Quick Guide: How to Use a Dolly
Fact Checked by: Moving is stressful. Whether you’re renting a truck or hiring pros, knowing how to use a dolly can make a world of difference. Dollies help you move heavy boxes, appliances, and furniture with less strain and more safety. But using one the wrong way can lead to injury or damage and no one wants that added headache on moving day.
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Types of dollies: Find the right tool for your move
Picking the right dolly helps you move faster and safer. Use the chart below to match your heaviest or bulkiest item to the right tool.
| Dolly type | Best for | Weight limit | Key features | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hand truck / box dolly | Boxes, small furniture, stacked items | Up to 400 lbs | Upright L-shaped frame, 2 wheels, handles | Versatile, easy to maneuver, good for stairs | Not for large appliances or oversized furniture |
| Appliance dolly | Fridges, washers, heavy appliances | Up to 800 lbs | Extra-tall frame, straps, 2 wheels, stair climbers | Safely secures and moves bulky, heavy items | Heavier, less versatile for small items |
| Furniture dolly / 4-wheel dolly | Large furniture, pianos, dressers, desks | Up to 1,000 lbs | Flat platform, 4 swivel wheels, no handles | Moves big, heavy pieces easily on flat ground | Not for stairs or rough terrain; no built-in straps |
If you’re not sure which dolly you need, think about your largest or heaviest item first. The right dolly is the difference between a smooth move and a strained muscle.
How to use a dolly: Step-by-step instructions for every type
Moving with a dolly is safer and easier when you follow a few key steps. Always put safety first.
General safety tips before you begin
Before you start moving anything, set yourself up for success with basic safety prep.
- Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and long pants: Protect your feet and legs from dropped items.
- Clear your path: Remove rugs, cords, and clutter; check for stairs, bumps, or tight corners.
- Stay within weight limits: Never overload the dolly — make two trips if needed.
- Lift with your legs: Keep your back straight and hinge at the knees to avoid injury.
- Team up for heavy or awkward items: Don’t go it alone if you’re unsure.</li
How to use a hand truck / box dolly
Hand trucks are great for stacked boxes and small furniture. Here’s how to use one safely:
- Prep your route: Make sure your path is clear and doors are open.
- Stack items: Put the heaviest box on the toe plate and stack lighter boxes on top. Make sure you can see over your load.
- Load the dolly: Tilt the boxes gently, slide the plate underneath, then set the stack back against the frame.
- Find the balance point: Place a foot on the axle and tilt the dolly back until the weight feels stable on the wheels.
- Push, don’t pull: Move forward, guiding the dolly. Pushing gives you more control.
- For stairs: Stay above the dolly with a spotter below. Take one step at a time.
- Unload: Lower the dolly, tilt forward, and slide the stack off carefully.
Tip: Use a ratchet strap or bungee to secure stacks when crossing thresholds or uneven ground.
How to use an appliance dolly
Moving appliances safely takes extra prep. Here’s how to do it right:
- Measure doorways and paths: Confirm the appliance fits through every space.
- Prep the appliance: Unplug, defrost, empty, and wrap in moving blankets. Tape down cords and hoses.
- Slide the dolly under: With a helper, gently tip the appliance and slide the dolly under one side (not the front or back).
- Secure with straps: Use the dolly’s straps to secure the appliance — snug, but not too tight.
- Find the balance point: Step on the axle and tilt back until the load feels centered.
- Move with care: Always push. For stairs, one person stays above, one below — move slowly and communicate.
- Unload: Reverse the process, keeping the appliance upright.
Insider tip: If your dolly doesn’t have built-in straps, use rope or a logistics strap from your truck.
How to use a furniture / 4-wheel dolly
Furniture dollies help you move big, awkward pieces — but only on flat surfaces. Here’s what to do:
- Clear and prep the path: Remove obstacles and measure tight spots.
- Prep the item: Empty furniture, remove drawers, and wrap in blankets. Secure with tape or bands.
- Lift and load: With a partner, lift the piece onto the dolly. Set it on its side or back for stability.
- Balance the load: Distribute weight evenly — sometimes this means offsetting the center a bit.
- Secure if needed: Use straps, bungees, or rope to keep items from sliding.
- Push, don’t pull: Move from the back and have your partner guide the front. Go slow around corners.
- Never use on stairs: Furniture dollies are for flat surfaces only.
Pro tip: For outdoor moves, lay down plywood to create a rolling path over grass or gravel.
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Loading techniques: Get heavy items safely onto the dolly
Loading is where most injuries and accidents happen. Careful technique keeps you and your belongings safe.
For boxes and small items
- Stack heavy boxes first: Heavier boxes on the bottom, lighter on top.
- Solo loading tip: Tilt boxes and slide the toe plate under using your foot.
- Don’t overstack: Keep stacks low enough to see over them.
For appliances
- Always empty and unplug: Prep appliances before moving.
- Wrap to protect: Use moving blankets to prevent dents and scratches.
