Imagine this: You’ve packed up the last of the boxes, the movers are scheduled, and you’re feeling pretty confident — until you glance at the kitchen and see your refrigerator. Moving a fridge might seem like the final boss in the game of relocation. With its hefty weight, bulky size, and fragile components, it's no wonder many dread the task. But don’t worry — whether you're rolling up your sleeves to tackle it yourself or calling in the pros, moving a refrigerator doesn't have to be an epic struggle.
In this guide, we'll take you through every step, offering expert tips on how to move the fridge smoothly and safely, while keeping both your appliance and home in pristine condition. Ready to make this move a breeze? Let’s dive in.
Before you begin the physical process of moving your refrigerator, it’s essential to get ready and properly prepare the appliance. Following these steps will help protect the unit from damage and make moving it easier.
The first step in preparing your fridge for a move is to clear it out completely. Remove all food, beverages, and other items from both the refrigerator and freezer. Dispose of perishables that won’t survive the move or consider donating items to a local food bank. For a deep freezer, emptying the contents is crucial to prevent leaks or food spoilage during transport.
Some of you may wonder “Do I need to unplug the refrigerator?”. The answer is “Yes” — unplug the refrigerator at least 24 hours before moving to allow time for the freezer to defrost. Unplugging the refrigerator before moving prevents electrical issues and ensures any ice buildup melts before you transport the fridge. Be sure to place towels around the base of the refrigerator to absorb water from the melting ice.
If your refrigerator has a water dispenser or ice maker, don’t forget to disconnect the water line from the back of the fridge. This will prevent leaks during the move. Be sure to dry and tape down the loose ends of the water line to avoid damage during transport.
After the unit has been unplugged and defrosted, secure all the doors, drawers, and shelves. Use packing tape or bungee cords to keep the doors tightly shut during the move. You can also remove shelves and drawers to transport them separately, which will reduce the risk of breakage.
Before moving your fridge, take the time to clean both the interior and exterior surfaces. This will prevent any odors or stains from setting in while the appliance is out of use. Wipe down all surfaces with a mild cleaning solution, then allow them to air dry.
Read more: How to Move Appliances Safely and Efficiently.
To transport your refrigerator safely, gather the proper equipment, including:
Once your fridge is prepped and ready to go, it’s time to move the refrigerator. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to move a fridge out of your home and transport it to a new location.
Using a dolly is the easiest and safest method for moving a heavy refrigerator. Here’s how to move the fridge with a dolly:
Read more: How Do Moving Companies Estimate Weight?
If you need to move the fridge upstairs or downstairs, you’ll need to exercise extra caution:
Once the fridge is out of the house, it’s time to load it into the truck or trailer. Follow these steps for lifting and securing before moving a fridge in a truck:
Remember: never transport a fridge on its side or back, as this can cause irreparable damage.
If you don’t have access to a dolly, it’s still possible to move a fridge by using lifting straps or sliding the fridge on a thick blanket across the floor. However, this method is much more labor-intensive and should only be attempted with a team of people. The best way to move a fridge without a dolly is to plan carefully and enlist plenty of help to avoid injury.
If you don’t have help or a professional moving service, here’s how to move a refrigerator by yourself.
Use Lifting StrapsLifting straps are a game-changer when it comes to moving heavy stuff like refrigerators. They help spread out the weight, making it easier to carry and saving your back in the process. Just be sure you’re using the straps the right way to avoid any unwanted injuries.
Slide the Refrigerator on a BlanketIf you’ve got smooth floors, try sliding the fridge on a thick blanket or towel. It’ll reduce friction and protect your floors from scratches. This trick works great for short moves, but be careful and make sure the fridge doesn’t tip over.
Take Your TimeMoving a fridge isn’t a race! If you’re doing it solo, pace yourself. If you’re moving the fridge alone, take plenty of breaks and don’t rush the process. Fridge moving tips suggest planning ahead and giving yourself ample time to complete the move safely.
If you’re moving the fridge a long distance, using a truck or trailer is essential. Here’s how to properly transport the fridge.
To transport a fridge in a pickup truck, position the fridge upright in the bed of the truck. Use moving straps to secure it in place, ensuring it cannot tip over during the drive. If the fridge is too tall to stand upright in the truck, consider using a larger moving vehicle.
When using a trailer, place the fridge in the center of the trailer and secure it with straps. Ensure the trailer is level, and drive slowly to avoid jolts or bumps that could damage the fridge.
Can You Move a Refrigerator on Its Side? While it’s possible to move a fridge on its side for short distances, it’s not recommended. Transporting refrigerators on their side can cause oil from the compressor to leak into the cooling tubes, which can result in costly repairs. If you must tilt the fridge, keep it at no more than a 45-degree angle. After, let it sit upright for several hours before plugging it in at your new location to allow the oil to return to the compressor.
When unloading the fridge at its new location, use a ramp or dolly to move it off the truck safely. Follow the same steps you used to load the fridge, being careful to navigate any stairs or tight spaces with caution.
Once the refrigerator arrives at its new location, follow these tips to set up and run again the
Congrats! Your fridge made it to its new home. But before you rush to plug in the ridge after moving, there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure it runs smoothly. First off, give it some time to rest — 4 to 24 hours is usually recommended. Why? Well, during transport, the oil inside the compressor can shift around, and letting it sit upright gives that oil a chance to settle back where it belongs. Skipping this step could cause problems when you turn it on.
Once the waiting period is over, go ahead and plug it in, but don’t start loading it with food right away. Give it time to reach the right temperature—this can take a few hours. While you’re at it, double-check that everything is hooked up properly, especially if your fridge has a water line or ice maker. Make sure the water line is reconnected and that the ice maker is doing its job. By taking a little extra time here, you’ll help ensure your refrigerator works like a charm in its new home!
Moving a refrigerator requires careful planning, the right equipment, and plenty of patience. By following this guide, you can ensure that your fridge is transported safely and efficiently, whether you’re moving across town or across the country. If you’re unsure about how to lift a refrigerator or how to transport a refrigerator in a truck, consider hiring professional labor to handle the heavy lifting for you. That’s where Move4U comes in.
As experts in moving heavy and delicate appliances like refrigerators, Move4U ensures your fridge is handled with care from start to finish. Whether you’re moving locally or long-distance, their trained professionals will make sure your refrigerator arrives safely and in perfect condition, saving you time, effort, and peace of mind.
Remember, the best way to move a fridge is to keep it upright, secure it properly during transport, and take your time with the process. Good luck with your move!
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