Ideally, there should be at least 2–3 feet (0. 61–0. 91 m) of space on all sides of your object.
Make sure the bottom plate is perfectly centered under your item. If it’s not, there’s a chance that the item may tip or slide once you get it lifted.
It’s a good idea to have someone else stationed on the front side of the item just in case it rocks or shifts unexpectedly. [5] X Research source Some dollies have molded handles on the rear edge that can make it easier to find and maintain a secure grip.
If you hold the dolly too upright, the item may pitch right off the front end. If you lean it back too much, more of the item’s weight will be transferred to you, which can make moving difficult and dangerous. Avoid making sharp turns while your cargo is in motion, or stopping too abruptly when you reach your destination or pause to rest. [7] X Research source
Appliances dollies are just like standard utility dollies, only larger and able to support far more weight. They also usually come with their own straps, which can lend added security to difficult moving tasks. Furniture dollies have four wheels instead of two, and are designed to hold hundreds or even thousands of pounds. These features make loading and transporting even the most extravagant pieces a breeze. [9] X Research source
Always load your boxes from heaviest to lightest, with the biggest, bulkiest boxes at the bottom of the stack. You can pile on boxes all the way up to the end of the vertical supports for maximum efficiency. Just be sure the top box isn’t so high that it blocks your view or causes the load to become top-heavy. [11] X Research source
Wrap trailing electrical cords around the body of the appliance, or tape them to an out-of-the-way part of the housing to make sure that they stay put. Some moving experts recommend loading certain types of appliances from the side in order to avoid accidentally damaging their mechanical or electrical components. [13] X Research source
The only real difference between loading a utility dolly and loading a furniture dolly is that it will be necessary to lift or tip the piece over onto the dolly rather than leveraging it up with the bottom plate. Emptying out furniture items that double as storage solutions prior to moving them will reduce their weight drastically. It’s also wise to wrap pieces containing drawers with plastic or rubber bands to prevent them from sliding out. [15] X Research source
Measure each doorway and opening you’ll be passing through with the dolly ahead of time. Otherwise, you may be setting yourself up for frustration later on. [17] X Research source Plotting and clearing your path will also give you a chance to work out an alternate route if you happen to discover that a particular area is impassable.
Ratchet straps are most commonly used for moving jobs. However, you could also use hook or tie-down style straps if they’re what you have on hand. Assuming you don’t have any proper straps available, a set of bungee cables or few lengths of durable nylon rope will help you get the job done, as well. [19] X Research source
If you’re pushing the dolly straight ahead, lean into it. If you’re pulling it uphill, or going down a slight decline, lean away from it.
Always have a second person standing by to lend you a hand on stairways. It’s not safe to try to negotiate them on your own, no matter how short they might be. [22] X Research source
