Preparing and Moving Household Appliances

Moving to a new home can be stressful for both you and your movers, no matter the situation. Planning every aspect of the move carefully helps ensure its success. Moving furniture and boxes is already challenging, and large household appliances like a freezer, washer, dryer, dishwasher, or refrigerator can make it even more difficult.

Appliances are too big and awkward for one person to pick up and carry into a moving truck. Most likely, you are going to need a professional moving service for your appliances. Your moving company will handle transporting major appliances, but you typically need to prepare your household appliances beforehand. When speaking with your moving company representative, ask how to prepare your appliances for the move.

If you plan to prepare your appliances yourself, there are a few things you should handle ahead of time. Getting them ready properly helps prevent damage during the move and makes the job easier for your movers. These steps will help you get started and ensure your appliances are ready for a safe and smooth move.

What You Need to Prepare Kitchen Appliances for a Move

Make sure your appliances are cleaned and completely dry at least 24 hours before your move. This is particularly essential for long-distance moves, especially those involving cross-country travel. To ensure a safe and efficient move of kitchen appliances, it is essential to gather all the necessary tools before preparing and moving them. Here are the tools and supplies you will need:

Cleaning supplies: You'll need cleaning supplies, cloths or paper towels, and a scrub brush.

Screwdriver and a wrench: To make your appliances easier to transport, you might need to remove the doors or handles.

Straps and bungee cords: To prevent appliances from shifting while being transported in a truck, use straps and bungee cords to secure them.

Moving blankets: During transportation, moving blankets are used to prevent scratches and dents on bigger appliances like refrigerators, ovens, and dishwashers.

Owner's manual: Keep the owner's manual for each appliance close to hand in case you need it while unpacking or when setting up the appliances in your new house.

Appliance dollies vs. furniture dollies: A standard furniture dolly isn’t safe for heavy appliances. Use an appliance dolly instead. It includes a built-in strap and an edge-lip to keep the appliance steady. Rental prices usually range from $10 to $15 per day. These dollies are especially helpful for fridges and washers that weigh over 200 pounds. Using the wrong type increases the risk of tipping.

If you lost the owner's manual, you can download a digital copy from the manufacturer's website. The model number is usually on a label inside the door or on the back panel. Websites like ManualsLib or the manufacturer’s support page are also helpful.

Measurements Can Help You Prepare

Before moving, taking measurements in your new house will help the process go more smoothly and guarantee that your appliances fit correctly in the new spot. You may assess if you need to disassemble the appliances or if they will fit through the doors and hallways by measuring the dimensions of the doorways, hallways, and the area where the appliances will be put.

You can also assess whether you need specialized moving tools, like a hand truck or a dolly, by examining the dimensions of the appliances themselves. Before you move, take the time to measure your new house and your appliances to ensure a smooth move and avoid any unnecessary damage.

Professional Movers May be Required

Remember that some appliances, like a gas stove or a refrigerator with an ice maker, may need professional disassembly and reassembly while getting ready for moving your household appliances. It can be required in some circumstances to contract a professional local mover to handle the relocation of these appliances. To ensure that you properly disconnect any electrical or gas connections if you're moving yourself, carefully read the owner's manual for each appliance.

DIY vs. Professional Help: How to Decide

Use this guide to determine which appliances you can safely prepare on your own and which ones should be handled by professionals.

Most homeowners don’t realize that hiring a technician to disconnect a gas appliance can cost between $100 and $250 per unit. In contrast, preparing the appliance yourself usually costs only $20 to $50 in materials like cleaners, straps, and moving blankets. But doing the work yourself can void the appliance’s warranty or break local safety codes. Make sure to compare the lower cost of DIY prep with the possible expenses of repairs or legal issues.

Prepare The Floors

When moving appliances, preparing your floors is crucial to prevent damage to your flooring. If not moved carefully, large, bulky appliances like refrigerators, washers, and dryers can quickly damage, scuff, or dent your floors. Repairing these damages can be costly, so it's preferable to avoid them altogether than to have to deal with them after the relocation.

You can protect your flooring with a number of materials like cardboard, moving blankets, or plastic sheets. A path for moving appliances can be made out of inexpensive cardboard that has been flattened and taped together. The thick, sturdy material of moving blankets helps protect your floors from scratches and scrapes. Plastic wrap can be useful to prevent spills or water damage on your floors.

