepare large appliances.
When evaluating moving companies, you’ll want to look beyond basic pricing and consider their experience with specialty items, insurance coverage, and customer reviews.
The Art of Moving a Refrigerator
Moving a refrigerator requires more than just muscle. It demands careful preparation and proper technique. Begin by measuring both the refrigerator and your moving pathway, including all doorways, hallways, and stairwells. This critical step prevents discovering mid-move that your appliance won’t fit through a crucial passage.
Next, prepare the refrigerator 24 hours before moving day. Do not skip this step! Empty all contents and remove shelving and drawers. These components not only add unnecessary weight but can also break during transit.
You’ll also want to unplug the unit and allow it to defrost completely, laying towels around the base to catch water. For refrigerators with ice makers or water dispensers, properly disconnect and secure all water lines according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Our Favorite Techniques for Moving Day Success
On moving day, start by securing the refrigerator doors with strong tape and wrapping the power cord safely around the unit’s body. Professional movers always use high-quality moving blankets and stretch wrap to protect the exterior from scratches and dents. Then, position an appliance dolly at the refrigerator’s side—never attempt to move a refrigerator without one!
The loading process requires careful attention to detail. Gently tilt the refrigerator onto the dolly and secure it with proper straps. Maintaining an upright position throughout the move is crucial—tilting a refrigerator too far can cause oil to flow into the cooling tubes, potentially causing serious damage.
Mastering Heavy Furniture Transportation
Moving heavy furniture requires a different approach than appliances. For large pieces like armoires and entertainment centers, consider partial disassembly. Removing drawers, detachable legs, and other components not only reduces weight but also makes navigation through tight spaces easier. Always wrap the remaining pieces in moving blankets, securing them with stretch wrap to prevent scratches and dents.
Protecting Valuable and Antique Items: A Specialized Approach
Valuable and antique items demand extra attention. Our professional approach involves creating custom protection strategies for each piece. We utilize specialized materials like acid-free paper for wrapping antiques and custom-built crates for extremely valuable items. Professional movers always position these items strategically in the truck, typically near the front for easy monitoring and reduced handling.
The Tools That Make the Difference
Success in moving heavy items relies heavily on having the right equipment. Professional-grade dollies, both standard and appliance-specific, form the backbone of any serious moving operation. Furniture sliders allow smooth movement across both hardwood and carpeted surfaces without damage. High-quality moving blankets and stretch wrap provide crucial protection, while lifting straps help prevent back injuries during heavy lifts.
Safety Considerations for Protecting People and Property
Safety remains paramount during any move. Professional movers always wear appropriate safety gear, including work gloves and steel-toed boots. They use door jamb protectors and corner guards to prevent property damage. Regular breaks are scheduled to prevent fatigue-related accidents, and clear communication protocols are established before any heavy lifting begins.
Post-Move Procedures
After arriving at the destination, proper placement and setup are crucial. Refrigerators need 24 hours to settle before plugging in, allowing the coolant to stabilize. For furniture, consider traffic flow and functionality when determining final placement. Always inspect items thoroughly before signing delivery paperwork, noting any concerns immediately.
When to Call the Professionals
While many moves can be handled independently, certain situations demand professional expertise. Complex moves involving multiple large items, narrow staircases, or valuable antiques often require professional handling. Professional movers bring not only physical capability but also specialized knowledge and insurance coverage to protect your investment.
Making Your Move Successful
Moving large items doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With proper planning, appropriate equipment, and attention to detail, even the largest pieces can be moved safely and efficiently. Whether you choose to handle the move yourself or hire professionals, understanding these principles will help ensure your valuable items arrive safely at their new home.
At BMS Moving & Storage, we’ve spent years perfecting these techniques. Our experienced team stands ready to assist with your next move, bringing expertise and care to ensure your precious items arrive safely at their new destination. Contact us today to learn how we can make your next move smooth and stress-free.
