Essential Mover Tools
Everything you need to start your career as a mover. Hand tools, power tools, safety gear, and the estimated startup cost.
At a glance
10
Hand tools
Day-one essentials
4
Power tools
Add as you grow
4
Safety items
Non-negotiable
$500–$2,000 for dollies, straps, blankets, and supplies
Startup cost
Full kit
Hand tools
Essential hand tools
- Furniture dolly (4-wheel)
- Appliance dolly (hand truck)
- Moving straps (forearm and shoulder)
- Furniture blankets / moving pads
- Stretch wrap
- Packing tape and dispenser
- Box cutter / utility knife
- Ratchet tie-down straps
- Floor runners (protective)
- Toolset (screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches for disassembly)
Power tools
Power tools to invest in
- Drill/driver (for furniture disassembly)
- Stair-climbing dolly (motorized)
- Powered pallet jack
- Cargo lift / liftgate
Safety
Safety gear (non-negotiable)
- Back support belt
- Steel-toe boots
- Work gloves
- High-visibility vest
Budget
Estimated startup cost
$500–$2,000 for dollies, straps, blankets, and supplies
A starter kit covers hand tools and basic power tools. Specialized tools (drain machines, bending machines, etc.) are usually purchased once you start handling specific job types.