Moving day can be tough – not just emotionally, but physically.
Lifting boxes, carrying furniture, navigating narrow staircases – it’s the perfect recipe for back pain or even a slipped disc.
To help you avoid injury and get through your move safely, here are 7 practical tips for lifting properly during your move.
And if you’re already dreading the heavy lifting, we’ll also show you a better way: how to rent storage space without touching a single box, thanks to SaveSpace.
1. Lift with your legs – not your back
It sounds obvious, but it’s the #1 rule people forget.
Always bend your knees, keep your back straight, and engage your core muscles when lifting.
Avoid twisting your upper body under load. Plant your feet firmly and lift slowly and evenly.
💡 Golden rule: Use your legs, not your spine.
2. Hold loads close to your body
Keep boxes as close to your torso as possible.
This reduces strain on your spine and improves balance.
Avoid carrying anything at arm’s length — instead, hug the box to your core, even if it feels awkward at first.
💡 Adjust your grip before lifting, not mid-movement.
3. Don’t carry – roll it instead
You’re not a superhero. And you don’t need to be.
Use simple tools to save your back:
- A hand truck or moving dolly
- Furniture lifting straps
- Old skateboards or rolling boards
- Foldable carts
Even a basic rolling platform can help you move multiple boxes without any heavy lifting.
4. Keep your lower back warm
Sweating is normal when moving – but cold air on sweaty skin leads to tension and strain.
Dress in breathable but back-covering layers and avoid working in drafty clothes.
💡 Tip: Keep an extra hoodie or towel nearby in case you cool down too fast.
5. Take breaks – seriously
It may feel like wasting time, but short breaks help prevent overexertion and injuries.
Fatigue increases the risk of accidents – both for you and the things you’re carrying.
Drink water, stretch your shoulders and back, and check your posture regularly.
💡 A 5-minute pause can save you 5 weeks of pain.
6. Train your back – even just a little
If you have a few days before your move, doing a few simple core and back exercises can make a big difference:
- Planks
- Glute bridges
- Back extensions (“Superman”)
- Spinal mobility routines
Just 10 minutes a day in the week before your move can help you stay strong and prevent injuries.
7. Or… let someone else do the lifting – and store your stuff safely
Honestly? The easiest way to avoid hurting your back is… not to lift at all.
If you’re overwhelmed by all the boxes and bulky furniture, or don’t have space for everything in your new home just yet, temporary storage is a smart solution.
And instead of doing it the hard way — that’s where SaveSpace comes in.
SaveSpace – Storage Without Lifting, Driving or Stress
SaveSpace lets you store everything without touching a single box.
No storage unit.
No van rental.
No hauling.
Just smart, secure storage with pickup and return built in.
Here’s how it works:
- Book online in minutes – no paperwork, no calls
- We pick up your items from your home
- Your things are stored in a dry, safe, monitored warehouse
- You get a digital inventory with photos
- Need something back? One click – and we deliver it
Why SaveSpace is your back’s best friend:
✅ No heavy lifting – we handle it all
✅ No need to rent a storage unit or vehicle
✅ Photo-based inventory so you never forget what you stored
✅ Only pay for the space you actually use
✅ Ideal for storing boxes, furniture, seasonal items, or decorations
✅ Perfect for during or after a move
Final Thought: You have one back – protect it
Don’t start your new chapter in pain.
Use SaveSpace to store what you don’t need right now – and save your spine while you’re at it.