What Is the Easiest Way to Get a Heavy Object Up and Down Stairs?

Dolly

• A moving dolly is an L-shaped device with two rubber tires. The horizontal base of the dolly is a solid sheet of metal and is used to hold the bottom of the heavy object you are carrying. The vertical structure on the dolly is made of metal pipes and also contains handles. The tires are typically large and located where the vertical and horizontal pieces of the dolly meet. An appliance dolly is similar in design, but can handle up to 1,000 pounds and often has built-in canvas straps for securing the load. Some dollies have an additional set of wheels, located above the main tires, that allow the dolly to slide up and down stairs with greater ease. If your dolly doesn't have the extra set of wheels, consider using stair crawler wheels, which mount to the edge of the stair to make using the dolly easier.

Upstairs

• To use a dolly to get a heavy object up the stairs, place the object, such as a bookcase or television, on the floor. Push the dolly up against the object so the horizontal part of the dolly is centered on the object and slides underneath it. Secure the object to the dolly's vertical frame with ropes or bungee cords and, standing behind the dolly, tip it back toward you. Move the dolly to the bottom stair and, with your back to the top of the stairs, pull the dolly up one stair at a time after you ascend each stair. Have an assistant stand on the bottom side of the dolly to push and support it, if needed.

Downstairs

• Taking a heavy object down a set of stairs can be just as difficult and dangerous and taking it upstairs. Secure the heavy object the dolly in the same manner as you would to take the object upstairs, and then position the dolly so you're standing behind it at the top of the stairs. Gently push the dolly forward so the tires roll down to the first stair. Push the dolly again until it reaches the second stair and continue this method down the stairs. An assistant on the other side of the dolly can help you move the dolly one stair at a time.

Safety Considerations

• Even with a dolly, moving heavy objects -- especially on stairs -- is not a one-person job, make sure there is at least one other person on hand. In addition, steel-toed boots, leather gloves and a back belt are recommended to protect you from injury. Inspect all the equipment thoroughly before use. Check that welds are secure, dolly tires are in good condition and straps are not frayed or loose -- on the steps is the last place you want to find out there is a problem with the dolly.