Refrigerator

The refrigerator should be unplugged at least 24 hours before the move. Leave the doors open to allow all moisture to evaporate. Disconnect the water line (if present) and ensure it is completely drained. Dispose of all perishable products. Once the freezer unit is defrosted, clean and dry all surfaces and removable containers. It will prevent mildew and odors. Ensure that all racks are removed to prevent them from shifting during transportation. When it arrives at its final destination, wait at least 24 hours before you use it.

Use moving blankets to wrap the refrigerator while you prepare it. Load the refrigerator carefully and vertically onto the moving dolly with the assistance of your movers or friends. Don't forget to secure it using straps or ropes.

Laying a refrigerator on its side is usually not recommended because compressor oil can flow into the coolant lines, which may cause cooling problems or damage the system. If you have no other option, lay the refrigerator on the side opposite the door hinges to avoid damaging the door seal or causing misalignment. Once it’s standing upright again, keep it unplugged for twice as long as it was on its side. This allows internal fluids, especially oil, to drain back into the compressor before turning it on.

Washer and Dryer

These units need special handling. Disconnect the units from the power source. Turn off the water supply for the washer and disconnect the hoses from their faucets. If you have a gas dryer, contact your local gas company for advice. Remove all hoses and pack them in a separate box. Do not let cords loose; tape them to the back.

Before the move, properly clean the washer and dryer both inside and out. This will help prevent the growth of mold or mildew during transit. For front-load washers, install shipping bolts or a washer drum stabilizer kit to protect the suspension system during transport.

The washing machine's drum should be secured to keep it from shifting while being transported. A strap can be used to hold the drum in position.

Front-load washers require drum locking bolts to be installed before a move to prevent damage to the internal suspension. These bolts are usually not required for top-load machines. Most brands include these bolts with the purchase of the washer. If they’re missing, replacements cost about $20 to $40 and must match the model exactly.

Dishwasher

Shut off all electric and water supplies, then disconnect and drain the waterline. To ensure the dishwasher is completely dry, run a short cycle without detergent or dishes. Unscrew the mounting brackets from the countertop. Remove the utensil holder and make sure all racks are empty.

To prevent scratches or other damage during transit, protect the dishwasher with bubble wrap or moving blankets.

Stove

If you have a gas stove, first of all, be careful. Ensure the gas is turned off before disconnecting the line. Since gas lines need special handling, you may want to contact your gas company for help. Usually, no general service is required for electric stoves. Clean the outer surface and detach all removable parts.

To avoid activity and damage during delivery, take the burners and racks off the stove and pack them individually in moving boxes. To keep the stove door closed during transportation, use tape or a strap.

Microwave

The glass plate and any other removable components should be taken out of the microwave and packed separately. To prevent scratches or other damage during a move, cover the microwave with bubble wrap or moving blankets. Lastly, place the microwave in a reliable box designed for moving.

How to Prepare Smart Appliances for a Move

Smart appliances, such as Wi-Fi-enabled refrigerators, voice-controlled ovens, and app-connected washers, require a few extra steps before a move. Start by disconnecting them from your home's Wi-Fi network and performing a factory reset. This helps protect your privacy and prevents connection problems later.

If the appliance uses a mobile app, check the manufacturer’s website for moving instructions. Brands like LG ThinQ and Samsung SmartThings often provide tips for safe transport.

Back up any custom settings, schedules, or user preferences to your account, if possible. Some appliances store energy-use data or family preferences, which you may want to restore after the move.

Remove any detachable modules, such as voice assistants or cameras, and pack them separately in padded boxes. This keeps both the equipment and your data safe during the move.

Securing and Transporting Fragile Glass Surfaces

Before packing, properly clean and dry the glass surfaces. Remove glass components and wrap them individually in bubble wrap or packing paper if possible. Reinforce appliances with glass components that cannot be removed by using soft coverings, such as blankets or foam cushions. Fill any empty spaces with cushioning materials and use sturdy, double-walled boxes that are suited for fragile items. Label the boxes clearly as "Fragile" or "Handle with Care."

