by Edwin Lynch | Jan 30, 2025 | Helpful Tips
Protect Your Back if You Are Moving House
Moving house can be an exciting yet challenging experience, especially when you’re doing it yourself (tch! Get in Touch with Us and save your back). One of the most crucial aspects of a successful Perth-based DIY move is knowing safe lifting techniques to help you handle items safely. That’s what this is about. Essential tips and techniques to protect your back and move your belongings without involving a hospital or physiotherapist.
Understand the Risks
Before we dive into the techniques, it’s important to understand why safe lifting is so crucial. According to WorkSafe Queensland, hazardous manual tasks are a leading cause of workplace injuries. While you might not be in a workplace during your move, the same principles apply. Improper lifting can lead to:
- Muscle strains and sprains
- Back injuries
- Shoulder and neck pain
- Long-term musculoskeletal disorders

Prepare Your Body
Before you start lifting, it’s essential to prepare your body:
- Warm up: Spend 5-10 minutes doing light stretches to loosen your muscles.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the moving process.
- Wear appropriate clothing: Choose comfortable, non-restrictive clothes and supportive shoes.
The CLEAR Approach to Safe Lifting
When it comes to lifting, remember the CLEAR approach:
- Close: Keep the load close to your body
- Legs: Use your leg muscles, not your back
- Evaluate: Assess the weight before lifting
- Avoid twisting: Turn your feet, not your waist
- Ready position: Keep a wide base of support
Read: Tips for a Smooth Move
Step-by-Step Safe Lifting Technique
- Plan your lift: Know where you’re going and clear the path.
- Position yourself close to the object.
- Adopt a stable position with feet shoulder-width apart.
- Bend your knees and hips, not your back.
- Get a good grip on the object.
- Tighten your core muscles.
- Lift smoothly using your leg muscles.
- Keep the load close to your body.
- Avoid twisting your body while carrying.
- Set the load down using the same principles as lifting.
Know Your Limits
While there’s no legal weight limit or guide for safe lifting in Australia, it’s crucial to know your personal limits. As a general guideline:
- For standing lifts, aim to keep loads between 16-25kg.
- For loads over 16kg, consider a team lift or using mechanical aids.
- Avoid lifting above shoulder height to prevent back and shoulder injuries.
Read: Reasons Why We Think You Should Hire Professional Movers
Use Mechanical Aids
Don’t hesitate to use tools and equipment to make your move safer:
- Trolleys and hand trucks for heavy items
- Furniture sliders for large pieces
- Safe lifting straps to distribute weight more evenly
Team Lifting
For heavier items, team lifting is essential:
- Choose a partner of similar height and strength.
- Communicate clearly about the lift plan.
- Lift and lower in unison.
- Use countdown signals to coordinate your movements.
Remember, there’s no shame in asking for help. It’s better to be safe than sorry!
Listen to Your Body
Pay attention to warning signs like sharp pains, persistent aches, numbness or tightness.

Final Thoughts
By following these safe lifting techniques, you can significantly reduce your risk of injury during your DIY move. Remember, your health is more important than any possession you’re moving. When in doubt, err on the side of caution.
Moving doesn’t have to be a pain in the back. With proper technique and a bit of planning, you can make your DIY move a safe and successful experience. Happy moving!
by Edwin Lynch | Jan 14, 2025 | Moving House Tips
Moving house is often seen as a stressful (and tedious) experience, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Experience the Joy of Moving … if you can.
In actual fact, relocating to a new home in Perth can be an exciting adventure filled with joy and anticipation. But how do we transform your move into a delightful experience? Even when dealing with the challenges of relocating with pets and children?
Embrace the Change
The first step to experiencing the joy of moving is to embrace the change. Perth, with our stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and beautiful weather, offers a fantastic backdrop for your new chapter. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, almost 42% of people aged 5 years and over moved home during a five-year period. You’re not alone in this journey, and many others have successfully navigated this transition.
Plan Ahead. Stay Organised
One of the keys to a joyful move is proper planning. Start early by creating a moving checklist to keep track of tasks. This approach will help you feel more in control and reduce last-minute stress.
Consider starting your packing process at least two weeks before your scheduled moving day. This gives you ample time to sort through your belongings, perhaps rediscovering forgotten treasures.
