Moving heavy commercial appliances in confined spaces is a challenge many businesses face, especially in kitchens where every inch counts. In this case, our team at Smart Express was tasked with moving a 180 kg commercial fridge into a tight kitchen. The project required careful planning, specialized techniques, a skilled team, and the use of our large, professional moving tail lift truck to transport the fridge safely to the location.
The Challenge
The kitchen had a narrow doorway, tight corners, and limited floor space, making a standard moving approach challenging. The fridge itself weighed 180 kilograms, making it harder to maneuver without risking damage to walls, flooring, or the appliance. Additionally, the client needed the move completed efficiently so their kitchen operations could resume with minimal downtime.
Heavy appliances in tight spaces present unique challenges. Health and safety were a top priority: ensuring the team used correct lifting techniques, protective equipment, and were adequately experienced to coordinate was critical to prevent injury.
Our Approach
1. Pre-Move Assessment:
Before deciding to attempt moving the appliance, the team conducted a thorough site survey. Every doorway, corner, and pathway was measured to determine the safest route. Potential obstacles, including cabinets and kitchen furniture, were identified and temporarily removed.
2. Skilled Teamwork:
A team of three experienced movers was assigned to the project. Each member had clear responsibilities: one led the lift, another supported and guided the movement, and the third monitored safety and obstacles. The team communicated constantly to ensure smooth coordination through tight spaces and around obstacles.
3. Specialized Equipment & Techniques:
To handle the extra weight and limited space, the team used trolleys, lifting straps, and protective padding. The fridge was carefully tilted and rotated as necessary, ensuring that the walls and floors were not damaged. The use of our larger moving trucks, with extra roof height and a wider tail lift, allowed for the safe transportation of the fridge to the site, highlighting our capability to handle heavier commercial equipment effectively. Proper lifting techniques reduced the risk of injury and ensured maximum control and handling of the appliance.
4. Continuous Communication:
Throughout the move, the team maintained constant verbal cues, ensuring each adjustment was carefully coordinated. This communication was essential for navigating tight corners and doorways without damaging the fridge or kitchen interior.
The Outcome
The fridge was successfully moved and installed without any scratches or damage. The client was pleased with the team’s efficiency, professionalism, and care. And the move was completed efficiently, allowing the kitchen to resume operations without any delay.
See What Our Customers Says About Us
“From the initial phone call to the final payment, this company was a dream to work with. They were knowledgeable, kind, and upfront. The cost is a little higher than some other companies that friends have hired in the past, but that’s because of their high quality service! Yad and Tarsem were super polite, strong, and efficient! Even with a piano, the two of them made our move so quick!
Thank you Smart Express!” – Jessie Brown
“Dan team is very efficient and hard working. They were quite helpful and Dan has shown excellent effort in completing our house moving day pleasant and finish on time. Very good experience and reliable team. 👍😊” – Hiren Patel
Key Takeaways
- Planning is crucial: Pre-move assessments help identify potential challenges and to prevent any damage.
- Experienced movers make a difference: A skilled team can handle heavy appliances safely, even in tight spaces.
- Proper equipment and techniques matter: Using trolleys, padding, correct lifting methods, and a larger truck with a tail lift ensures both safety and proper appliance handling.
- Communication is key: Constant coordination helps navigate obstacles and reduces the risk of damage.
Conclusion
Relocating heavy commercial appliances, like a 180 kg fridge in tight spaces is not a simple task. It requires experience, planning, teamwork, and the correct equipment, including a professionally equipped moving tail lift truck. At Smart Express, we combine all of these elements to ensure commercial moves are safe, efficient, and stress-free.
Looking for professional commercial movers in New Zealand? Contact us today to see how our team and fleet of trucks can handle your next project with precision and care.