- Use two people: Gently tilt and slide the dolly under the side, not the front or back.
For furniture
- Remove drawers and cushions: Make the load lighter and easier to manage.
- Wrap and secure: Use blankets plus tape or bands to protect and hold everything in place.
- Lift with your legs: Protect your back and get a partner for heavier items.
- Center the item: Place furniture squarely on the dolly so it won’t tip.
Balancing and securing loads: Keep your stuff (and yourself) safe
Proper balance and secure loads are key to safe, efficient moving. Here’s how to check your setup:
How to find the balance point
- Test balance before moving: Place your foot on the axle and tilt back slowly.
- Look for stability: The load should feel light and steady — not wobbly or close to tipping.
- Adjust if needed: If the load feels off, reorganize or get help.
Securing loads: Straps, belts, and ropes
- Use ratchet straps or bungees: Secure appliances, tall stacks, or slippery furniture.
- Wrap around both item and dolly: This keeps things from shifting mid-move.
- For odd shapes: Moving bands or rope help stabilize awkward items.
Double-check yourself: If nothing wobbles and you can briefly let go without the load shifting, you’re good to go.
“We moved several glass tables and family heirlooms. Securing everything tightly with straps made a huge difference — nothing shifted during the move.”
Maneuvering and safety tips: How to use a dolly like a pro
Take your dolly skills up a notch with these practical tips that protect your back, floors, and belongings.
- Push, don’t pull: You’ll have better control and avoid injury.
- Keep hands and feet clear of wheels: Especially when turning or backing up.
- Go slow over bumps and thresholds: Rushing risks accidents.
- Use a spotter: For stairs, tight corners, or uneven ground.
- Never use a 4-wheel dolly on stairs: Stick to hand trucks or appliance dollies for steps.
- Check wheels for debris: Clean wheels prevent floor damage and make rolling easier.
“We moved a full-size arcade game with a dolly, and having two people made all the difference for navigating tight hallways and thresholds. Take it slow, and don’t try to muscle it solo.”
Common mistakes to avoid when using a dolly
Even experienced movers slip up. Avoid these frequent errors to keep your move safe and smooth:
- Overloading the dolly: Respect weight limits — make more trips if needed.
- Improper tilting or balancing: Always find the balance point before moving.
- Pulling instead of pushing: Pushing is safer and gives you more control.
- Not securing the load: Unstrapped items can fall, break, or cause injuries.
- Skipping safety gear: Protect yourself with closed-toe shoes and gloves.
- Using a damaged dolly: Inspect for cracks, wobbly wheels, or broken straps.
- Moving heavy or awkward loads alone: Teamwork prevents injuries and accidents.
When not to use a dolly (and what to do instead)
Some situations call for a different approach. Consider other options if:
- Item is too heavy or fragile: Don’t risk your safety — hire a professional mover.
- Pathways are extremely narrow or uneven, or have steep stairs: A dolly may not fit or could tip.
- Item is too large for doors or elevators: Disassemble or use furniture sliders instead.
- Delicate and high-value items: For things like pianos or antiques, use specialized moving equipment or pros.
If you’re unsure, contact a moving pro or your truck rental provider for advice. Your safety comes first.
FAQs about how to use a dolly
Can I use a dolly on stairs?
You can use a hand truck or appliance dolly on stairs, but never a 4-wheel (furniture) dolly. Always have a partner — one above, one below — and secure your load with straps before attempting steps. Take it slow and steady for safety.
What’s the difference between a hand truck and a dolly?
People often use the terms interchangeably, but technically a hand truck (box dolly) is upright with two wheels and a toe plate, while a furniture dolly is a flat platform with four wheels and no handles. Appliance dollies are hand trucks with built-in straps and stair climbers.
How do I secure awkwardly shaped items?
Wrap the item with moving blankets, then use ratchet straps or bungee cords to tie it securely to the dolly. For especially awkward shapes, rope or moving bands help keep everything stable during transport.
What safety practices should I follow when using a dolly?
- Wear closed-toe shoes and gloves: Protect yourself from scrapes and dropped items.
- Inspect the dolly for damage: Look for cracks, loose wheels, or broken straps.
- Push, don’t pull: It’s safer and easier to control.
- Work with a spotter: Especially for heavy or awkward loads.
- Clear and measure your path: Plan your route before moving.
How do I choose the right dolly for my move?
Match the dolly to your heaviest or bulkiest item. Use a hand truck for stacked boxes, an appliance dolly for fridges or washers, and a 4-wheel dolly for large furniture. If you’re unsure, ask your truck rental provider or moving company for recommendations.
Additional resources and related links
Get more moving tips and tools to simplify your move:
Move smarter, not harder
Learning how to use a dolly can make your move safer, faster, and a whole lot less stressful. With the right dolly, smart loading, and a focus on safety, you’ll protect your stuff — and your back. If you’re ever unsure, team up with a partner or hire professional movers to avoid mishaps.
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