Relocating a washer can be a challenging task, especially if you have no idea how to properly do it – but we got you covered. If you wish to know how to move a washing machine damage-free, all you need to do is go through our simple guide. We’ll cover all the steps you need to take, so both you and your washer arrive at your new home safely.
A washer is one of the most complicated household items to move - but we'll show you how to do it right
After cleaning the washer, make sure it’s disconnected from its power source and water supply. Once it’s disconnected, empty the water supply, drain the hoses, and let them dry. After that, install the transit bolts and use a dolly or other tools to carefully move the washer. While you may need some help with this step in order to avoid injuries, make sure that everyone involved is focused and aware of what they are doing at all times.
Things You Should Know Before Figuring Out How to Move a Washing Machine
Relocating large items by yourself could be hard, especially when the item demands a lot of preparation before the packing process starts. If you don’t want to get packing services and let experienced packers deal with your belongings, the task of transferring your washer could prove to be very difficult for a number of reasons. Here are some of them:
- Washers are heavy – the weight of a washing machine ranges from 150 to 200 pounds on average,
- They are bulky – washers are not only heavy but large too. If you plan on moving a front-load washer, know that its standard dimensions are around 23.5″ x 33.5″.
- They need to be properly prepared – relocating a washer demands more work than simply unplugging and loading it into a truck.
Therefore, the easiest way to move a washer when relocating to a new city is to get help from reputable and skilled cross-country movers – they are able to get the job done faster and more securely than you could manage on your own. Still, if you want to do it on your own, the following guide will provide you with every answer you’ll need on how to move a washing machine by yourself.
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When Moving a Washer, Start by Gathering All the Necessary Materials
What packing materials are required to transport a washer? First of all, in order to protect this appliance properly, you’ll need suitable covers, so it’s a good idea to purchase relocation blankets (they are a good solution for relocation furniture and other large items as well). Make sure there are four padded blankets in advance for this purpose. In addition, you’ll also need tape to secure the blankets and rope or relocation straps to secure and immobilize the washer once it’s in the truck.
Massive as they are, washers are also hard to carry – you won’t be able to do it on your own. For this reason, you’ll need to get a relocating dolly. It can help you quickly and safely move the heavy object out of your existing residence, place it onto the relocation truck, and then move it to a new home. You might decide to invest in a dolly since it can be quite helpful even after the move, or simply rent it.
In addition to packing materials, there are other supplies that must be on your moving-out list. Don’t forget to find a set of pliers and a tiny bucket or something comparable to collect the water when the washer is being drained.
Other Things to Do Before Moving a Washing Machine
If you wonder how to move a washing machine, know that it can’t be done without locating the transit bolts. These metal rods are placed inside the appliance to secure the drum and keep it immobile while being transported. Note that the drum suspension system of your washing machine can easily be damaged by road vibrations, thus, it cannot be transported without its transit bolts being inserted.
Before you start with the preparations, you should also locate your washer’s user manual. Even if you can use your washer without any issues, this manual will explain how to attach the transit bolts. It will also provide you with information about safety precautions that should be taken when transporting the appliances between residences. Even if you had thrown away the manual, you could still perform an online search – all you need is to know that washer’s brand and model.
A user manual can easily be found online
How to Prepare a Washing Machine for Moving?
Washers, whether front-load or top-load ones, require careful preparation. If you make a relocation mistake of not preparing it properly, not only can the washer itself get damaged, but it can cause damage to another of your belongings. So, which actions do you have to take before relocating a washer? Consider the following:
Cleaning and drying the drum
When planning a move to another city, cleaning a washer must be on your to-do list. To clean the drum properly, run a brief wash cycle using white vinegar and baking soda – this part of a move-out cleaning will help you remove all existing dirt and grime from the washer. Once the program is done, open the washer door and let the drum dry at room temperature for 24 hours. If you have a last-minute move and are short on time, you can also use a dry, clean cloth to soak any extra water that has accumulated on the washer drum.
Disconnecting the power and water supply
First of all, you must turn the power off before handling your household equipment in order to reduce the risk of electric shock. To disconnect the washer from the power network, simply unplug it from the wall outlet. After that is done, the next step is switching off the water supply. To turn off the water, locate the nearby water valve (usually placed behind the appliance), and turn it clockwise.
