How to Move Appliances: Refrigerators, Washers, and More

Large appliances — refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, dishwashers, ranges — are heavy, awkward, and surprisingly easy to damage during a move if not handled correctly. Preparation is everything. For refrigerators, defrost completely 24–48 hours before moving day. Leave the doors open overnight after defrosting to dry out the interior and prevent mold. Clean the inside thoroughly, remove all shelves and drawers (pack them separately with padding to prevent cracking), and tape the power cord to the back of the unit. Turn the refrigerator's adjustable feet up so it sits as low as possible before moving — this lowers the center of gravity. Refrigerators must always be transported upright; laying them on their sides can cause compressor oil to migrate into the cooling lines and damage the unit permanently.

Washing machines require special attention because of the drum. Before moving, install shipping bolts or drum braces — these are the same bolts that came with the machine when new. They lock the drum in place and prevent it from swinging and cracking the tub or damaging internal components during transport. If you have lost the original bolts, the manufacturer's website or a hardware store can usually help you source the right size. Disconnect the water supply hoses, drain any residual water by running a spin cycle or tilting the machine briefly, and cap the hose connections. For dryers, disconnect the dryer vent hose and seal both ends, and for gas dryers, have a licensed technician disconnect the gas line — never attempt this yourself.

Dishwashers and ranges each have their own quirks. Dishwashers need to be disconnected from water supply and drain lines and secured with the door latch taped shut. Ranges — especially gas ranges — should be disconnected by a professional and the gas valve fully closed. Electric ranges simply need to be unplugged, but make sure the cord is long enough to reach the new outlet configuration, and check whether your new home has the same 240V outlet your range requires. Coil burners and grates should be wrapped individually to prevent scratching and stored in labeled bags.

On moving day, appliances need proper equipment: a heavy-duty appliance dolly (different from a standard furniture dolly), moving straps, and floor protection. The team at Boston Best Rate Movers uses appliance dollies rated for up to 800 lbs and reinforced moving straps to keep refrigerators and washers upright and secured while navigating stairs or tight hallways. One mistake many DIY movers make is underestimating how difficult it is to get a 300-pound refrigerator around a 90-degree turn in a narrow hallway. Professional movers have the technique — tip, pivot, and angle — to do this without gouging walls or tipping the appliance. Always measure doorway widths and appliance dimensions before moving day to confirm everything actually fits.