Large appliances are among the heaviest and most awkward items in any home, and they also require the most preparation before moving day. Skipping these steps doesn't just risk damage to the appliance — it can flood your moving truck, damage your floors, or cause the kind of delay that throws off an entire move schedule. Do the prep work a few days early and your movers will thank you.
Refrigerator: Start 24 Hours Early
The refrigerator is the appliance that causes the most moving-day problems when homeowners don't prepare properly. At minimum, you need to empty it completely, defrost the freezer, and let it dry out for at least 24 hours before moving. A freezer with ice buildup or a refrigerator with residual moisture will leak in the truck — often onto other items.
Empty and clean the refrigerator 4–8 hours before moving day. · Defrost the freezer and soak up all meltwater with towels. · Remove and pack shelves and drawers separately — wrap them in paper or bubble wrap. · Tape the doors shut with painter's tape (not regular tape that leaves residue). · Leave the doors slightly ajar during transport if your mover recommends it, to prevent odor buildup.
· Do not reconnect a refrigerator for at least 4–8 hours after it's been upright in its new location — the compressor oil needs to settle.
Washer and Dryer: Disconnect and Stabilize
Washing machines have a drum that can shift and bang during transport, damaging the drum bearings. Most manufacturer manuals recommend installing shipping bolts before moving a washer — these are rods that lock the drum in place. If you no longer have them, replacement shipping bolts are available at appliance stores for most major brands and are worth the minimal cost.
Disconnect the washer's water supply lines and drain any residual water from the hose before moving day. For the dryer, disconnect the gas line (hire a professional if it's a gas dryer) or unplug the 240V cord and disconnect the vent hose. Wrap both appliances in moving blankets and secure them upright on the truck.
Washer: reinstall shipping bolts if available, disconnect water lines, drain hoses. · Dryer: disconnect vent hose, unplug electric or disconnect gas line professionally. · Clean lint trap and wipe drum before moving. · Secure power cords and hoses to the back of the appliance with zip ties or tape.
Stove and Dishwasher
For a gas stove, the gas line must be disconnected by a licensed plumber or gas technician before the movers arrive — this is non-negotiable for safety. Electric stoves simply unplug (though the 240V outlet requires the right cord). Remove all burner grates, knobs, and racks, wrap them separately, and clean the interior thoroughly before moving day.
Dishwashers need to be disconnected from the water supply and drain line and allowed to fully dry out. Most dishwashers are secured to the underside of the countertop with screws — your mover may need to remove these before sliding the unit out. Confirm this with your crew during the booking process so they bring the right tools.
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