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Expert Picks for January 2026

Best Moving Straps

Lifting straps redistribute weight to your legs and let two people carry what would break four backs. We compared straps from basic shoulder harnesses to forearm lift systems—finding what actually helps.

Last updated: January 28, 2026

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Best Overall Our top recommendation

Best Overall

Forearm Forklift

Forearm Forklift Lifting Straps

4.6 (45,678 reviews)

The original lifting strap system. Loop under furniture, slip forearms through—now you're lifting with legs and leverage instead of just back. Two people required. Dramatically easier.

Capacity

700 lbs (2 people)

Type

Forearm straps

Adjustable

Yes

Material

Nylon webbing

Pros

✓ Leverage-based lifting
✓ 700 lb capacity (two people)
✓ Reduces back strain

Cons

✗ Requires second person
✗ Learning curve
✗ Awkward on some items

$30

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Head-to-Head Comparison

Product	Rating	Price	Action
Forearm Forklift Lifting Straps Best Forearm Forklift	4.6	$30	View
Shoulder Dolly Moving Straps Shoulder Dolly	4.5	$55	View
Lifting Straps for Moving Value TuffStrap	4.4	$20	View
TeamStrap 4-Person Moving System TeamStrap	4.3	$45	View
Professional Moving Harness ProLine	4.2	$15	View

* Prices may vary. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

All Recommended Products

Best Overall

Forearm Forklift

Forearm Forklift Lifting Straps

4.6 (45,678 reviews)

The original lifting strap system. Loop under furniture, slip forearms through—now you're lifting with legs and leverage instead of just back. Two people required. Dramatically easier.

Capacity

700 lbs (2 people)

Type

Forearm straps

Adjustable

Yes

Material

Nylon webbing

Pros

✓ Leverage-based lifting
✓ 700 lb capacity (two people)
✓ Reduces back strain

Cons

✗ Requires second person
✗ Learning curve
✗ Awkward on some items

$30

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Premium Pick

Shoulder Dolly

Shoulder Dolly Moving Straps

4.5 (23,456 reviews)

The pro mover's choice. Shoulder harness distributes weight across your core, hands stay free for balance and doors. Best for stairs where you need to grip railings.

Capacity

800 lbs

Type

Shoulder harness

Features

Hands-free

Best For

Stairs, tight spaces

Pros

✓ Shoulder harness system
✓ 800 lb capacity
✓ Hands stay free

Cons

✗ Most expensive
✗ Setup takes practice
✗ Height difference is challenging

$55

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Best Value

TuffStrap

Lifting Straps for Moving

4.4 (12,345 reviews)

Entry level lifting straps that still work. Less padding than premium options means less comfort on heavy loads, but the leverage benefit is still there.

Capacity

600 lbs

Type

Forearm straps

Material

Polyester

Pack

2 straps

Pros

✓ Budget friendly
✓ Simple design
✓ 600 lb capacity

Cons

✗ Less padding
✗ Basic adjustment
✗ May dig into arms

$20

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TeamStrap

TeamStrap 4-Person Moving System

4.3 (5,678 reviews)

When two people isn't enough. Piano, safe, commercial equipment—four people properly strapped move what seemed impossible. Coordination is key.

Capacity

1200 lbs

People

4 lifters

Type

Team system

Best For

Very heavy items

Pros

✓ 4 people share load
✓ 1200 lb capacity
✓ Heavy items manageable

Cons

✗ Needs 4 people
✗ Coordination required
✗ Complex setup

$45

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Budget Pick

ProLine

Professional Moving Harness

4.2 (8,765 reviews)

The cheapest way to try lifting straps. Won't last forever or handle maximum loads, but introduces you to the concept without investment.

Capacity

500 lbs

Type

Basic forearm

Material

Nylon

Use

Light-medium duty

Pros

✓ Very affordable
✓ Basic function
✓ Backup set

Cons

✗ Minimal padding
✗ Less durable
✗ Light duty

$15

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Buying Guide: How to Choose Moving Straps

How to Choose Moving Straps

Your back has a finite number of heavy lifts before something goes wrong. Moving straps extend that number dramatically.

Types of Moving Straps

Forearm Straps:
Loop under furniture, slip forearms through padded loops. Lift with arms and legs, not lower back. Requires partner at same height.

Shoulder Harness:
Straps go over shoulders and cross the back. Weight distributes across core. Hands stay free. Better for stairs.

Shoulder/Forearm Hybrid:
Uses both shoulder and forearm. Maximum weight distribution. Most comfortable for heavy loads.

### Capacity

Most straps rate 600-800 lbs for two people. That's 300-400 lbs per person—still very heavy.

Real-world capacity is lower than rated because:
Awkward items shift weight
- Uneven floors change balance
- Fatigue reduces strength

### The Two-Person Requirement

Moving straps assume two people of similar height. Significant height difference makes items tilt and one person bear more weight. If heights differ by more than 6", straps become less effective.

### Best Uses

Moving straps excel at:
- Mattresses and box springs
- Dressers and desks
- Sofas and loveseats
- Refrigerators and washers
- Items going up/down stairs

### When NOT to Use Straps

- Solo moving (straps need two people)
- Items that can't be strapped (round, slippery)
- When height difference is significant
- Up/down multiple flights (fatigue is dangerous)

Frequently Asked Questions About Moving Straps

Do moving straps really help?

Absolutely. They transfer lifting from your lower back to your arms and legs, which are designed for lifting. The difference is immediately noticeable and dramatic.

Can I use moving straps alone?

No. Moving straps are designed for two people with the item suspended between them. Solo attempts are awkward at best, dangerous at worst.

What if my partner is much shorter?

Height differences make one person carry more weight. Try to match heights within 6". For bigger differences, use a dolly instead.

Are moving straps safe for stairs?

They can be, but stairs add risk. The lower person bears more weight going up. Stay close to the item, communicate constantly, and never rush on stairs.

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