Secure the appliance when loading it into the moving vehicle to prevent it from sliding. You may reduce the probability of damage to appliances with fragile glass surfaces and ensure a smooth move by following these steps.

Pre-Move Appliance Prep Checklist

Here's a quick checklist to help you prepare your appliances for transport, avoiding common mistakes that even professionals sometimes overlook.

1. Read the Manufacturer’s Instructions: Brands like Miele and Sub-Zero include specific transport guidelines. Ignoring them may void the warranty.

2. Clean and Dry 24 Hours Ahead: Trapped moisture, especially in front-load washers with rubber seals, can cause mold during transport.

3. Defrost Freezer Units: Even auto-defrost models require defrosting. Ice buildup can block vents and damage parts during the move.

4. Hire a Technician for Disconnections: Have a licensed technician disconnect gas dryers or refrigerators with ice makers to avoid leaks or damage.

5. Remove or Secure Loose Parts: Take out trays, glass panels, and other loose parts. Use painter’s tape to attach manuals and small items to the appliance’s exterior.

6. Use Professional Moving Tools: Use neoprene sliders or ProGrip straps to protect floors and reduce injury risk. These tools are standard for many moving companies.

7. Protect Floors and Entryways: Masonite boards or carpet film are more effective than drop cloths in high-traffic areas.

8. Label and Bag All Accessories: Put cords, hoses, and manuals in labeled, clear resealable bags grouped by appliance type.

9. Double-Check Measurements with a Buffer: Add 2 inches to appliance specs to account for handles and rear parts when measuring doorways or halls.

Insider Tip: Store screws and hoses inside the appliance’s drum or interior compartment. Seal them in a bag with tape to keep the parts from getting lost during the move.

Proper Loading Techniques for Appliances

1. Prioritize upright positioning: Load your appliances upright whenever possible. This helps to keep the internal components aligned and in their right positions throughout transportation. Refrigerators, washing machines, and air conditioners, for example, require upright posture since they contain compressors or motors.

2. Secure appliances with straps or ropes: To prevent shifting and potential damage, secure the appliances in a standing position with straps or ropes. This adds stability and reduces the possibility of their turning over or clashing with other goods during transit. Make sure the straps are snug enough to keep the gadgets in place.

3. Use proper padding and protection: Use blankets, towels, or furniture pads to cushion the equipment and provide an extra layer of protection. During transportation, these soft materials absorb shocks and vibrations. Protect any fragile or delicate portions of the appliances, such as glass doors or control panels, by adding extra padding or wrapping them in bubble wrap.

4. Distribute weight evenly: When placing many appliances into a moving truck, distribute the weight evenly. Heavy appliances should be placed at the bottom, and lighter ones should be placed on top. This aids in maintaining balance and stability, reducing the likelihood of toppling or shifting during motion.

5. Secure loose components: Remove detachable parts from appliances, such as oven racks or dishwasher trays, and load them individually. Secure any loose components to keep them from sliding and damaging the appliance or other items in the truck.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Moving Appliances

1. Skipping a Test Run Before Moving: Always run appliances for 24 to 48 hours before disconnecting them. This helps you identify any existing problems that could otherwise be attributed to the move.

2. Forgetting to Take Photos Before Disconnection: Take pictures of wiring and water line setups before unplugging or unhooking appliances. This makes reassembly easier, especially for items like dishwashers or dryers with complicated connections.

3. Assuming All Moving Companies Handle All Appliances: Not all moving companies are licensed to move gas-powered or built-in appliances. Check what's included before you book.

4. Taping Doors Without Padding: Putting tape directly on appliance surfaces can leave sticky residue or peel off the finish. Use painter’s tape and place a soft cloth underneath the taped areas to protect the surface.

5. Not Checking Warranty Implications: Some brands void warranties if appliances are moved without an authorized technician. Review the warranty terms, especially for high-end brands like Sub-Zero or Wolf.

Which Appliances Are Most at Risk of Damage?

Not all appliances are equally at risk during transport. Front-load washers are sensitive to internal vibrations. Refrigerators with bottom freezers can become misaligned if they are laid down the wrong way. Gas ranges are the most dangerous to move because of their fuel connections.

