How to Move a Washer and Dryer

Moving a washer and dryer can be difficult, which is why many homeowners prefer to hire professional movers rather than do it themselves. Full-service moving teams not only have experience with heavy appliances, but the proper tools to lift, load, and transport your belongings. However, with the right equipment and preparation, most homeowners can handle things safely on their own. For those who prefer the DIY approach, here is a step-by-step guide on how to move a washer and dryer.

Gather Your Supplies

Before you begin, you’ll need a few tools. Most can be purchased at Home Depot, Lowe’s, or your local hardware store.

• Work Gloves
• Adjustable Wrench or Slip Joint Pliers
• Small Bowl or Bucket
• Rags
• Hand Truck or Appliance Dolly
• Foam or Cardboard Cutouts
• Moving Blankets
• Plastic Wrap
• Moving Straps
• Level

Depending on your strength, nylon lifting straps can be used instead of a dolly. Keep in mind that a small washer or dryer still weighs around 180 pounds, while a big one can weigh up to 400. Never try to move them by yourself. Always have at least one person to help you. If you’re moving them down a flight of stairs, it’s a good idea to ask two or even three people to lend a hand.

Prep Your Machines

Empty each unit completely. Then run a short wash cycle twenty-four hours before your move, to clean the drum and drain lines of your washing machine. Once it’s complete, leave the lid open to help the water inside evaporate. Next, wipe down the inside of the clothes dryer with soap and water. Dry it off with rags or paper towels, then clean and vacuum the lint trap. (On a front-loading dryer, the trap is located just inside the door. On top-loading machines, it’s normally in front of the controls.) If you can, vacuum out the ventilation hose as well, to remove as much debris as possible.

Plan Your Route

Measure your doorways and hallways, to ensure they’re wide enough to accommodate each unit. In many cases, the most direct route may not be the most practical. Move furniture and moving boxes off to the side, as well as anything that could be a potential tripping hazard.

Disconnect the Washer and Dryer

Unplug your washing machine and tape the electrical cord to the back. Then shut off the hot and cold water valves before unscrewing the inlet hoses behind the unit. (You may need to pull the unit away from the wall in order to get to them.) If the hoses are on tight, loosen them with a wrench. Then drain them before sealing them tightly in a plastic bag.

Next, detach the drain hose and empty it into a bucket or bowl. Drain hoses are secured to your washer with a metal catch that releases when squeezed. It’s strong. Use a set of pliers to remove it if you can’t get sufficient grip with your hands. Once it’s drained, seal it in a plastic bag as well, to catch any remaining water inside.

If you have an electric dryer, simply unplug the cord and tape it to the back of the unit. However, if you have a gas dryer, you’ll need to close the valve before disconnecting and capping the line. Capping the line improperly can cause a gas leak, so if you’re not comfortable working with this type of equipment, contact a licensed professional to shut off your gas service.

Finally, remove the ventilator hose from the back of the clothes dryer - the large, flexible pipe that vents dryer exhaust outside your home. It’s normally secured with a set of clamps that can be loosened and released. Dust the inside for lint then seal it in a plastic bag.

Stabilize the Drum

Every washing machine is equipped with an agitator, which powers the tub during the spin cycle in order to remove excess water from your clothes. However, because the tub is not tacked down, moving a washer can lead to lasting damage. To prevent this, most manufacturers include a set of shipping bolts to hold the drum in place. They’re normally installed inside the unit. Check the manual for their location.

Once you’ve found them, screwing them in is a straightforward procedure. If your machine doesn’t have shipping bolts, you’ll need to secure the tub with a few pieces of foam or cardboard instead. Wedge them on top of the tub (one of the left one on the right) to prevent it from shifting on the way to your new location.

Wrap Each Unit

Once the units are fully prepped, cover them in moving blankets to help protect them from dents and scratches. The blankets will protect your house as well, in case you accidentally bump something on the way out the door. Drape them over the top then secure them with a few layers of plastic wrap. Packing tape also works, but is less desirable because it might stick to the unit.

Load Them onto the Moving Truck

Washing machines and clothes dryers are too heavy to move by hand. Rent an appliance dolly from a moving company or a home improvement or hardware store. They’re not only sturdier, but their frame can be used to anchor heavy items. The best approach is to have one person tilt the unit forward, while the other person slides the dolly underneath. Always place the dolly against the back of the unit, especially if it’s a front-loading washer. Placing the full weight of the unit against a washer door might be enough to damage it.

After loading the unit onto the dolly, fasten it to the frame with a moving strap, making sure to cinch it tight. Then carefully wheel the unit out the door to the moving truck. The second person should walk ahead to help guide you around tight corners. Lifting a washer or dryer directly onto a truck is dangerous, so if you’re renting one, make sure it has a sturdy ramp or liftgate - a steel platform capable of raising and lowering oversized cargo.

Like other heavy appliances, clothes dryers and washing machines should be placed against the side of the truck and secured with a ratchet strap (if you’re renting a truck, you can normally request these from the service provider) to keep it from sliding around.

Reinstallation

Repeat the steps above, but in reverse. Load your washer and dryer back onto the dolly and wheel them into the garage, kitchen, or laundry room in your new home. Remove the plastic wrap and moving blankets. Reconnect the inlet hoses to the water supply. Reattach the drain hose and connect the gas line, if needed. Then remove the shipping bolts or foam boards from the washing machine and hook the ventilation hose up to the clothes dryer. Before inserting the plugs, place a level on top of each unit and adjust the feet as needed. Finally, plug in the washer and dryer and power them on.

Full-Service Movers

Allied moving specialists have been helping Americans since 1928. We make moving easy, with customized services tailored to your needs, budget, and schedule. Whether you need help moving a heavy appliance or packing up the rooms of your house, we have the tools, skills, and experience to handle it. Make your journey to your new home as easy as possible. Contact us today for a free quote!