The weight capacity of a furniture dolly typically ranges from 600 to 1,200 pounds, depending on the model and design. Some heavy-duty models can support up to 2,000 pounds or more. The capacity is determined by factors such as the materials used in construction, the size and type of wheels, and the overall design of the dolly. Always check the manufacturer's specifications for the exact weight limit of a specific dolly model.

1. **Inspect the Dolly**: Before use, check the dolly for any damage or defects, such as loose wheels or a cracked platform. 2. **Plan the Route**: Clear the path of any obstacles and ensure the route is wide enough for the dolly and the furniture. 3. **Load the Furniture**: Position the dolly close to the furniture. With assistance if needed, tilt the furniture and slide the dolly underneath. Ensure the weight is centered on the dolly. 4. **Secure the Load**: Use straps or ropes to secure the furniture to the dolly, preventing it from shifting or falling during transport. 5. **Check Weight Limits**: Ensure the furniture does not exceed the dolly's weight capacity to avoid damage or accidents. 6. **Use Proper Lifting Techniques**: Bend your knees and keep your back straight when lifting furniture onto the dolly to prevent injury. 7. **Push, Don’t Pull**: Always push the dolly rather than pulling it. This gives you more control and reduces the risk of injury. 8. **Move Slowly and Steadily**: Navigate slowly, especially around corners or on inclines, to maintain control and prevent tipping. 9. **Use Ramps for Elevation Changes**: When moving up or down stairs or curbs, use a ramp if available. If not, have someone assist in lifting the dolly. 10. **Communicate with Helpers**: If working with others, communicate clearly to coordinate movements and ensure safety. 11. **Avoid Overloading**: Do not stack items too high, as this can make the load unstable and increase the risk of tipping. 12. **Store Properly**: After use, store the dolly in a safe, dry place to prevent damage and ensure it is ready for future use.

1. **Utility Dolly**: Also known as a hand truck, this dolly features a vertical frame with two wheels and a small platform at the bottom. It's ideal for moving boxes and smaller furniture items. 2. **Furniture Dolly**: This is a flat, four-wheeled platform with a wide base, designed to support heavy furniture pieces like sofas and dressers. It often has a non-slip surface to keep items secure. 3. **Appliance Dolly**: Specifically designed for moving heavy appliances, this dolly includes straps and a taller frame to secure items like refrigerators and washing machines. It often has stair climbers to navigate steps. 4. **Piano Dolly**: Built to move pianos, this dolly is heavy-duty and features a wide, stable base with locking wheels to handle the weight and size of pianos safely. 5. **Carpeted Dolly**: Similar to a furniture dolly but with a carpeted surface to prevent scratches and damage to delicate furniture finishes. 6. **Convertible Dolly**: This versatile dolly can switch between a utility dolly and a platform dolly, offering flexibility for different moving needs. 7. **Panel Dolly**: Designed for moving large, flat items like doors, windows, and drywall, this dolly has a vertical frame with a slot to hold panels securely. 8. **Heavy-Duty Dolly**: Built for industrial use, these dollies can handle extremely heavy loads and are often used in warehouses and factories. 9. **Platform Dolly**: A simple, flat platform with four wheels, used for moving large, bulky items. It often has a handle for easy maneuvering. 10. **Furniture Skates**: Small, low-profile dollies placed under each corner of a piece of furniture, allowing it to glide across the floor easily.

1. **Weight Capacity**: Determine the weight of the furniture you need to move. Choose a dolly with a weight capacity that exceeds this to ensure safety and efficiency. 2. **Type of Dolly**: - **Furniture Dolly**: Ideal for large, heavy items like sofas and dressers. It has a flat platform with four wheels. - **Appliance Dolly**: Equipped with straps and a taller frame, perfect for heavy appliances like refrigerators. - **Hand Truck**: Suitable for smaller, stackable items. It has two wheels and a vertical frame. 3. **Wheel Type**: Consider the surface you’ll be moving across. Hard rubber or polyurethane wheels are good for smooth surfaces, while pneumatic wheels are better for rough or uneven terrain. 4. **Size and Maneuverability**: Ensure the dolly fits through doorways and tight spaces. A smaller dolly is easier to maneuver in confined areas. 5. **Material**: Choose a dolly made from durable materials like steel or heavy-duty plastic for longevity and reliability. 6. **Additional Features**: Look for features like non-slip surfaces, adjustable straps, or foldable designs for added convenience and safety. 7. **Budget**: Balance cost with quality. Investing in a slightly more expensive, durable dolly can save money in the long run. 8. **Frequency of Use**: If you move furniture frequently, invest in a high-quality, durable dolly. For occasional use, a basic model may suffice. 9. **Rental vs. Purchase**: For one-time moves, consider renting a dolly. For frequent use, purchasing might be more cost-effective. 10. **User Reviews and Recommendations**: Check reviews and ask for recommendations to ensure reliability and performance.

