Moving your possessions into a storage unit may sound like a simple task, but since it involves lifting and stacking heavy items, it does have its risks. Boxes can tumble, people can trip, and dehydration can set in when you overwork yourself on a hot day. To ensure you remain safe while packing your storage unit, remember to follow these five tips.

1. USE PROPER LIFTING TECHNIQUES

You wouldn't be the first one to strain your back or pull a muscle in your shoulder when lifting a box. To protect against injury, make sure you:

• Bend at the hips and knees only when lifting an item or setting it down.
  
• Keep your back straight, looking right ahead. Do not bend forward as you lift.
  
• Keep your feet shoulder-width apart to provide a wide, supportive base.
  
• Hold the item close to your body as you carry it.
  
• Do not twist your body when carrying a heavy item.
  

If you attempt to pick something up and feel that it's too heavy, ask someone else to help you. If possible, have a few strong friends or family members come help you move your items into your storage unit.

2. USE A DOLLY FOR AWKWARD, HEAVY ITEMS

Instead of trying to grab onto the edge of a strangely shaped piece of furniture, use a dolly to move it. If you're renting a moving truck to transport your things to the storage facility, the facility often includes a dolly, sometimes for a small fee. Take the time to properly strap the furniture to the dolly so it does not fall off and crush anyone's feet.

3. KEEP WATER ON HAND

If at all possible, load your storage unit in the morning when it's not quite as hot outside. Regardless of when you move, be sure to keep plenty of bottled water on hand and sip it throughout the day. It's far too easy to become dehydrated when you're lifting and moving heavy items on a warm day.

Experts recommend drinking between four and eight ounces of water every 15 to 20 minutes during exercise. Packing a storage unit is certainly a workout, so stick to this guideline. If you do notice signs of dehydration, such as fatigue, lightheadedness, dark urine, and flushed skin, take a break from moving, drink some water, and relax in a cool place until you feel better.

4. STACK BOXES PROPERLY

You don't want a stack of boxes tumbling down on you in your storage unit! To reduce your chances of such an accident, remember to:

• Use boxes of the same size so they stack easily.
  
• Place heavy boxes on the bottom and lighter ones on top.
  
• Avoid stacking boxes too high. It's best not to stack them any taller than your body.
  
• Avoid placing furniture on top of boxes. If you place boxes on top of furniture, make sure you don't overload the piece.
  

Make sure you rent a storage unit large enough for all of your items so you have enough space to stack them neatly and safely.

5. ALLOW YOURSELF ENOUGH TIME

When you're in a hurry, you're more likely to trip over something you didn't bother to pick up, stack a box improperly, or even just bang your leg on the door of the storage unit. Plan ahead so you have plenty of time to move items slowly and methodically. Move early enough in the day that you're sure to be done by nightfall, since injuries are more likely when it's dark out.

With the safety tips above, you can move everything into your unit without risk of injury. If you're looking for a safe, convenient storage option in the Santa Cruz area, contact Sutters Fort Self Storage. LLC today.