You’ve got your moving truck scheduled, your house is all packed up in boxes and then you remember — you forgot to plan around moving your safe. For any gun enthusiast or safe owner, this scenario can be the stuff of nightmares. Moving a gun safe takes time and planning ahead. Don’t worry though, we’ve broken down the process for you. Here’s what you should be thinking about when figuring out how to move a gun safe.
1. Plan According to Weight
A gun vault can vary significantly in weight but normally sits anywhere between 600 lbs to 3,000. Because the weight range is so broad, it’s important to take it into consideration when planning out your relocation process. Knowing the weight of your safe or vault allows you to be more prepared with the right equipment and steps.
2. Secure Your Valuables
Speaking of weight — the easiest way to make things go a little smoother is to lighten your load. Emptying out your safe will make moving it simpler. Completing this step can also protect your valuables, like gun collections and important documents, from getting damaged or disorganized as things move around. Make sure to secure your belongings outside your safe. Check that all guns are unloaded and have their safeties engaged when emptying your safe.
3. Protect Your Surroundings
The last thing you need to deal with when moving homes is damage caused by clumsy movements. A safe is large and heavy. You can protect your floors by laying down moving blankets or tarps on the floor while you relocate your vault. A moving blanket wrapped and taped around your safe will also protect your walls from sharp corners and adds some security around the vault itself.
4. Bring in The Big Guns
If you feel unprepared or overwhelmed by the prospect of moving your safe, remember that there are trained professionals who can help you if you need assistance. You can hire gun safe movers to do the heavy lifting for you. Normally, safe moving services also provide the option of additional insurance coverage just in case. These companies will have the right equipment, judgment and experience needed to make sure that your gun vault gets from point a to point b with little hassle.
5. Have the Right Equipment
If you do take a DIY approach, make sure you have the right equipment. Many safes are too heavy to move on your own. You don’t want an injury on moving day. Make sure you have enough helping hands to lift your safe. Home improvement stores frequently have supplies available for rent, including blankets and moving dollies. Ensure that any truck you’re packing up has an adequate ramp for getting your safe in and out.
6. Pick A Future Location
Pre-plan where your gun vault will be located in your new home. This will save you labor in the long run. You won’t have to worry about putting the safe in a spot only to have to move it later on. Remember to consider the weight of the safe, the accessibility of the location and the security of your safe. If you need some helpful hints on finding a spot for your safe, check out this blog.
With proper preparation, what might seem like a daunting task becomes relatively simple. Follow these steps to protect your home safe while moving. If you’re thinking of upgrading your current vault or are looking to get your first one, contact Fort Knox today. We’ll help you find the best gun safe for your needs.