Moving can be exciting, but it also comes with risk. Lifting heavy boxes, navigating stairs, and working in tight spaces can lead to injuries or broken items. Use these tips for safety during your move to keep everyone protected — and make the process smooth from start to finish.
Whether you're hiring help or doing it yourself, safety should always come first. For additional planning help, check out our packing for your Des Moines move guide.
1. Lift Smart — Not Hard
Use proper lifting techniques to protect your back. Bend your knees, not your waist, and keep heavy items close to your body. Ask for help with oversized furniture, and use dollies or lifting straps whenever possible. Take your time with bulky pieces and always test the weight before lifting solo.
Movers from Blue Cow Moving & Storage are trained in safe lifting methods — but even if you’re going DIY, the right technique matters. Practicing safe form prevents common injuries like pulled muscles and herniated discs.
Use stretch breaks between heavier lifts, and never twist your body while holding something heavy. Turn your whole body instead of pivoting at the waist.
2. Clear All Pathways
Before you move anything, clear walkways both inside and outside your home. Remove rugs, boxes, cords, and debris that could cause trips or slips. Make sure doors stay open and hallways are well lit. Plan an obstacle-free path from every room to the truck.
Double-check stairwells and entryways for stability. If you’re moving during the colder months, see our winter moving tips in Iowa to safely deal with snow and ice. Salt icy steps and clear all slick surfaces ahead of time.
If possible, post temporary signs or mark uneven surfaces with tape so helpers stay alert as they move.
3. Wear the Right Gear
Avoid flip-flops and open-toed shoes. Choose sturdy footwear with good grip to prevent falls. Work gloves protect your hands from blisters, sharp edges, and splinters, especially when handling wood furniture or cardboard boxes with worn edges.
Comfortable clothing matters too — choose breathable fabrics that allow you to move freely without overheating. Avoid oversized shirts or loose pants that might catch on furniture corners or moving straps.
Optional extras: back braces for heavy lifting, knee pads for crawlspace work, and safety goggles for attic cleanouts or garage packing.
4. Pack Boxes the Right Way
Don’t overload boxes. Keep heavy items in small boxes and light items in larger ones. Seal each box securely with strong packing tape. Label them by room and contents to avoid confusion and dropped items on move day.
Distribute weight evenly and avoid using boxes that are too worn or soft. Reinforce the bottom of every box with double tape, especially for books, tools, or canned goods.
Read our tips on common packing mistakes to avoid so nothing breaks under pressure.
5. Keep Kids and Pets Out of the Way
Moving day can be dangerous for small children and animals. Have a friend or family member watch them in a separate area, or consider a daycare or pet boarding option. A clear work zone ensures everyone stays safe and focused.
Place signs on off-limits doors to prevent kids from wandering into staging areas. Give pets a calm space with food, water, and toys until the move is over. Sudden movement, loud noises, or open doors can easily cause stress or escapes.
Take a moment to update ID tags or microchip information before your move — just in case your pet bolts during the chaos.
6. Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks
Moving is physically demanding. Drink water throughout the day and take breaks every hour or so. Fatigue increases the risk of injury, especially when you're rushing toward the end of the move. Avoid energy crashes by snacking on fruit, nuts, or protein bars.
Prepare a cooler with bottled water, sports drinks, and easy-to-grab snacks like granola or string cheese. Schedule time blocks for meals and don’t skip lunch just to stay on schedule — low energy slows you down more than a 20-minute break ever will.
If temperatures are high, take extra breaks in the shade or indoors and avoid caffeine overload, which can dehydrate you faster.
7. Load the Truck Safely
Place the heaviest items at the bottom and toward the front of the truck to keep the load stable. Use tie-downs to prevent shifting. Avoid stacking too high or leaving gaps where items can fall during transit. Balance the load evenly from left to right and front to back.
Wrap furniture and appliances with moving blankets to protect walls, doors, and the items themselves. Use ratchet straps or rope to secure tall stacks. If you're using a ramp, keep it dry and clear of debris, and walk slowly while pulling or pushing carts.
Review our complete truck loading guide for a safe and efficient move.
8. Don’t Rush the Process
Accidents are more likely when you rush. Plan plenty of time for each step and build in buffer periods. Being behind schedule can lead to hasty decisions that result in injury or damage. Factor in time for traffic, lunch, last-minute cleaning, and unexpected delays.
Set realistic daily goals and prioritize safety over speed — especially toward the end of the day when fatigue sets in. Even pros know to take breaks to reset and avoid the rush mentality.
If you're working with a crew, communicate ahead of time about fragile items, access points, and priorities — it makes the process more efficient and safer for everyone involved.
Final Thoughts | Tips for Safety During Your Move
Moving doesn’t have to result in bruises, strains, or broken items. These tips for safety during your move will help you protect everyone involved — including your belongings and your body. A little planning goes a long way.
Need help from trained professionals who prioritize safety? Contact Blue Cow Moving & Storage for a stress-free move handled with care and expertise.
More Moving Safety and Prep Resources
Real Blue Cow Moves
See Blue Cow in Action
Take a look at real moves completed by our team throughout Central Iowa.
Helpful Moving Advice
Continue Reading
Best Neighborhoods in Ankeny | A Local Guide for Families
Read Article →How to Choose the Right Neighborhood in Ankeny (What Iowa Families Should know Before They Settle Down)
Read Article →How to Pack and Prepare Your Belongings for Long-Term Storage | Des Moines Storage Tips
Read Article →Choosing the Right Storage Solution in Des Moines | Self-Storage vs. Full-Service
Read Article →Helpful Moving Services
Explore Blue Cow Moving & Storage services related to this article.
Moving Services Near You
Find local Blue Cow Moving & Storage services in areas mentioned in this guide.
