How to Move a Safe

“How do I move this safe?” is a common question homeowners ask us. Many people own a safe to store jewelry, documents, firearms and ammunition, and more. Regardless of what you store inside, safes generally house very valuable items that you want to ensure stay protected.  

Safes can be very heavy and awkward to move, so it's important to take precautions to avoid injury and property damage. In this blog post, we'll provide a step-by-step guide on how to move a heavy safe and how to move a gun safe.  

Before You Move the Safe

Before you even attempt to move the safe, it's important to take some preparatory steps. Here's what you'll need to do:

1. Clear the area. Make sure there is a clear path around the safe so you can move it safely. You'll also want to remove any valuables from the safe in case it gets tipped over during the move.

2. Gather your supplies. You'll need some essential supplies to move the safe safely. These include:  

1. Furniture dolly or moving straps

2. Helper(s) — Safes are very heavy and can be dangerous to move by yourself. Enlist the help of at least one strong friend or family member to help you move the safe.

3. Work gloves — To protect your hands

4. Floor mats or blankets — To protect the floor from scratches

How to Move a Safe

Once you've gathered your supplies and cleared the area, you're ready to start moving the safe. Here's how to move a safe the right way:

1. Empty the safe. As mentioned earlier, it's important to remove any valuables from the safe before you move it. This will help to prevent damage to the safe's contents if it gets tipped over.  

2. Secure the safe's door. Make sure the safe's door is securely shut and locked before you start moving it.

3. Position the dolly or straps. If you're using a furniture dolly, position it next to the safe so that the platform is level with the bottom of the safe. If you're using moving straps, loop them under the safe and lift the safe so that it is partially supported by the straps.

4. Lift with your legs, not your back. When lifting the safe, be sure to bend at your knees and lift with your legs. Avoid bending at your waist, as this can strain your back.

5. Move the safe slowly and carefully. Once you've lifted the safe, move it slowly and carefully to its new location. Be sure to watch your footing and avoid making any sudden movements.

6. Lower the safe down. Once you've reached the safe's new location, lower it down slowly and carefully onto the floor. Be sure to have your helper(s) support the safe as you lower it down.

Additional tips for moving heavy items like safes:

• When moving a safe, it is important to know its weight. This will help you determine how many helpers you will need and what type of moving equipment you will need to use.

• If you are unsure about the weight of your safe, you can consult the safe's manual or contact the manufacturer.

• Once you know the weight of your safe, you can choose the appropriate moving equipment. For lighter safes, a furniture dolly may be sufficient. For heavier safes, you may need to rent a moving hoist or hire a professional moving company.

• Use a moving pad or blanket to protect the floor from scratches.

• If you're moving the item up or down stairs, use a furniture dolly with a stair ramp attachment.

• Be sure to ask for help when moving heavy items. It's never worth risking injury to try to move something yourself.

How Do You Move a Gun Safe?

Moving a gun safe can be a challenging task due to its weight and size. Here are some tips to help you navigate the process:

1. Preparation is key:

• Empty the safe: Remove all firearms, ammunition, and other valuables.

• Assess the weight and dimensions: Determine the weight and dimensions of your safe to ensure you have the proper equipment and manpower.

• Plan the route: Measure doorways, hallways, and stairs to ensure the safe can be moved through your home and loaded onto the moving vehicle.

2. Gather the necessary equipment:

• Dolly: A heavy-duty appliance dolly is essential for moving the safe.

• Moving blankets: Protect the safe from scratches and dents.

• Straps: Secure the safe to the dolly.

• Ramps: If necessary, use ramps to navigate stairs or uneven surfaces.

3. Enlist help: Moving a gun safe is a two-person job at minimum.

4. Move with caution:

• Lift with your legs, not your back.

• Use proper lifting techniques to avoid injury.

• Move slowly and carefully to prevent tipping or damage.

5. Professional movers: For extremely heavy or complex moves, consider hiring professional gun safe movers. They have the experience and equipment to handle the job safely and efficiently.

Important Considerations Regarding Firearms and Movers:

• Most professional moving companies will not transport firearms.

• It is your responsibility to transport your own firearms.

• You may be able to transport them in a locked, hard-sided container in your personal vehicle.

• Always comply with all local, state, and federal laws regarding firearm transportation.

Bring in the Moving Experts

By following the tips above, you’ll know exactly how to move a safe or other heavy item to its new location. With a little planning and preparation, you can avoid injury and property damage.

If you're not comfortable moving the safe yourself, you can always hire a professional moving company. The experts at Bailey's Moving and Storage know how to handle these heavy items with care and efficiency. Whether it’s to the next room or to your next home, we'll ensure your safe arrives at its destination safely and securely. Contact us today for a free quote and let us take the heavy lifting off your hands.

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