Can the lift be used for moving?

Today we would like to talk to you about a very controversial subject, especially in neighbourhood communities, where we generally find two very different opinions. Can the lift be used for moving? While on the one hand, it is claimed that the lift brings a lot of agility and speed to this process, the detractors argue that the inconvenience and the possibility of lift breakdowns are very real.

We, as experts in the sector, would like to give you our personal opinion. We do not recommend the use of the lift for moving, especially if it does not have a load weighing device, an essential element. If the situation prevents you from using it, we recommend you to use lift protectors for removals.

The only exception is if it does not exceed the maximum load limit and is a small package. Remember that, to see the maximum weight of your lift, it will be marked in the cabin. In addition, if you are going to use the lift for moving, it is advisable to cover the walls and protect the floor to avoid knocks and scratches.

We’ll tell you about it below!

Why is it not advisable to use the lift for removals?

In moving and building works it is very important to know how to protect a building, with lifts being one of the points that can suffer a series of damages that either disable their use, or cause them to suffer some kind of breakdown that affects the whole community of neighbours.

One of the main problems is overloading. Nowadays, most lifts, except the oldest ones, have a load weighing system, whose function is to prevent the lift from moving with more weight than it should, in order to avoid accidents and wear and tear on the brakes or the traction unit. The lift’s capacity is always limited to a specific weight, and if it is forced to move more than recommended, a situation that is common in removals, it will suffer. In addition, we can find other types of problems such as:

• Overstretching and loss of cable thickness.
• Wear and deterioration of pulleys.
• Machinery can burn out.

How to protect the lift during a move?

In order to protect the lift during a removal, it is advisable to install load weights in the cabin. On the other hand, if we focus on the more human side of a move, we can find three main problems:

The noises

In addition to the noises caused by moving furniture, where it is common to hear banging or squeaking noises on the floor, the continuous opening of doors or movements of the lift can be uncomfortable for the neighbours. We suggest that you replace the current lift tractor unit in your community with a Gearless machine, which will at least solve the noises caused by the lift!

Inability to use the lift

A move can take many hours of the day, or even several days, preventing the other neighbours from using the lift, which will be blocked exclusively for moving furniture. This situation can generate a lot of discomfort or discontent in the community.

This is one of the most unavoidable problems when moving house. Thus, if you are going to use the lift, we recommend that you put up an apology sign for moving in a lift.

Displacement of ceilings

When the lift is loaded with tall furniture or electrical appliances such as a refrigerator, the ceilings are displaced and are poorly seated. This is a serious safety problem, as the ceiling can fall down during travel. We recommend that you write to us and ask about the use of anti-fall ceiling kits.

Other damage to avoid

Scratches, bumps on the cabin panels or doors are common when handling furniture in and out of the lift. We recommend using bubble wrap, bubble film or similar protection to protect both your furniture and the lift.

How to make a move without a lift?

We care about your wellbeing and that is why we want to offer you a series of alternatives so that you can carry out your move without damaging your lift.

Some of the most feasible options are:

Dismantle all furniture and carry it up the ladder

This is probably the most common option. The idea is to carry the different pieces of furniture up to the house in as small pieces as possible and then assemble them there. In this case, in order not to disturb the neighbours, special care must be taken not to hit or rub against the walls, doors and main communal areas.

Use of special trolleys

The use of special trolleys is an option often offered by removal companies, especially for transporting household appliances and other items that cannot be dismantled.

Use of lifting platforms

The use of telescopic lifting platforms can be installed along the façade, in order to bring the furniture through the widest window of the house.

We recommend installing the load weight to protect the lift in the event of an overload, with a removal company or masonry company. In this way, you will avoid possible damage to your lift.

We hope we have helped you with your next move!

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