Big and bulky deliveries are a whole different beast. Whether it’s a couch, a commercial fridge, or a stack of moving boxes, these jobs require strength, strategy, and serious care. But executed well, they’re also some of the most rewarding—literally and professionally.
Here’s how to safely and successfully handle large-item deliveries and keep customers (and your back) happy.
1. Gear Up for the Job
Oversized deliveries are not the time to show up unprepared. Make sure you have:
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A dolly or hand truck
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Moving straps or tie-downs
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Furniture blankets or padding
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Work gloves and closed-toe shoes
If you’re driving your own vehicle, make sure there’s enough clearance and anchor points to keep the load secure.
2. Know the Load Before You Go
Before heading out:
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Check dimensions and weight: If it doesn’t fit in your vehicle or exceeds the weight limit, flag it right away.
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Confirm if stairs or elevators are involved: Multi-floor dropoffs change everything. If it’s a walk-up, be ready—or communicate if assistance is needed.
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Ask if it’s a curbside or inside delivery: Some jobs require threshold delivery only, while others expect full room placement.
3. Lift Smart, Not Hard
You’re not just a delivery driver—you’re now a lifter. Protect your body:
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Lift with your legs, not your back
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Use team lifts whenever possible
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Keep the item close to your center of gravity
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Avoid twisting mid-lift
You’re no good to yourself or the job if you’re injured halfway through the day.
4. Drive Like You’re Carrying Glass
Big items shift. Fast stops and tight turns can damage them—or worse, cause injury.
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Use padding or bungees to keep items in place
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Avoid sudden maneuvers
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Watch overhangs and door clearance on load/unload
And don’t forget—bulky items may block visibility. Take your time, use mirrors, and back up carefully.
5. Deliver with Care and Confidence
When you arrive:
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Communicate before you unload: Call or text to make sure someone’s ready to receive.
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Clear the path: Remove rugs, toys, or anything that could cause a slip.
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Be courteous and calm: The customer may be anxious about damage. Confidence and professionalism go a long way.
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Snap photos of the delivered item in place or in the drop zone—especially if curbside.
6. Report & Reflect
If anything goes wrong—scratched wall, missing piece, tight staircase—report it immediately through the app or to dispatch. Transparency matters.
And after you’re done, take a second to reset: clean your vehicle, hydrate, and prep for the next haul.
Final Thoughts
Big and bulky deliveries may take more effort, but they also show your capability and professionalism. Done right, they turn one-time clients into repeat business—and set you apart from the crowd.
At UniHop, we trust you to carry the load (literally). Deliver smart. Deliver safe. Deliver strong.