Draining the water supply hoses
Chances are, there will still be some water in the hoses that supply it, so the question is – how to drain a washing machine for moving? Use the slip-joint pliers to remove both cold and hot water supply hoses from the valve, then empty them into a bucket or other suitable container. If you have a washer model that heats the water inside of the appliance, you simply need to drain the cold water supply hose. Once they are removed and drained, use the pliers to disconnect the hoses from the washer as well. When it’s done, place the hoses in a box or plastic bag – and don’t forget to add relocation labels on them.
Emptying the drain hose
One drain hose from your washing machine should dump all the unclean water into the wastewater disposal canal. Disconnect the drain hose from the discharge point and securely fasten it to the back of your washer. Some washers have a bracket on the backside dedicated to holding the drain hose. However, even if yours does have one, make sure to attach the hose with additional tape to prevent tripping mishaps during the relocation day preparations.
Installing the Transit Bolts – The Most Important Part of the Pre-Packing Process
As mentioned earlier, the drum will be secured in place by transit bolts, which will prevent damage during transport. Your washing machine’s suspension system will most certainly become damaged without these metal rods, and fixing it can end up costing more than buying a new washer. If you wish to learn how to install these bolts, it’s best to consult your user manual when organizing your move.
However, you should be able to see two openings on the back of the washer, one for each bolt, regardless of the specific installation method. The rods should be gently inserted, then turned just enough to seal the drum in place. If you’re unsure how to put the transit bolts on your washer, ask the neighborhood appliance store for advice. In the meantime, take a look at the video below to see how this procedure might look:
How to Move a Washer Properly?
When relocating to a new state and wanting to keep your washer safe, first use a small amount of tape to keep the power line attached to the rear of your appliance. The last thing you would want while relocating is to trip over your washer’s cord. Then, it’s time to totally remove the appliance from its laying position at this point. To facilitate sliding without damaging the floor’s surface, place a slider beneath or, if you don’t have any furniture sliders, use any soft material you have by your side.
In the end, cover the appliance with furniture blankets and completely encircle it, covering all exposed surfaces. If you wonder how to pack a washing machine for moving cost-efficiently, know that regular household blankets can also work okay. Just make sure they are smooth enough to protect the surface of the washer rather than scratch it. You can use a rope, tape, or straps to keep blankets in place after the washer surface is completely covered.
If you wish to have a working washer after the move, do everything necessary to keep it protected
How to Move a Washing Machine With a Dolly?
Using a furniture or appliance dolly helps you not only to protect the flooring but also avoid injuries while relocating – not to mention it is the simplest method of relocating a washer. To place a dolly beneath the washer, have your two assistants tilt it backward. While the appliance is still on the ground, secure it using the dolly’s straps. Then, lean the dolly back until the washer is balanced on the wheels, and tighten the straps or rope once the washer is fully loaded.
Of course, if you decide to get basic long-distance moving services, transporting the washer will be the movers’ job. However, if you plan to move on your own, you must make an attempt to keep the appliance upright as you transport it away from the house. It can be dangerous to move a washer on its side since the washer drum could be harmed.
In the end, utilize the ramp when packing a relocation truck and loading the washer. Once inside, use rope or specialized straps to fasten it to the side of the van. In either case, the washer must remain immobilized during the transit to the new house.
Packing Service
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Learn moreAvoid Injuries – Get Help
If you are carrying your washer up or down stairs, be sure to use proper lifting techniques and take frequent breaks to avoid injuring yourself. Make sure to lift the appliance using your legs and not your back – this will prevent injury and help you avoid straining your muscles or joints in the process. Additionally, try to arrange for one or two helpers to assist with lifting the washer. This will allow you to get the job done more quickly and safely. Remember that enlisting the help of a friend or, better yet, long-distance movers can help ensure that your washer is safely moved to its new location.
If you want to move a washer (or any other large appliance or furniture) without any hassles, it is better to get the help of cross-country moving services. The relocation expert will pack and protect your washer in the best way possible so that no damage is caused to it during transit. When relocating to a new city, they will assist you with the start process and help you move efficiently – it can greatly reduce the amount of relocation stress you’ll have to go through.
Professionals are your safest bet when it comes to relocating any kind of household item
Hire a Long-Distance Moving Company and Gift Yourself With the Best Relocation Experience
Hiring movers is the best way to ensure a smooth and stress-free move. Not only are relocation companies experienced in relocating all kinds of items from one location to another, but they also have access to all the necessary resources and equipment needed for this type of move. So, be sure to take advantage of all these benefits by investing in the services of a reputable company – make your move easier right from the start.
