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Moving a safe can be challenging, whether it’s a small home safe or a larger commercial model. Safes’ weight, size, and delicate contents require careful handling, specialized equipment, and the right approach to ensure a safe and secure move. In this blog, we’ll cover some of the best methods to move safes, with Air-tow Trailers offering an ideal solution.

1. Assess the Size and Weight of the Safe

Before attempting to move a safe, the first step is determining its size and weight. Safes can range from small, personal models weighing just a few hundred pounds to massive vaults weighing several tons. Knowing the weight will help you select the right equipment and determine whether you need professional movers or if the job can be handled with the proper tools.

2. Prepare the Safe for the Move

Secure the contents of the safe before moving it. If the safe contains valuable or fragile items, it’s crucial to remove them and pack them separately. This reduces the risk of damage during the move and ensures nothing is lost. If your safe is heavy, consider removing any substances that could add extra weight.

3. Use the Right Equipment

The most important step in moving a safe is using the right equipment. Dolly carts and hand trucks can be helpful for smaller safes, but for larger safes, you’ll need specialized tools like a heavy-duty moving dolly, moving straps, or even a forklift.  Professionals use specially built sliders or slick sticks, usually wood bars with slippery, polymer furniture-slider material attached to help maneuver the safe.

Using Air-tow Trailers for Safe Transport:

When it comes to transporting large or heavy safes, Air-tow Trailers provide a solution that’s both efficient and safe. Air-tow Trailers’ ground-level loading technology makes loading and unloading heavy items like safes much easier. Here’s why Air-tow is a top choice:

• Low Ground Clearance: Air-tow Trailers have a unique design that allows for easy loading and unloading of heavy items without the need for ramps or lifts. The trailer’s hydraulic suspension lowers the deck to the ground, enabling smooth and simple loading.
• Strong and Durable Construction: Air-tow Trailers are built with strong materials that can handle heavy loads. Their structural integrity ensures that your safe will be transported securely without risk of shifting during transit.
• Wide Range of Sizes: Whether you’re moving a large safe for a commercial business or a smaller home safe, Air-tow offers a variety of trailer sizes that can accommodate different weights and dimensions.
• Easy Maneuverability: Air-tow Trailers are designed to be easy to tow and maneuver, even with large or heavy items. This is especially important when navigating tight spaces or uneven terrain during the move.

4. Secure the Safe During Transport

Once the safe is loaded onto the trailer, securing it is crucial. Use high-quality tie-down straps or heavy-duty chains to ensure that the safe won’t shift during transit. For added security, consider using Air-tow’s heavy-duty D-rings or e-track systems, both of which provide secure anchoring points to hold the safe firmly in place. To ensure the safe is free from scratches, use a moving blanket to protect the exterior of the safe during transport.

5. Transport the Safe to Its Destination

During transport, it’s important to drive slowly and carefully. Avoid sharp turns or sudden stops that could cause the safe to shift, especially when traveling over bumpy roads or uneven terrain. Keep the speed moderate and ensure that the safe is secure before hitting the road. With Air-tow Trailers air suspension and swing-arm axles, you can achieve the smoothest towing experience possible, even when faced with bumps or rough terrain. The Air ride suspension uses pressurized airbags and electronic controls to provide a smooth, shock-free ride by automatically adjusting to varying loads, ensuring consistent ride height. The long pivot arm is mounted with large tapered roller bearings, giving the greatest torsional effect possible, absorbing both horizontal and vertical stresses.

6. Unloading the Safe

When you arrive at the destination, unload the safe carefully. Air-tow Trailers make unloading simple because of their innovative ground-level loading technology. Once the trailer is lowered to the ground, you can easily roll the safe off using a dolly or other equipment. If necessary, use a forklift or crane for larger safes.

7. Reposition and Install the Safe

Once the safe is off the trailer and in place, you may need to reposition it. If you’re installing it in a secure location, be sure to anchor the safe to the floor or walls to prevent it from being moved in the future. Some safes come with pre-drilled anchor holes for this purpose.

Conclusion

Moving a safe doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task if you have the right tools and equipment. Whether moving a small personal safe or a large commercial model, taking the necessary precautions and using proper moving equipment is key to ensuring the safe is transported without damage.

For larger safes or those requiring transport over long distances, Air-tow Trailers provide a safe, easy, and efficient solution. With ground-level loading technology and durable construction, Air-tow Trailers make moving even the heaviest safes a breeze. Contact us today to learn more about our trailers and how they can help you safely and efficiently transport your valuable assets.