Moving Tips | Avoid These Common Moving Injuries

Published: April 04, 2022

Moving to a new place can be an exhaustive process for all members involved. It takes a lot of time and effort to both plan and execute a move. During the moving process, some common injuries arise. Keep reading to learn more about these common injuries and how to avoid them during your move. 

Back Injuries

Moving furniture and appliances is commonly described as ‘back-breaking work’. Back injuries are one of the most common injuries that result from moving. Appliances and furniture are heavy and awkward, and most people cannot do it on their own. Getting help from someone while moving these items is ideal, but having help does not guarantee you will go injury-free. 

Knowing the proper way to lift these heavy items is the only thing that will ensure your back survives the move along with the things you are moving. Your hamstrings, quads, and calves are here to help your back. Keep your legs shoulder-width apart, your back straight, and put the majority of the strain on your legs rather than your back. Do not bend at the waist, but rather at the knees. This keeps the pressure off of your back. Using a dolly when possible will also alleviate the possibility of back injury. 

Fingers and Toes

The objects you are moving will be heavy, and dropping them on your fingers or toes has a high probability of leading to a break due to the relative weakness of these bones compared to others. Steel-toed boots can protect your toes from most heavy objects, and thick gloves can provide some protection for your fingers. Ensuring moving boxes are not overloaded or too heavy is another step you can take to better protect your fingers and toes. 

Knees and Ankles

Moving will require you to lift, pull, push, and drag heavy items. Your joints will be making a range of motions with significant resistance and pressure. This can lead to straining or tearing of ligament muscles, as well as twisting of ankles. The chances of this type of injury are elevated when moving up or downstairs or around tight corners. The weather can also create problems getting a proper grip on surfaces. Wearing a knee and ankle brace while moving will reduce the risk of injury. Additionally, make calculated and deliberate movements when transporting heavy objects. It is not a race, so don’t make it one. Take your time with heavy objects and have a pre-planned path to travel with them. Clearing the area of objects that can be tripped on will also reduce the risk of these joint injuries. 

Cuts and Scrapes

During the average moving process, there will be delicate and sharp objects that need to be moved. Avoiding scrapes and cuts can be as simple as wearing closed-toe shoes, long sleeves and pants, and having gloves. The objects themselves should be packed securely to avoid the risk of glass or ceramic breaking. Knives should be properly protected from anyone accidentally grabbing them or having their points stab through a box. Having an easily accessible first aid kit will ensure that you can quickly clean and dress any severe cuts to avoid infection. 

Our Services

Whether you’re moving and need a short-term portable storage or want to store your items off-site in our storage center indefinitely, UNITS makes moving and storage as easy as 1, 2, 3! Our locally owned and operated stores are run by owners who care and are dedicated to making their customers’ lives easier.

Our average cost of moving and storage is typically far less than that of national brands. Get a free quote from us today and then compare our quote apples to apples with any national brand—you won’t be disappointed! UNITS® doesn’t have any hidden fees—PERIOD.