How to Use Moving Straps

Moving strapping is very important when it comes to moving because of the invaluable aid they provide in packing, transporting, and unpacking. Moving strapping tape binds things together, either fragile or breakable or both. These tapes are also helpful in tying down the items that you do not want to move around while transporting your goods from one place to another. Before getting any deeper, let's first discuss what a moving strap is?

CALCULATE MY MOVE

What is Moving Straps

Moving strapping tape is typically made of nylon, cotton, or polypropylene materials. The texture of the material used makes these tapes strong to hold things together while being transported. There are different sizes and categories available in the market depending on the work you have at hand.

Techniques to Use Moving Straps

There are two main techniques for using these straps. One is the vertical technique, and the other one is the basketweave technique. These techniques are used for different types of moving situations, so let's look at each in detail to know when to use which technique.

Vertical

This technique involves passing the strap under every basket in every basket row you make. If you have many items to be strapped, it becomes easier to do so if you start this technique. It also gives the strap more holding power since you tighten it while passing it under every basket.

Basketweave

If only one or two items need to be strapped, this technique is ideal. It doesn't allow the strap to be as tight as the vertical technique but makes for a much simpler way of strapping down your goods.

This technique starts by passing the strap under every basket at one corner and ends with it being passed under every basket at another corner, making an inverted "U" shape which you can see if you look at its side.

People prefer to use other techniques for using moving straps, like the over-and-under technique. However, if your goods are not of much value, it is best to stick with the above-mentioned methods since they require minimum human effort and allow things to be strapped down securely enough for transport.

Different Type of Moving Straps

Moving straps come in different types, such as forearm moving straps and shoulder straps.

Forearm Straps

Forearm straps are used to carry boxes of any size. These straps come with a strap at one end, and the other side is closed by some heavy-duty plastic which you can open vertically for carrying your goods.

Shoulder Strap

Shoulder straps are handy for people who move on their own; they provide free hands while transporting their goods from place to place.

CALCULATE MY MOVE

When to use the moving straps

Lifting and shifting a heavy item can be accomplished at any time by using moving straps. However, there are certain situations in which moving straps make more sense than others. Such as:

• Heavy Items: If the weight of your item is more than the average, then it is best to use moving straps. To avoid any unwanted accidents that can occur due to heavy items, such as injuring yourself or damaging the property around you.
• Fragile Items: This also applies if your delicate items need to be transported over a distance. Fragile items can be easily damaged when they are not strapped in the right way due to sudden braking, turning, and bumps on your transport route.
• Transport over a Distance: If you need to go far with your belongings, then it is recommended that you strap them down securely so that there isn't any unwanted movement while transporting over a large distance. This will help avoid any unforeseen damage to your items during transportation.

You can use moving straps in three ways; to carry, strap down and tie together.

Carrying Boxes Using Moving Straps

Forearm straps are the best for carrying boxes of any size. You can attach them by opening the heavy-duty plastic at one end vertically and then closing it back. After you have your box balanced on the forearm strap, hold it with one hand close to your body while moving around for better balance.

Strap Down Moving Boxes Using Straps

You can make use of both shoulder belts and forearm straps to strap down your boxes. You can avoid unnecessary movement of the boxes by strapping them down using straps at different places. In this way, you can move the entire group of boxes at once instead of unpacking the items one by one from each box.

Tying Together Separable Items Using Moving Straps

Separable items do not have a common base; moving strapping tape can tie them together. Just open the heavy-duty plastic at one end of the strap and then tie up all your items together, which you wish to transport from place to place.

How to Use Moving Straps- General Instruction

The same basic rules apply whether you use arm or shoulder straps. Every Moving strap comes with instruction manuals, so you should check those out first. But here are the instructions for using moving straps:

