Anyone who has ever had to move a large, heavy piece of furniture around a house or up/down a flight of stairs will tell you that it is a physically imposing task, and not one without a bit of spatial know-how either. When it comes to shifting a bookcase or sofa, it isn’t just a matter of picking it up and going on your merry way. You’ll have to think ahead about where you’re going to grab it, what’s the easiest route to take and, most important of all, whether there are any unsafe impediments to negotiate.

Chic Furniture and Gift (http://www.chicfurnitureandgift.co.uk/shabby-chic-bedroom-furniture) created this great infographic guide to moving furniture quickly, easily and safely around your home. There are guides on moving furniture upstairs and downstairs, a list of the items you’ll most likely need before attempting to lift a heavy or bulky furniture item, as well as some vital tips on moving it as safely as possible.

Without proper consideration, lifting a bookcase up a flight of stairs can be lethal. If you don’t manage to grip it properly, it could come tumbling down on top of you and cause serious injury or even death. For starters, never move heavy furniture on your own. Always have a second (or even third) pair of hands on call to help out.

For more safety tips, check out the infographic below.