If you're like most people, you probably don't move your furniture very often. So when it comes time to do a big rearrange, the task can seem daunting. How do you move that heavy armoire without damaging your walls—or your back? Read on for some tips and tricks on how to move heavy furniture the right way.

Clear a path

Make sure you have enough space to walk around the furniture and that there are no obstacles in your way. Once you have a clear path, take a few minutes to assess the situation. If possible, disassemble the piece of furniture into smaller components. This will make it much easier to move—and will reduce the risk of damage.
Also, be sure to put down some sort of protection on the floor where you'll be moving the furniture. A blanket or piece of cardboard will do the trick and help prevent scratches.

Lifting and Carrying
When it comes time to actually lift the furniture, it's important to use proper technique so you don't hurt yourself—or damage the piece of furniture. For most pieces of furniture, it's best to have two people lift it. One person should grab hold of one side near the bottom, while the other person does the same on the other side. Then, both people should lift at the same time, keeping their backs straight and using their legs to power the motion.

Start by sliding your sheet of plywood or towel under one end of the furniture piece. Then, tilt the furniture up on its side so that you can get a good grip on it. Next, lift the furniture slowly and carefully, making sure not to strain yourself. Once the furniture is off the ground, start walking towards your destination, keeping the furniture close to your body. If you need to rest, set the furniture down gently and take a break before continuing.

If you're lifting by yourself, place your feet shoulder-width apart and keep one hand on each side of the piece near the bottom before lifting. Again, be sure to keep your back straight as you lift with your legs. When carrying heavy furniture, take small steps and keep your grip tight. Have one person go ahead and guide you so you don't accidentally run into a wall or piece of furniture. You may need to take a break partway through—that's perfectly normal! Just set the piece down gently until you're ready to continue.=

Lowering

Once you reach your destination, lower the furniture onto its side again. Then, use your rope or bungee cords to secure it in place. And that's it! With a little bit of planning and effort, you can easily move heavy furniture by yourself. Just be sure to take your time and stay safe throughout the process.

Moving heavy furniture doesn't have to be a nightmare—as long as you're prepared and use proper technique. By following these simple tips, you can rearrange your space with ease (and without any injuries).