Moving heavy items safely by van
Heavy items are about weight, route and people. Without any of the three, a simple job becomes a risky one. This page covers what to know before you ask for a quote; it does not promise any special equipment.
Find the real weight
Appliance weights are on the rating plate or the manufacturer's page. For furniture, solid wood and stone are much heavier than they look. Pass the weight on so the van's payload and the help needed can be considered.
- Rating plate or manual weight
- Number of people needed to lift
- Route and floor surfaces
Prepare the route
Remove obstacles, protect the floor and doors, and check stairs and landings. For fridges, empty and switch them off in advance and allow them to settle upright afterwards.
Equipment is not assumed
Sack trucks, straps and a ramp are not guaranteed by a booking. Tail lifts are not confirmed here at all. Ask what the vehicle and crew have before relying on them.
Know when to stop
If an item cannot be carried safely, it should not be carried. Specialist movers or a crane may be needed for very heavy pieces.
Frequently asked questions
Can the driver move a safe?
Do not assume so. Safes can be extremely heavy. Share the weight and ask whether it can be done safely.
What if I do not know the weight?
Give the make and model and the dimensions, or a photo. Then ask what the vehicle and crew can handle.
Related guides
- Tail-lift van requestsRequest a tail-lift van and share item weights, loading space and access at both ends. Confirm the actual vehicle and lift capacity before booking.
- Loading Help, Stairs and Moving AccessPlan loading help, floors, lifts, doorway measurements and legal stopping places. Give the access information needed for a suitable moving quote.
- Moving Van Size GuideCompare Small, Medium, Large and Luton van pictures, example load-space dimensions, payloads and seating. Confirm the actual vehicle’s capacity before booking.
Ready to plan your job?
Go straight to the quote form. A quote request does not reserve a driver.