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Many people rent trucks because they don’t want to pay for storage space for their vehicles when not in use. This can be a wise decision if you only move once every few years, but if you are going through the process more often, it may make sense to invest in your own dolly. It will give you more flexibility when it comes time to relocate your belongings.
What exactly is a dolly?
A dolly is an open platform on rubber wheels that can be used to carry objects from one place to another. It usually has handles to push or pull it easily, but some of them may also have their own motors that allow them to move independently without needing someone else pushing them along.
Anyone who has experienced hauling around a washing machine or refrigerator knows how helpful it can be to have something to do the heavy lifting for you. Using a dolly allows you to carry more than you could on your own, and it does so without straining your back.
Types of dollies
Moving can be stressful, but having the right equipment makes all the difference. Many people may already own dollies, but they’re not all built the same, and they’re not made to perform the same jobs.
Here are some of the most common types to keep in mind as you prepare to move objects from your old house to your new one:
Utility dolly
This is the most plain of all dollies. It’s a simple wooden platform on wheels, which you can use to move boxes and other small items to fit on it. You can either lift the front end to roll it along or make use of its push handle, though be careful if you opt for that second option; the wheels might have a hard time rolling over floor vents, carpet edges, and other obstacles. Utility dollies are a good choice for lighter loads, especially those who may not have much help. It’s also one of the cheaper options available.
Furniture dolly
Furniture dollies are among the most popular types of dollies, and they’re perfect for moving heavy furniture. Their flat surface is ideal for all shapes and sizes of furniture; you can place a small table on top or stack more pieces on top of each other if they’re not too tall. They also have straps so that you can secure your items in place.
Appliance dolly
Appliance dollies are designed to fit specific kinds of large items. They have straps to secure your refrigerator or other appliance, and they can be folded down for compact storage. You’ll need at least one person on either side of the dolly to manoeuvre it, but when you get started, an appliance dolly will help you transport your household appliances safely and efficiently.
Hand truck dolly
One of the most common types of dollies is the hand truck dolly, which has a sturdy grip and large wheels. It’s helpful in lifting heavy objects, such as appliances and furniture, and transporting them.
While this type of dolly is intended to be hand-operated, you can also employ its use with a truck or van. This is especially helpful if you have a heavy load that needs to be moved to your vehicle. As a bonus, some hand truck dollies are foldable, making them easy to store in your trunk or backseat.
Advantages of using moving dollies
A hand truck is a must-have for anyone who moves, whether you’re moving your family across town or just rearranging furniture in your own home. Here are some benefits of using a dolly:
- Reduces the chance of injury
- A moving dolly lets you move large and heavy items, like refrigerators and furniture, with ease. The dolly does the heavy lifting; you only have to push it along. This reduces back strain and general wear and tear on your body, making your move easier on you.
- Dollies let you transport items safely and efficiently. They let you roll through spaces with ease, so you don’t have to worry about knocking things over or getting stuck in tight places.
- You can take more with you at once to save time. If you’re carrying moving boxes, this means fewer trips up and downstairs and in and out of the house. It’s handy for those who live on the second floor.
- You can use the tool on many different surfaces. If you are going to be on carpeted floors or hardwood floors, this kind of device will help you get things moved around without damaging them.
Things to consider when pulling heavy loads with a dolly
There are several things to consider when pulling heavy loads with a dolly: the maximum weight capacity, the number of wheels, the wheel design, and ease of use.
Maximum weight capacity
If you’re transporting heavy loads, you’ll want a cart that can handle them. Look for carts with sturdy materials and high weight capacities.
Number of wheels
A cart with four wheels provides more stability than one with two or three. Also, because each wheel absorbs more of the load, you’ll be able to move heavy objects with a four-wheeled cart than with one that has fewer wheels.
Wheel design
Look for wheels that will move smoothly over different surfaces and tight spaces. You’ll also want to make sure they can handle uneven terrain; otherwise, your load will take a beating on bumpy ground, and so might your back.
Ease of use
The best carts are easy to assemble, store and transport. They also have handles that allow for effortless manoeuvring in tight spaces or around corners without sacrificing stability or your back.
A Dolly Can Help You Move
Although each situation and circumstance will vary, it must be said that dolly has shed new light on moving furniture, especially large items that would require significant strength or manpower to move. Dolly is all about making moving more manageable. Thanks to its unique frame, the dolly can help you move just about anything – from large furniture to heavy boxes and everything in between.