If you’re hiring professionals, focus on handling these items with extra care:

• Front-load washers
• French-door refrigerators
• Gas-powered appliances
• Built-in or hardwired dishwashers

Safe Transportation of Gas Appliances

Gas appliances can be dangerous if not handled correctly. Before you disconnect anything, turn the gas valve clockwise to shut it off. Wait a few minutes, then ventilate the area by opening windows or doors.

Safety Warning: Only certified professionals should disconnect gas lines. Doing it yourself could lead to gas leaks or fires.

Check with your state’s Public Utilities Commission or visit the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) website for safety rules in your area.

After your move, use soapy water or a gas leak detector to check all gas line connections. If you see bubbles or smell gas, stop right away and call a licensed technician.

Industry Tip: According to the American Gas Association, homeowners should never attempt to reconnect flexible gas connectors on their own. These connectors typically need to be replaced, rather than reused.

Contact your utility companies at least 2 weeks before your moving day. If you are moving locally, you can transfer your services to your new home. If you are planning a long-distance move, you will likely need to disconnect your current services and set up new ones at your new residence. Make sure to have your gas, electric, and phone services active till the last day.

Some home insurance policies don’t cover damage that happens during a move. Check with your insurer to see if they offer temporary moving coverage or transit protection. Many moving companies offer appliance-specific protection plans that cover internal parts as well as external damage.

Disposing or Donating Old Appliances

If you're leaving an appliance behind, make sure to dispose of it responsibly. Many cities have bulk pickup days for large items, but schedules vary. Cities like Austin, TX, and San Jose, CA may require up to two weeks’ notice.

Some organizations accept working appliances, but each has its own rules. Habitat for Humanity ReStores usually accept refrigerators, stoves, and washers that are 10 years old or less. The Salvation Army may not accept appliances with damage or missing parts. Check with local nonprofits like Saint Vincent de Paul or the Vietnam Veterans of America. Some offer appliance pickup programs that help fund job training or housing for veterans.

If the appliance doesn't work, use the EPA’s Responsible Appliance Disposal (RAD) partner list. Certified recyclers like ARCA Recycling and JACO Environmental follow safe practices. These programs safely remove refrigerants and handle insulating foam, which can release harmful greenhouse gases if not disposed of correctly. Earth911.com can help you find nearby e-waste recyclers. Before scheduling a drop-off, check if the recycler is certified with R2 or e-Stewards.

Appliances with minor issues, such as broken dials or leaks, can often be repaired or refurbished. Groups like Freecycle and Buy Nothing connect people who want to give away items with others who can use them. Some small repair shops take these appliances for parts or restoration. This helps reduce waste and supports local reuse efforts.

Is It Worth Moving or Selling Your Appliance?

Before you spend time or money preparing appliances for a move, check their age, condition, and resale value. A 9-year-old dishwasher might cost $150 to $200 to disconnect and move, but may sell for less than $50 on Facebook Marketplace.

Use tools like the Home Depot Appliance Trade-In program or local resale sites to figure out how much the item is worth. If it costs more to move the appliance than to replace it, try selling or donating it before your move and buy a new one afterward.

Challenges, Considerations, and Requirements

Moving appliances requires meticulous planning and consideration. It helps to understand the legal requirements. To prevent legal complications, conduct thorough research and adhere to relevant regulations. Moving appliances entails inherent dangers, such as injury from lifting large items or incorrectly managing electrical and gas connections. Take precautions to reduce the hazards. Proper planning is essential for minimizing damage and ensuring functionality at the new location. Inadequate fastening or protection can lead to broken parts or unusable gadgets. Spend time and effort on adequate preparation to protect your appliances and extend their lifespan.

You can take the essential precautions to protect your appliances when transporting by following these moving tips and instructions provided for each individual equipment. It's also critical to stay away of typical mistakes like failing to measure doorways or protect floors and to use the right tools, like straps or dollies. Not only will taking the time to prepare your appliances for a move protect them, but it will also give you peace of mind knowing that your priceless items are in competent hands.

Warning Signs of Internal Damage After a Move

1. The appliance doesn't turn on even after it has been set up correctly.
2. The appliance makes unusual noises or shakes while in operation.
3. Water leaks from hidden cracks or loose connections.
4. You smell something burning or the circuit breaker trips after plugging it in.

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