How to Move Appliances Safely

Why Moving Appliances Requires Careful Planning

Major appliances — refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, dishwashers — are heavy, awkward, and expensive. Moving them incorrectly can damage the appliance, injure you or your helpers, and scratch or gouge floors and doorframes. With the right equipment and technique, however, moving appliances safely is entirely manageable without professional movers.

This guide covers everything you need to know: preparation, equipment, technique, and appliance-specific tips.

Equipment You'll Need

Heavy-Duty Appliance Hand Truck (Essential)

A standard hand truck won't cut it for refrigerators and washing machines. You need a heavy-duty appliance dolly rated for at least 300–400 lbs with a strap to secure the appliance during transport.

The LEEYOUNG Upgraded Folding Hand Truck Dolly (375lb capacity) is purpose-built for this job — aluminum construction keeps it light while the reinforced frame handles refrigerators and washing machines. It works on both indoor and outdoor surfaces and folds flat for easy storage when not in use. A one-time investment that replaces the need for professional movers on most appliance moves.

Moving Straps or Appliance Straps

Ratchet straps or appliance straps secure the appliance to the hand truck and prevent shifting during transport. Never move a large appliance on a dolly without securing it first.

Moving Blankets or Furniture Pads

Wrap appliances in moving blankets to protect the finish and prevent scratches to walls and doorframes during transit.

Floor Protection

Use plywood sheets or appliance sliders under the dolly wheels when moving across hardwood or tile floors to prevent scratching and gouging.

General Safety Rules

Never move a large appliance alone — always have at least one helper for refrigerators, washing machines, and dryers
Lift with your legs, not your back — keep your back straight and use leg strength when tilting appliances onto the dolly
Clear the path before you start — remove rugs, furniture, and obstacles from the entire route
Measure doorways and hallways in advance — confirm the appliance will fit through every opening before you start moving
Wear closed-toe shoes — steel-toed boots are ideal
Go slowly on stairs — one step at a time, with the helper supporting from below

How to Move a Refrigerator

Empty and defrost — remove all food and allow 24–48 hours for complete defrosting. Drain the water pan.
Disconnect water and power — turn off the ice maker water supply, disconnect the water line, and unplug the unit.
Secure loose parts — tape shelves and drawers in place or remove and pack them separately.
Wrap in moving blankets — protect the finish and corners.
Tilt and slide the dolly underneath — tilt the refrigerator slightly backward and slide the dolly plate under the base.
Secure with straps — strap the refrigerator firmly to the dolly before moving.
Transport upright — refrigerators should always be moved upright. If you must tilt, keep it at no more than 45 degrees and allow the refrigerator to stand upright for the same amount of time it was tilted before plugging in.

How to Move a Washing Machine

Run a spin cycle — remove as much water as possible from the drum.
Disconnect hoses and power — turn off water supply valves, disconnect inlet hoses, and drain the drain hose. Unplug the unit.
Install transit bolts if available — front-load washers have shipping bolts that stabilize the drum during transport. Check your manual.
Secure the drum door — tape it closed to prevent swinging.
Use the dolly — tilt, secure with straps, and move slowly.

How to Move a Dryer

Disconnect the power — unplug electric dryers; for gas dryers, turn off the gas supply and disconnect the gas line (if not comfortable with this, hire a professional).
Disconnect the vent hose — detach from the wall vent and the dryer.
Clean the lint trap — a good time to do this before the move.
Use the dolly — dryers are lighter than washers but still require a dolly for safe transport.

How to Move a Dishwasher

Run a short cycle and cancel mid-drain — or manually drain any standing water.
Turn off the water supply under the sink and disconnect the water inlet line.
Disconnect the drain hose from the sink drain or garbage disposal.
Unplug or disconnect the power — built-in dishwashers are typically hardwired; turn off the circuit breaker.
Remove mounting screws from the underside of the counter and slide the unit out carefully.

After the Move: What to Check

Allow refrigerators to stand upright for at least 2–4 hours before plugging in (longer if tilted during transport)
Check all hose connections for leaks before running the first cycle on washers and dishwashers
Verify the dryer vent is properly reconnected before use
Level all appliances using adjustable feet — an unlevel washing machine will vibrate excessively

Final Thoughts

Moving appliances safely comes down to the right equipment, a clear path, and a patient approach. A heavy-duty hand truck is the single most important tool — it makes the difference between a manageable move and a dangerous one. Take your time, follow the appliance-specific steps, and you'll get the job done without damage or injury.

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