Moving a gun safe is no small feat. These heavy, often awkwardly shaped behemoths require careful planning and the right equipment to avoid injury and damage. This guide breaks down the easiest way to move a gun safe, covering everything from preparation to the actual move.
Assessing Your Gun Safe and Your Situation
Before you even think about lifting, you need a thorough assessment:
1. Weighing Your Safe:
This is crucial. Gun safes range dramatically in weight, from a few hundred pounds to well over a thousand. Knowing the weight determines the equipment and manpower you’ll need. Check the manufacturer's specifications or use a reliable scale if possible.
2. Measuring Your Safe:
Accurate dimensions (height, width, depth) are vital for navigating doorways, hallways, and stairs. Consider not only the safe itself but also any necessary clearances for opening doors or maneuvering around corners. Account for even minor obstacles like door frames or protruding fixtures.
3. Planning Your Route:
Map out the exact path from the safe's current location to its new destination. Identify any potential obstacles and assess whether you need to remove furniture or trim doorways. A clear path minimizes the risk of damage or injury.
Gathering the Necessary Equipment and Assistance
Moving a gun safe safely and efficiently requires the right tools and help:
1. Appropriate Moving Equipment:
- Heavy-duty appliance dolly: A sturdy dolly with straps is essential for most gun safes. Choose one with a weight capacity significantly exceeding your safe's weight.
- Moving straps/a furniture dolly strap system: These distribute the weight evenly across multiple people, greatly reducing strain on any individual.
- Wheel chocks: To secure the dolly and prevent accidental movement during the move.
- Furniture sliders: These can be invaluable for moving the safe over carpeted areas or across thresholds.
- Level: Ensuring the safe is level on the dolly prevents tipping.
- Gloves: Protect your hands during the moving process.
2. Sufficient Manpower:
Moving a gun safe alone is dangerous and impractical. Gather a team of strong, reliable individuals. The number of people needed depends on the safe's weight and the difficulty of the move. Two people might suffice for lighter safes on a level surface, but a larger crew may be necessary for heavier safes or navigating stairs.
The Moving Process: Step-by-Step
1. Preparation:
- Empty the safe: Remove all contents to lighten the load and avoid accidental damage.
- Secure the doors: Close and lock the safe's doors to prevent them from opening during the move.
- Protect the safe: Cover the safe with blankets or padding to protect its finish from scratches or dents.
2. Positioning the Dolly:
- Place the appliance dolly as close to the safe as possible.
- Position the dolly so the wheels are facing in the direction of movement.
3. Lifting and Securing:
- Carefully lift the safe onto the dolly, using proper lifting techniques (bend your knees, keep your back straight). This might require leverage with straps, teamwork and several lifting attempts.
- Securely fasten the safe to the dolly using straps to prevent shifting during transport.
4. The Move:
- Move slowly and deliberately, communicating with your team to coordinate movements.
- Be mindful of doorways, hallways, and stairs.
- Use furniture sliders to navigate carpeted areas or difficult thresholds.
- Use wheel chocks to secure the dolly if you have to take a break.
5. Positioning the Safe:
- Once in the new location, carefully maneuver the safe into its final position.
- Make sure it's level before releasing it from the dolly.
Post-Move Considerations
- Check for Damage: Inspect the safe for any signs of damage sustained during the move.
- Bolting Down: If appropriate, bolt the safe to the floor or wall for added security.
- Final Inspection: Ensure the safe is functioning correctly.
Moving a gun safe requires planning, teamwork, and the right equipment. Prioritizing safety and using these steps will significantly increase your chances of a smooth and successful relocation. If you're unsure about your ability to handle the move safely, consider hiring professional movers specializing in heavy equipment transport. Remember, safety should always be the top priority.
