Moving a gun safe is a challenging task, demanding careful planning and execution. Its sheer weight and size make it impossible to move safely without the proper equipment and technique. A dolly is an essential tool in this process, but it’s not a guaranteed solution for a smooth move. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps involved, ensuring your safe arrives at its destination unscathed.
Assessing Your Gun Safe and Choosing the Right Dolly
Before you even think about lifting, you need to accurately assess your safe.
1. Weigh Your Safe:
This is crucial. Manufacturers often provide weight specifications; however, it's wise to double-check, especially if your safe contains heavy items. An incorrectly estimated weight can lead to serious injury or damage to your safe and flooring.
2. Measure Your Safe:
Note its dimensions—height, width, and depth—as well as the location and type of any handles or features that might interfere with moving. This information helps you select the appropriate dolly.
3. Select the Right Dolly:
- Capacity: The dolly's weight capacity must significantly exceed your safe's weight. Aim for at least 50% more capacity to provide a safety margin.
- Size & Design: Choose a dolly with a platform large enough to accommodate your safe's base securely. Consider a dolly with straps or a mechanism to secure the safe to prevent shifting. Appliance dollies with straps are often ideal. Avoid using a simple hand truck.
- Wheels: Look for heavy-duty wheels made for rough surfaces. Pneumatic (air-filled) wheels are best for uneven ground, while smooth hard rubber wheels are preferable for even surfaces.
Preparing for the Move
Thorough preparation is key to a successful safe relocation.
1. Clear the Path:
Remove obstacles (furniture, rugs, etc.) from the path between your safe's current location and its destination. Ensure the route is clear and level as much as possible.
2. Protect Your Floors:
Use furniture sliders or cardboard under the dolly's wheels to protect your floors from scratches and damage.
3. Gather Assistance:
Moving a gun safe is a two-person (or more) job. Having extra help makes the process safer and easier. Don't try to move it alone.
4. Secure the Safe:
Use heavy-duty straps or ratchet straps to secure the safe tightly to the dolly. Ensure it’s stable and won't shift during the move.
Moving the Safe
With everything prepared, it’s time for the actual move.
1. Lifting the Safe:
Use proper lifting techniques—lift with your legs, not your back—and coordinate the lift with your helpers. Slowly and carefully maneuver the safe onto the dolly.
2. Moving the Safe:
Maintain a steady pace and communicate with your helpers. Avoid sudden movements or jerking. Take frequent breaks if needed.
3. Navigating Obstacles:
If you encounter obstacles, carefully maneuver around them. It might be necessary to adjust your route or even use smaller dollies to navigate tighter spaces.
4. Final Placement:
Once at the destination, carefully reverse the process, using the same techniques and safety precautions.
Post-Move Checklist
After relocating the safe, ensure its stability and security.
1. Check for Damage:
Inspect both the safe and the surrounding area for any signs of damage.
2. Secure the Safe:
Bolt the safe to the floor or wall if appropriate.
3. Double-check Securing Mechanisms:
Verify that all locking mechanisms are functioning correctly.
Moving a gun safe is a significant undertaking. Following these steps carefully will minimize the risk of accidents, damage, and injury. Remember, safety is paramount. If you’re unsure about any aspect of the move, consider seeking professional assistance from movers specializing in heavy equipment transport.
