Before you Begin

Before making final arrangements for your move, confirm the ability for a Mini to be positioned in the street in front of your residence, in your driveway, in your apartment complex or wherever you like. Check for tight turns and low clearances where a delivery truck may have difficulty maneuvering.

Contact your local utility companies and arrange to have them disconnect your services after you have completed your load.

Prepare the Home

Remove any interior and/or exterior doors, which may be too narrow to allow for the furniture coming out of them. Remove the shock mechanism on the storm doors so the door can open fully. This will allow for easier removal of items through these locations, eliminating the need to open and close the door.

Clear pathways for moving items in and out. For example, remove items from hallways and tie up any low hanging light fixtures.

Disassembling Items

Disassemble furniture such as tables and beds. Consider using a third-party service for items such as pool tables and large wooden swing sets.

Place all hardware into a plastic bag. Label the bag with the item the hardware belongs to. Place all bags containing hardware into a 1.5 cubic foot carton labeled "Parts Box". For ease of locating, this carton should be the last item loaded and the first item unloaded.

Preparing Appliances

A few steps should be taken 24 to 48 hours before loading refrigerators and/or freezers. Disconnect any waterlines and pack glass shelving in a carton. Place a nylon sock full of charcoal or unused coffee grounds inside to control musty odors.

Turn off the water valve for washing machines. Disconnect and place the water and drain hoses inside the machine. Tilt the washer back near a drain to remove any excess water remaining in the drum. If you have a gas dryer, contact a professional to disconnect it. Place dryer vent hoses inside the unit. Before loading these appliances, raise the levelers (feet) to keep them from breaking while in transit.

Safety

When lifting, stand close to the item with your feet shoulder width apart, elbows tucked in, and chin down. Always lift with your legs and not your back, keeping your back as straight and as vertical as possible. Do not twist your back while carrying items. Have an available helper to assist in lifting heavy items. Keep a firm grip on the object using the entire hand.

When using a utility or appliance dolly, make sure the blades are centered and completely under the load. Always keep the dolly in front of you as you walk. Keep the load balanced, with heavier items on the bottom, and never load items on a dolly higher than chest level.

Utilize the strap on appliance dollies to help secure the item. When going up or down the ramp or steps, we recommend that a second person be used to help support the item.