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So you did all the research on the different models and manufacturers.  You compared the electronic gun safe to the biometric gun safe.  Maybe you even considered a fireproof or waterproof safe to protect your valuable collection.  Now that your gun safe is on order or you are going to pick it up, you need to make plans for installation.  Because many of these safes can weigh over 1000 pounds, improper planning could not only create catastrophic damage to your property, but could also be dangerous or even deadly.  Some of the stack on gun safe models can be close to 1500 pounds.

You should consult your owners manual prior to installation, but here are some other common installation tips:

• First off, please evaluate where this heavy monster is going to live.  Most newer homes will not have a problem supporting the weigh, but in an older home you may have issues.  Consult an engineer or contractor to evaluate your older home.  Ultimately, basements are the best location for these units so that most weight issues can be eliminated.
• Consider hiring a moving company to deliver and install the safe or pay the extra amount from the retailer to have them install it.  Some gun safe distributors actually include free shipping and installation when you buy it from them.  Even if it costs a little more, this may be a life (or back) saving decision.
• Never, never move the safe with the door open.  Most safe doors weigh 400-500 pounds and can easily hurt you or topple the rest of the safe of balance if it were to fly open during moving.  Plus, unless the owners manual recommends it, do not remove the door as it can be nearly impossible to reinstall properly and safely.  If you purchased a biometric gun safe, make sure to protect the locking mechanism when moving it.
• If the safe is to be installed in the basement, once the safe makes it to it permanent location, consider laying down some old carpet or a mat under it to provide a moisture barrier.

These are just some quick tips to make moving your new gun safe easier and safer.