Don’t let forgotten utilities turn your smooth move into a stressful scramble. Knowing when to cancel utilities when moving and how to transfer them correctly can save you money, avoid service interruptions, and make sure your new home is ready to go from day one.
Whether you’re staying in White Plains, NY, or relocating across the country, we’ll walk you through the exact steps and timeline you need.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
✔ Always squat and lift with your legs, not your back.
✔ Keep the box close to your body at waist level for control.
✔ Clear your path before picking up box loads to avoid accidents.
✔ Use equipment or teamwork when moving heavy boxes.
✔ Never lift heavy boxes above shoulder height—use tools instead.
Before You Lift
Proper lifting starts long before you touch the box. Preparation ensures safety and efficiency.
Assess the Load
- Test the weight first: Nudge the box with your foot or lift a corner.
- Ask yourself: Which would be the easiest way to move a heavy box up 4 feet? The safest answer may involve a hand truck, a partner, or professional movers.
- Know your limits: If the box feels too heavy, don’t risk injury—get help.
Plan Your Path
- Clear obstacles: Remove chairs, cords, or loose objects.
- Know your route: Identify where the box will be placed before lifting.
- Avoid tight turns: Straight, open paths are best for picking up box loads.
Use Appropriate Gear
- Gloves: Improve grip and reduce strain.
- Back supports: Keep posture stable.
- Dollies and hand trucks: Essential for moving heavy boxes across long distances.
The Lifting Technique
According to the U.S. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), tools like the Revised NIOSH Lifting Equation (RNLE) are used to evaluate the risks of manual lifting tasks and help reduce the chances of back injuries. In simpler terms, the safest method is always to follow proven steps.
Here’s the proper way to lift a box step by step:
Stance
- Stand with feet shoulder-width apart.
- Keep one foot slightly in front for balance.
Squat Down
- Bend your knees and hips—not your waist.
- Squatting is safer than bending when picking up a box.
Get Close
- Stay as close to the box as possible.
- Extending arms puts unnecessary strain on your back.
Firm Grip
- Grip the underside firmly with both hands.
- A strong grip prevents slips during moving heavy boxes.
Lift with Legs
- Push up with your legs, keeping your back straight.
- This is the gold standard for how to properly lift boxes.
Keep it Close
- Hold the box at waist level.
- Keep elbows tucked in for stability.
Carrying and Lowering
The lift is only half the job—how you carry and set the box down matters too.
Move with Feet
- Walk slowly with small, controlled steps.
- Turn with your feet, not your torso, while picking up box loads.
Lowering
- Squat down again to set the box down.
- Use your legs just like when lifting.
Release Slowly
- Don’t drop or yank away your hands.
- Release steadily to avoid damage or pinched fingers.
Important Reminders
Keep these golden rules in mind for every lift:
- Lift with Your Legs; Never Lift with Your Back: The proper way to lift a box always relies on your legs, not your spine. Musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) risks increase with poor posture, repetitive movements, or excessive force—such as lifting heavy objects or pushing and pulling loads. By letting your legs do the work, you reduce strain and avoid the injuries most often caused by back-heavy lifting.
- Don’t Lift Heavy Boxes Above Your Shoulders: Shoulder-level lifts put unnecessary stress on your spine. If you need to raise something higher, use equipment—remember, which would be the easiest way to move a heavy box up 4 feet? Usually, it’s not by hand.
- Seek Help for Heavy or Bulky Items: Use the buddy system for oversized or awkward loads. Professional movers specialize in moving heavy boxes safely.
How Not to Lift a Box?
- Don’t bend at the waist: It overloads your lower back.
- Don’t jerk the box upward: Smooth, steady movements are safer.
- Don’t twist while holding it: Always pivot your feet instead.
What Is the OSHA Standard for Lifting?
- OSHA doesn’t enforce a maximum lifting weight but provides ergonomic recommendations.
- Employers should train workers in safe lifting practices for moving heavy boxes.
- Following OSHA guidance minimizes workplace injuries during moves.
What Rules Apply to Your Lifting Technique When You Pick Up a Box to Move It Around the Facility?
- Stay close to the load: The farther it is from your body, the heavier it feels.
- Use steady movements: Avoid sudden jerks.
- Plan ahead: Whether picking up box items in the office or warehouse, the rules remain the same.
What Is the 2 Person Lift Rule?
The 2 person lift rule simply means that when a box or object is too heavy, bulky, or awkward for one person to handle safely, two people should lift it together. By sharing the weight and coordinating movements, you greatly reduce the risk of injury and make moving heavy boxes or awkward items much safer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if you don’t use the proper way to lift a box?
If you ignore the proper way to lift a box, you increase the risk of injuries such as strained muscles, herniated discs, or pulled ligaments. Poor lifting techniques can also lead to dropped boxes, damaged office equipment, and slower relocation times. Using correct form protects both your health and your belongings.
What should I do if I feel pain while picking up a box?
If you feel discomfort or sharp pain while picking up a box, stop immediately. Set the box down safely, rest, and ask for assistance. Continuing to lift with poor form or while in pain increases the risk of long-term injury.
How do I know if I need equipment for moving heavy boxes?
As a general rule, if a load feels too heavy to lift comfortably or requires you to bend awkwardly, equipment should be used. Dollies, lifts, and carts make moving heavy boxes much safer and prevent workplace accidents.
Which would be the easiest way to move a heavy box up 4 feet without risking injury?
The safest and easiest method is to use proper lifting equipment such as a platform lift, step stool, or dolly. If those aren’t available, seek help from a colleague. Attempting to raise a heavy load above your shoulders without help is never the right solution.
How to properly lift boxes when working in a team?
When lifting as a pair, communicate clearly before moving. Count down before lifting, carry the load at the same height, and walk in sync. This teamwork approach is one of the best practices for how to properly lift boxes safely and efficiently.
Move Smarter, Not Harder
Learning the proper way to lift a box ensures your office relocation goes smoothly without unnecessary injuries. If your business in White Plains, NY, is preparing for a move, don’t take chances with safety. Let professionals handle the heavy lifting.
Contact Commercial Movers By Best today for expert help in moving heavy boxes and managing your entire office relocation.
