Plan the route and the load before lifting. A box that is manageable on a clear level floor may become difficult on stairs or in wet weather. Keep walkways, exits and working areas clear, and use suitable professional help for heavy or awkward belongings.
Reduce avoidable handling
Pack dense items in smaller containers and place boxes where they can be collected without reaching over obstacles. Use appropriate equipment only if the people operating it know how and the route is suitable. Do not exceed the limits of a trolley, ramp, lift or vehicle.
Organise the working area
- Keep children and pets away from loading and dismantling.
- Agree who directs a shared carry before it begins.
- Stop if the route, grip or load becomes unsafe.
- Allow breaks, drinking water and enough time to avoid rushing.
Wear footwear and clothing appropriate to the job. If health or mobility needs affect what you can do, assign tasks accordingly rather than treating moving day as a test of strength. The HSE manual-handling guidance provides a useful risk-assessment starting point; it does not replace an assessment of your particular move.
Put it into practice
Use the personalised moving checklist and timeline to organise your own figures or next steps. Keep its assumptions alongside your plan.