• Read the instructions carefully and understand what exactly needs to be done. If you do not, you may do something wrong and damage your items during the process.
• Wear appropriate clothes and shoes. Do not wear delicate clothes, as you may damage them during the process.
• Ensure you have measured the furniture and any pathways, halls, or stairwells you'll need to go through before moving anything. Clear the moving area before beginning the process.
• Depending on the moving strap you're utilizing, place the straps over your forearms or across your chest and shoulders.
• If the item is set on a flat surface, place the moving strap underneath it. You can also place it over the item and then slowly lift it.
• Make sure you don't lift the item too high, as this may cause damage to your back or other body parts of yours. Ensure that you do not twist your back while doing so.
• Once you have lifted the object, bring it near where you want to take it. Make sure you do not damage anything along the way like walls, doors, and windows by coming in contact with them as you bring your items closer.
• Moving straps are pretty straightforward to use, but it is important to keep these tips in mind before strapping down your goods:
• If there is a chance of rain or you are moving during rain, do not lay the straps on the ground since they can get wet and become less effective or damage your car's paint if laid under the tires.
• If you are transporting over a distance, it is best to place some plastic sheeting under the straps. This will prevent water from entering underneath your goods while keeping them secure in place.
• Do not tighten down the moving straps too much since they can cut off the circulation of your item, so only tighten them until they are securely in place.
• Do not use moving straps to lift items since they are not designed for that purpose, and it will damage both the strap and the item you are lifting. It is best to use a proper hand truck to lift heavy items.
• Once you are done using them, it is best to store the straps in a dry place since they are not designed for prolonged outdoor use.

CALCULATE MY MOVE

How to use moving straps on stairs

Shoulder straps are your best friend if you need to move a piece of furniture, an appliance, or any other heavy object up or downstairs. They will assist you in carrying the hefty item without strain and safely negotiating the steps. As with the shoulder dolly, make sure the heavier partner walks lower on the stairs to help support the weight from the top.

Use the same technique as the dolly for ascending or descending stairs, keeping your elbows bent and close to your body (and using the rails if available). Keep in mind that one partner should be on each side. This will ensure maximum stability. A moving strap can also be used to tie together separable items like suitcases and secure the load on the side facing the inside of a moving truck.

How to use moving straps with ramps

The strap is not what holds your load down - it's only there for support and balance. You hold it like you would hold a shoulder strap, but make sure that you don't move out too far past the end of the ramp as you lose stability and can cause your load to tilt over.

If possible, use the loading ramp to guide how far out to hold your strap. You should line up with the beginning of the first roller (the end closest to you). Secure one end of your moving strap lower on the handlebar and keep the strap entirely on the moving ramp. The weight of your load should prevent it from falling off, but you can always place a couple of bungee cords around the handlebars for extra safety.

Moving straps should also not be used on a ramp that is not a moving truck or other vehicle. Again, the amount of force required to keep your load from going too far out can cause you harm.

If you need to use the strap on a non-moving surface, only do so if it's for short distances and with the utmost care.

How to use a moving strap on a flat surface

To transport a load on a flat surface, place the strap behind your object and loop it through so that both straps are in front. Pick up the item from the back center of your load and keep one hand on each handlebar close to your body while walking to where you need to go.

If you are using the item on a moving truck or vehicle, place the strap in front of your load with both straps looped around one handlebar. This will keep it taut and prevent any tripping hazards.

How to secure your load with a moving strap

Please pick up your object by its back center, taking note that an odd-shaped load will require you to pick it up at a certain angle. Keep one hand on each handlebar close to your body and walk slowly forward.

Do not use the shoulder strap to lift large appliances or furniture since it's not designed for that purpose and will bend, snap, or break if too much pressure is applied. A dolly or hand truck are better tools for lifting heavy objects.

Keep the load secured to your body, not just with the strap but also by keeping your elbows bent close to you. The strap will keep your object from sliding off, but it's still important to keep one hand on each handlebar so you can catch it should it fall off.

Conclusion

Moving straps are a handy tool to have in your arsenal when it comes time for moving day. From securing heavy objects on flat surfaces or inside a truck to carrying something up and downstairs, these versatile tools can be used in many different ways depending on the situation. Keep this article as a reference when you need help deciding how best to use them!

CALCULATE MY MOVE

Frequently Asked Question

How do you use a moving strap?

Place the straps approximately halfway down the object you're planning to move. Swing the straps over the top of your head and around to the opposite side—transfer one strap's ends, looped together, to each hand. Use the handles to keep the object close to you, not letting it hang lower than your waist. Keep one hand on each strap and walk slowly forward.

Do moving straps work?

Yes, moving straps can be an effective tool for moving heavy items. However, they are only as strong as the person using them and should not be used on an object which is too large or too awkward to carry safely.

What does a moving strap look like?

A moving strap is basically like a nylon shoulder strap that's wider and usually made of wider nylon webbing. It can be made of varying lengths, and there are times when you will see two straps looped together to give this tool even more strength.

Does a moving strapwork on stairs?

Moving straps are designed to keep heavy objects secured while being carried or transported; they are not designed for use on stairs. A dolly or hand truck is best to use on stairs since they are designed for this purpose.

Also See: How to use Furniture Moving Sliders | How to Move TV | Top Long Distance Movers in the US