Declutter with a Positive Mindset
Moving is the perfect opportunity to declutter and start fresh.
Instead of viewing this as a chore, see it as a chance to simplify your life. Consider donating items you no longer need to local charities or listing them on buy-nothing groups. Not only will this lighten your load, but it will also bring joy to others in your community.
Make Packing Fun
Transform packing from a tedious task into an enjoyable activity. Put on your favorite music or podcast, and turn it into a dance party while you box up your belongings. For families, make it a game – see who can pack a box the neatest or the fastest. Use colorful labels or stickers to brighten up your boxes and make unpacking more exciting.
Involve the Kids
Children can sometimes feel anxious about moving, but involving them in the process can turn their uncertainty into excitement.
Let them pack a special box of their favorite toys to open first at the new house. Encourage them to decorate their moving boxes with drawings or stickers. This not only keeps them occupied but also helps them feel a sense of ownership in the move.
Pet-Friendly Moving
Don’t forget about your furry friends! Pets can sense change and may feel stressed during a move. To ease their anxiety, keep their routine as normal as possible. Get the kids to pack a special “pet essentials” box with their favorite toys, treats, and bedding. This familiar scent will help them feel more at home in the new space. Consider using pheromone scent diffusers recommended by your vet to help calm your pets during the transition.
Hire Professional Removalists
To truly experience the joy of moving, consider hiring professional removalists (yup, a shamless plug for US!). Our affordable removal experts can take a significant burden off your shoulders, allowing you to focus on the exciting aspects of your move. In fact, the removalist industry in Australia has been growing, with a market size of $2 billion. Professional movers bring expertise, efficiency, and peace of mind to your relocation process.
Explore Your New Neighborhood
Once you’ve arrived in your new Perth suburb, take time to explore your surroundings. Perth is known for its beautiful parks and beaches. Plan a family outing to discover local playgrounds, cafes, or walking trails. This not only helps you familiarize yourself with the area but also starts building positive associations with your new home.
Create New Traditions
Moving is an opportunity to start fresh and create new family traditions. Perhaps you could have a weekly picnic at a nearby park or start a movie night tradition in your new living room. These small rituals can help everyone adjust to the new environment and create joyful memories.
Celebrate Your Move
Don’t forget to celebrate your successful move! Once you’re settled, host a housewarming party or a small gathering with new neighbors. This is a great way to start building connections in your new community and mark the beginning of your new chapter in Perth.
Embrace the Perth Lifestyle
Perth offers a unique lifestyle that’s worth embracing. With an average of 8 hours of sunshine per day, you’ll have plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Take advantage of the city’s beautiful beaches, parks, and outdoor spaces. This change in lifestyle can be a source of joy and excitement for the whole family.
Stay Connected
While moving can sometimes feel isolating, remember that technology makes it easier than ever to stay connected with loved ones. Schedule regular video calls with friends and family from your previous location. Sharing your new experiences with them can be a joyful way to maintain those connections while embracing your new life in Perth.
Focus on the Positives
Throughout the moving process, try to focus on the positive aspects of your relocation. Perhaps you’re moving for a new job opportunity, to be closer to family, or simply for a change of scenery. Whatever your reason, keep it at the forefront of your mind when things get challenging.
Take Care of Yourself
Amidst the excitement and busyness of moving, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Maintain your regular eating and sleeping routines as much as possible. Stay hydrated and take breaks when needed. A well-rested and nourished you will be better equipped to handle the challenges and enjoy the joys of moving.
Taking the headache out of it
Moving within Perth doesn’t have to be a headache-inducing experience. By approaching your relocation with a positive mindset, proper planning, and a sense of adventure, you can truly experience the joy of moving. Remember, it’s not just about changing your address; it’s about embarking on a new chapter in your life.
Whether you’re packing up your family home, relocating with pets, or starting a new solo adventure, Perth offers a wealth of opportunities for a joyful and fulfilling life. From its stunning natural beauty to its vibrant culture, there’s so much to look forward to in your new suburb.
So, as you prepare for your move, remember to embrace the process, involve your loved ones, and look forward to the new and exciting experiences that await. With the right attitude and approach, you can transform what many consider a tedious task into a joyful journey of discovery and new beginnings. Your new adventure starts now!