When you start to plan a move, you think about all the boxes you’ll have. Then you realize that there are a host of appliances to take with you, too.
Some are small and need careful placement. Others are large and difficult to move.
It’s not impossible, but it takes preparation. Here are some tips to help you avoid damage.
Schedule Service to Prepare Appliances
If you don’t know how to prepare appliances before moving, you may want to hire a professional to do it for you. Small appliances are easy since, with most, all you need to do is unplug them and put them in a box.
Large appliances, like your fridge, take a little more care. You’ll need to unplug them, let them defrost, and clean them out. If you have a gas range, you’ll probably want a pro to disconnect the fuel line and make sure it’s ready for travel.
Research Moving Requirements
While you’re getting ready to move, it’s wise to track down all those user manuals or find them online. In the manual, you may find information about the best way to transport the appliance.
It’s too easy to skip this step, but you may regret it. For example, you can’t store a refrigerator or freezer sideways. You might ruin it if you do.
Think of it as an investment in the appliance. The effort to move it makes it worth knowing how.
Measure Halls and Doorways
Think about how you’ll get the appliances out the door. Even if you’re hiring movers, it’s a good idea to measure hallways and doorways. Sometimes a large chest freezer won’t fit the way you want.
Don’t assume you’ll have an empty room to walk through, either. Movers might want to load the most oversized items first. You may need to clear a path.
If all else fails, consider taking doors or handles off to fit through the door. The manual may show you how to do it.
Use the Right Moving Equipment
You’ll need some equipment to move major appliances like a refrigerator or range. Unlike boxes, you can’t move these yourself without a few tools.
You may not need everything on this list, but it’s good to consider buying or renting:
- Appliance dolly
- Hand carts, especially one that can handle a few stairs
- Straps to keep the appliance in place
- Slides and guides to move an appliance across the floor
To reduce the risk of injury, try to avoid lifting anything without the proper support in place.
Hire a Professional for Help
Hiring moving professionals is one of the best ways to save yourself the hassle of the actual lifting. Although they won’t necessarily clean or disconnect your appliances, you can avoid the heavy lifting.
The best part is that movers have their own equipment for loading appliances. You can save money and your aching back.
Moving appliances is one of the most complex parts of the process, but you can make it easier. When you’re ready to schedule your move, ask us for a quote.
