When it comes to moving, appliances require special care and attention to guarantee their safe arrival at the intended destination. Whether you are relocating across town or to a different state, learning how to pack & move appliances will make your move much easier.
Pack and Move Techniques for Appliances
Proper packing and moving techniques for appliances are of utmost importance to ensure a smooth and successful relocation.
One risk of inadequate packing is the potential damage that appliances may sustain during transportation. Without proper packing techniques, appliances can easily be jostled around, resulting in scratches, dents, or damage either to the appliance or to the home is it being moved into or out of. This kind of damage can result in costly repairs or replacements.
Appliances often have various components that can become loose during transport, such as knobs, handles, or detachable parts. Failing to secure these properly can lead to accidents or injuries when unpacking or handling the appliances, especially if sharp or heavy parts are involved. [1]
Improper packing not only impacts the appliances’ condition but also can be a frustrating experience for the person moving the appliance. The delays and additional costs can significantly diminish the overall moving experience.
Tips for Packing and Moving Appliances
The following steps will help you pack and move appliances smoothly.
Assessing the Appliances
Create a list and describe the specific features and conditions of each appliance, which may include a refrigerator, dishwasher, washing machine, or dryer. When assessing, take note of each item’s dimensions, weight, and any special features.
By documenting this information, you can effectively plan and organize the transportation, ensuring that each appliance is handled with care. You can determine the necessary manpower needed for the move by knowing the weight of each appliance.
How to Pack Small Appliances
Packing appliances for moving can be an intimidating task. However, by following a step-by-step process and considering professional assistance, you can ensure a safe transition for your appliances. Here are some tips that can help you with the process:
- Disconnect and Clean the Appliances: Unplug and disconnect all appliances from their power source. Thoroughly clean them and ensure they are dry before packing. Remove any detachable parts, such as shelves or trays, and pack them separately.
- Gather Necessary Packing Supplies: Before you begin, make sure you have all the required packing supplies. This includes sturdy moving boxes, packing tape, and bubble wrap.
- Pack Appliances in Appropriate-Size Boxes: Carefully place the appliances into the appropriate-size moving boxes. Fill any empty spaces with additional packing material to minimize movement during transportation.
- Secure Fragile Parts: Wrap any fragile parts, such as glass doors or knobs, with bubble wrap or packing paper. Secure them in place with tape to prevent any damage and loss during transit.
- Specific Instructions for Each Appliance: Start by referring to the manufacturer's manual for specific instructions on how to prepare each appliance for transportation. This will help you understand any special considerations or precautions required. Searching for the manual online can also help with the reassembly of parts after the move.
How to Safely Move Large Appliances
Moving large appliances can be a challenging task, but with the right preparations, it can be done safely. Here are the steps to ensure a smooth process while moving large appliances:
- Prepare the Appliances: Clean and dry the appliances thoroughly to avoid mold or mildew during transportation. Empty and defrost refrigerators and freezers to prevent water leakage.
- Consider Professional Assistance: Moving large appliances can be physically demanding, and additional help may be needed. Consider hiring professional movers who have the experience and equipment required for safe transportation.
- Secure the Appliances: Use packing tape to secure any detachable parts. Wrap fragile components with bubble wrap or moving blankets for added protection. Ensure doors and handles are well-secured. Use straps to keep appliances stable within the moving vehicle.
- Use Moving Blankets and Padding: Place moving blankets or padding around large appliances to provide cushioning and protection. Secure the padding with packing tape to ensure it stays in place.
- Lift with Proper Technique: When lifting heavy appliances, ensure to use proper lifting techniques. Bend your knees and lift with your legs, not your back. If necessary, use moving equipment like dollies or sliders to minimize strain.
If you need professional help to pack and move your appliances whether small or large, contact Matt’s Moving today to obtain a quote.
FAQs
Secure the plug to the stove's back using tape, keep the oven door shut with a strap or bungee cord, and wrap stainless steel finishes with a protectant and blanket or heavy-duty plastic for protection.
Clean your dishwasher by running an empty wash cycle, leave the door open for 48 hours to allow drying, disconnect the water, and wrap and pack hoses separately.
Remove and wrap the glass tray, coil and tape the electrical cord to the back, and pack the microwave in a well-padded box, possibly using moving pads for extra protection.
Sources:
[1] Wolfe, D. (2024, March 19). How To Pack Kitchen Items When Moving. Forbes Home. https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/moving-services/how-to-pack-kitchen-items/
