Learn How to Use a Dolly With These Helpful Hints

When used properly, a dolly can save time, can limit the wear and tear on your back, and can keep the product you’re moving from being damaged. But, while using a dolly might seem straightforward, they’re not as easy as they look.

If you’re not sure how to use a dolly, read on for our tips on how to optimize your use.

Choosing the Right Dolly

The first thing to keep in mind when trying to find the equipment dollies for your move is to not go cheap. Choosing a quality, steel hand truck will ensure that it will stand up to whatever weight you put on it.

Solid wheels are fine for a flat surface, but if you’re looking to move loads up and down curbs, stairs, or other obstacles, inflatable wheels are the best choice for you.

Also, if you have something large, get a dolly with a strap. If you’re not sure how to use the ratchet strap, ask someone for help.

The Basics of Using a Dolly

To get whatever you’re moving onto your dolly, tip the dolly forward enough to slip the plate underneath the item. Then, tip the dolly back onto its wheels, using your hand to hold the item in place. This makes sure that the item tips back with the dolly and not forward onto the floor.

Other pointers:

  • Make sure you’re applying enough force on the top box of a stack of boxes, otherwise the boxes in the middle are going to pop out.
  • If you need to move something upstairs, your hand truck can help. Just take it step by step, rolling your loaded truck slowly up each step to keep your cargo from bouncing off.
  • Don’t tip your dolly too far back when going downstairs. Your hand truck’s slats will slide down the edge and create momentum you’re not ready for.
  • Roll straight over any bumps you might encounter. If you head at it at an angle, your dolly will tip and spill your cargo.

How to Use a Dolly for Moving Boxes

First, make sure you’ve created a straight, balanced stack that won’t fall once you get moving. It’s worth it to take the extra time to make sure that they’re perfectly aligned, because physics always wins.

Before you start moving, make sure your top box is at least resting against the straight part of your hand truck partially. If it’s not, it’s going to slip back and hit you in the throat.

Also, don’t stack boxes so high you can’t see over them.

How to Use a Dolly for Moving Furniture

Use furniture pads to make sure that large wooden piece of furniture doesn’t get scratched. You’ll likely have more luck moving desks and horizontal dressers when moving them on their ends.

Remove anything from inside before attempting this, but standing tall items on their heads will allow you to move them without their legs getting in the way.

How to Use an Appliance Dolly

Maintain safe weight distribution when lifting heavy appliances by starting from behind them. Also, keep the wires, plugs, and hoses off the floor so they don’t get damaged.

You might want to wrap some of these heavier appliances in a furniture pad before moving them, but often this means you won’t get a great grip.

Using a Dolly to Move Heavy Objects

Figuring out how to use a dolly might seem complicated, but as long as you take it slow and follow our tips, you’ll be fine. You’ll be moving your cargo around like a pro in no time!

For more information about hand trucks and other moving and hauling devices, contact us today!