Moving heavy appliances like fridges, washers, dryers, and stoves requires more than just strength. These machines are built to last, but they can easily get damaged if handled incorrectly. Preparing them properly before moving day saves time, prevents costly damage, and makes the move smoother for everyone involved. As a professional moving company in Edmonton, we have moved every type of appliance you can imagine. Over time, we’ve learned that a bit of preparation makes all the difference.
Start by Disconnecting Everything Safely
The first step in preparing any large appliance is disconnecting it from power, gas, or water lines. Doing this safely prevents both damage and potential hazards.
Unplug electric appliances a day or two before moving. This gives the unit time to cool down, especially for refrigerators and freezers. For gas stoves or dryers, always turn off the gas line before disconnecting the hose. If you are not familiar with handling gas connections, contact a licensed technician to disconnect it for you. A single wrong move can lead to leaks or dangerous pressure buildup.
For dishwashers and washing machines, disconnect the water supply and drain the lines completely. Leftover water can spill during the move, causing damage to floors, boxes, or even the appliance itself. Once everything is disconnected, keep all hoses, cords, and screws in labeled bags and tape them securely to the appliance so nothing goes missing.
Clean and Dry Every Surface
A clean appliance travels better and works better when it arrives. Food, grease, or detergent residue can shift during transport and cause odors or stains.
Empty refrigerators and freezers at least 24 hours before the move. Defrost them completely to avoid water leakage. Wipe the inside with a mild cleaning solution and leave the doors open to air out. This prevents mold and mildew during transit. For ovens, remove racks and wipe away grease buildup, as heat and grime can damage the interior if left unchecked.
Dishwashers, washing machines, and dryers should also be cleaned. Run a quick rinse or cleaning cycle, then wipe dry. Leave the doors open overnight so any remaining moisture evaporates. By the time you move, every appliance should be completely dry inside and out.
Secure Loose and Moving Parts
Appliances often contain parts that shift easily—shelves, drawers, trays, or internal drums. These need to be secured before loading.
Remove refrigerator shelves and tape drawers shut. Some people prefer to wrap shelves separately in bubble wrap to prevent breakage. In washing machines, lock the drum using transit bolts or stabilizer kits. If you no longer have the original bolts, ask the manufacturer or look up the model number online to find replacements. A loose drum can get seriously damaged during transport.
Oven racks, drip pans, and microwave plates should all be removed and packed separately. The idea is to prevent anything from rattling or sliding inside the appliance while it’s being moved. Once packed, close each door with strong moving tape, but don’t overdo it—tape should be firm enough to keep doors shut, but not so tight that it damages the finish.
Protect Surfaces with the Right Materials
Even when handled with care, appliances can scratch or dent easily. Protecting them properly is key to keeping them in perfect condition.
Wrap each appliance in thick moving blankets or padded covers. Avoid using thin plastic or simple sheets; they provide minimal protection. Secure the blankets with stretch wrap or moving straps to keep them in place. Pay attention to corners and handles, as these areas are most prone to scratches.
If the appliance has a glossy or stainless steel finish, consider adding an extra layer of bubble wrap before covering it with blankets. This prevents friction that can dull or mark the surface. Label each item “FRONT” or “HANDLE SIDE” to help movers position it correctly when loading.
Plan the Path Before Moving
Before moving day, measure your doorways, hallways, and staircases to make sure everything fits. Appliances often appear smaller in the kitchen than they are in reality. Knowing the exact measurements prevents surprises when trying to fit a fridge through a narrow door or turn a washer around a staircase landing.
If needed, remove doors or handrails temporarily to create more space. Plan the path from the room to the moving truck so it’s clear of obstacles. Keep floors dry and secure mats where possible to prevent slipping. It may seem simple, but small details like these prevent damage to both your home and your appliances.
Keep Upright When Transporting
Certain appliances, especially refrigerators and freezers, must stay upright during transport. Tilting them can cause compressor oil to leak into the cooling lines, which can lead to malfunction later.
When loading a fridge, always keep it standing. If it must be tilted slightly to fit through a door, let it rest upright for several hours before plugging it in again at the new location. This allows the oil to settle back into the compressor.
Washers and dryers can usually be transported at a slight angle, but avoid stacking them unless properly supported and strapped. For added safety, secure appliances against the truck wall using tie-down straps. They should not shift even when the truck turns or stops suddenly.
Use Proper Equipment
Large appliances can weigh hundreds of pounds, and lifting them incorrectly can cause serious injury or damage. Using the right tools makes all the difference.
An appliance dolly with straps is ideal for moving fridges, washers, and dryers. The straps help secure the load while the dolly provides leverage to handle the weight safely. If you’re moving multiple appliances, rent or buy protective corner guards and sliders to help guide the units across floors without scratching them.
Even when using a dolly, always lift with your legs, not your back, and never rush. Working slowly but steadily is safer and usually faster in the long run because there’s less risk of dropping or damaging the appliance.
Prepare the New Space Before Arrival
One of the most overlooked parts of moving large appliances is getting the new location ready. Doing a few checks before moving day saves time and frustration.
Measure the new space to ensure each appliance fits properly. Check that power outlets, water lines, and vents are easily accessible. For dryers, confirm whether the connection is electric or gas and prepare accordingly. If you’re moving into a new-build home, verify that the flooring and walls around the installation area are finished and dry.
It’s also a good time to clean the area before placing anything heavy there. Dust, construction debris, or leftover materials from renovation can affect how appliances sit or function. Once everything is ready, reconnect the appliances one at a time, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Leave Time for Appliances to Adjust
After moving, appliances need time to stabilize before being plugged in or used. Refrigerators, for example, should remain unplugged for at least four to six hours after transport if they were tilted at any point. This gives the oil and coolant inside the compressor time to settle.
Washers and dishwashers should be leveled properly before connecting water lines. Uneven placement can cause vibrations, noise, and even leaks. Once everything is leveled, reconnect hoses and run a short test cycle without any load. This helps ensure that the connections are secure and the unit operates correctly.
Taking a bit of extra time during setup can prevent serious mechanical problems later.
Know When to Ask for Help
While many parts of moving can be handled on your own, some appliances require professional assistance. Gas stoves and dryers, for example, should always be disconnected and reconnected by a certified technician.
If you’re unsure about how to move or prepare a specific appliance, or if your schedule is tight, you can rely on an experienced moving company in Edmonton that understands how to transport large household items safely and efficiently. It’s often more cost-effective to hire professionals than to risk damage or injury trying to move appliances alone.
If you need help organizing your move or want advice on preparing specific appliances, you can contact us for practical guidance. We’re happy to answer questions, even if you just need a bit of advice before moving day.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I unplug my fridge before moving?
At least 24 hours before moving. This allows it to defrost completely and ensures all water drains from the lines.
Can I lay my fridge on its side during the move?
It’s best to keep it upright. Laying it on its side can cause compressor oil to flow into the cooling lines, which may damage the unit when restarted.
What’s the easiest way to move a washing machine?
Use transit bolts to secure the drum, disconnect the water lines, and move it with an appliance dolly. Always keep it upright during transport.
Should I clean my oven before moving?
Yes. Cleaning your oven removes grease that could leak or smell during transport. It also keeps your new home cleaner when you reinstall it.
How soon can I use my washer or fridge after moving?
For washers, you can use them immediately after installation as long as connections are secure. For fridges, wait several hours before plugging them in to allow the oil to settle.
