The Science Of Properly And Safely Moving Exercise Equipment
Exercise equipment is expensive and, when moving a long distance to a new home, taking the equipment with you is a far more fiscally-feasible plan than replacing it. How the items are packed inside of a moving van plays a critical role in keeping the equipment from being damaged or causing damage to other belongings. Due to the unique nature of packing exercise equipment, some special shipping measures have to be taken.
Invest in Storage Cases
Putting barbells, dumbbells, and iron plates into a traditional cardboard moving box is a bit risky. The weights are likely to shift and move around, increasing the chances of harm. To curtail this problem, purchase hard plastic cases specifically designed to house weight. These cases can be a bit expensive, but are worth the investment since they secure the weights and act as a buffer between the weights and other objects.
The one stumbling block to using these cases are, once again, their potentially high cost. A little packing creativity could overcome this obstacle.
Put Slip Covers Around the Equipment
Those who cannot afford storage cases may wish to buy exercise equipment slip covers to place over the weights. Their cost is far lower than plastic cases. Although not as durable as plastic, the covers do act as reliable buffer to prevent scratches if the equipment items slide around and bump into one another.
Using covers is far better than wrapping weights in newspaper since the covers are not going to tear. For the severely budget limited, wrapping up the weights in a standard towel is an option. Use duct tape to tighten up the towel around the equipment so nothing slips off.
Double the Number of Cardboard Boxes
When putting equipment into towels and slip covers, it may be best to store things in two cardboard boxes. Cardboard is, obviously, not as thick, sturdy, or resilient as plastic. Two layers of thick cardboard, however, are not likely to be easily damaged or torn by stored weights. Put the wrapped equipment into one box and then put the first box into a second larger one. Add newspaper or bubble wrap in the space between the two boxes for extra security and stability.
Organize the Contents of the Box
Bungee cord exercise bands with plastic handles should not be put into the same box as cast iron weights. The heavy weights could shift around and crack the other exercise equipment. The simple step of keeping heavier items away from the lighter equipment aids in preserving the merchandise. Contact a moving company, like Movers 201 Inc, for more help.