No, a furniture dolly is not suitable for use on stairs. A furniture dolly is designed for flat surfaces and typically consists of a flat platform with four wheels, which makes it ideal for moving heavy items across level ground. However, its design does not accommodate the uneven and inclined nature of stairs. Attempting to use a furniture dolly on stairs can lead to loss of control, potential damage to the item being moved, and a high risk of injury to the person handling it. For moving items up or down stairs, specialized equipment like a stair-climbing dolly or hand truck with stair-climbing capabilities should be used. These are designed with features such as rotating wheels or tracks that can navigate the steps safely.

Furniture dollies are typically made from a combination of materials to ensure durability, strength, and ease of use. The main components include: 1. **Wood**: The platform of many furniture dollies is often made from hardwood or plywood. Hardwood provides strength and can support heavy loads, while plywood offers a balance of strength and cost-effectiveness. The wood is usually treated or coated to resist moisture and wear. 2. **Metal**: Steel or aluminum is commonly used for the frame or structural components of furniture dollies. Steel provides high strength and durability, making it suitable for heavy-duty applications. Aluminum, being lighter, is used in dollies where weight reduction is important, though it may not support as much weight as steel. 3. **Plastic**: High-density polyethylene (HDPE) or other durable plastics are sometimes used for the platform or frame. Plastic dollies are lightweight, resistant to moisture, and often more affordable, but they may not support as much weight as wood or metal. 4. **Rubber**: The wheels of furniture dollies are often made from rubber or a rubber-like material. Rubber wheels provide good traction and are gentle on floors, reducing the risk of scratches or damage. Some dollies use polyurethane wheels for added durability and smooth movement. 5. **Carpet or Padding**: The platform may be covered with carpet or padding to protect the furniture being moved and to prevent slipping. This is especially common in dollies designed for delicate or easily damaged items. 6. **Fasteners and Hardware**: Bolts, screws, and other fasteners are typically made from metal, such as steel, to ensure secure assembly and long-lasting performance. These materials are chosen to balance strength, weight, cost, and functionality, making furniture dollies versatile tools for moving heavy items.

To maintain and store a furniture dolly, follow these steps: 1. **Cleaning**: Regularly clean the dolly to remove dirt and debris. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the surfaces, and ensure the wheels are free from grime that could impede movement. 2. **Inspection**: Frequently inspect the dolly for any signs of wear and tear. Check the wheels for cracks or flat spots, and ensure that the axles are secure. Look for any loose screws or bolts and tighten them as necessary. 3. **Lubrication**: Apply lubricant to the wheel axles and any moving parts to ensure smooth operation. Use a silicone-based lubricant to prevent rust and maintain mobility. 4. **Repair**: Address any minor damages immediately. Replace worn-out wheels or any broken parts to prevent further damage and ensure safety during use. 5. **Storage**: Store the dolly in a dry, cool place to prevent rust and material degradation. Avoid leaving it outdoors or in damp environments. If possible, hang the dolly on a wall hook to save space and prevent damage to the wheels. 6. **Weight Limit**: Always adhere to the manufacturer's weight limit to avoid overloading, which can lead to structural damage. 7. **Usage**: Use the dolly on smooth surfaces to prolong the life of the wheels. Avoid rough or uneven terrain that can cause unnecessary wear. 8. **Protective Measures**: Consider using protective covers or padding on the dolly to prevent scratches and damage to both the dolly and the items being transported. By following these maintenance and storage practices, you can extend the lifespan of your furniture dolly and ensure it remains in good working condition.