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Moving a refrigerator is a challenging task. Its size, weight, and delicate parts make it one of the trickiest household items to transport.
Whether you’re a homeowner moving a fridge across the street or a business owner dealing with commercial refrigerators, knowing the right steps can prevent damage to your appliance—and your back!
In the blog, we will break down the process step by step, making it easier for you to move your fridge like a pro.
How to Move a Refrigerator
Before you haul your fridge out of its spot, prepare your appliance to make a safe move. To be on the safer side, you can also opt for professional packing services.
Here is the step-by-step guide for moving a heavy refrigerator:
Step 1: Empty the Refrigerator
First, remove all food and contents from the refrigerator and freezer compartments. Pack them in coolers to preserve them from spoiling during the move.
Step 2: Defrost and Clean
If your fridge has a freezer, defrost it at least a day before moving. This prevents leaks during transit.
Also, clean the insides thoroughly to avoid bad odors and mildew during the moving process.
Step 3: Disconnect Water and Power Lines
Unplug your refrigerator from the electrical outlet. If it’s connected to a water supply (for ice makers or water dispensers), turn off the water valve and disconnect the water line.
Step 4: Secure Loose Parts
Remove loose items like shelves, ice trays, and drawers. Use packing tape or bubble wrap to secure the doors.
Don’t avoid this step to prevent your refrigerator from unwanted dents or accidental openings during transit.
Step 5: Measure the doorways and hallways
Before moving your refrigerator, measure its height, width, and depth, then compare these dimensions to the doorways, hallways, and spaces it will pass through- so that it doesn’t get stuck while moving.
If your fridge is too large, check the appliance manual for instructions on how to remove the fridge doors.
Step 6: Cover Your Floor
Place furniture sliders or cardboard under the fridge to avoid damaging hardwood or tiled floors while moving.
You can also use a dolly with soft rubber wheels to minimize scratches or dents on delicate surfaces.
➡️5 Tips for Moving Your Appliances
What are the Tools Required for Moving a Refrigerator?
Unlike other home appliances, refrigerators need assistance and tools to make the moving process safe and smooth.
Here’s what you’ll need:
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Moving Dolly
A heavy-duty dolly is a must for moving large appliances like heavy refrigerators. It will help you transport the fridge without any injury risks.
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Moving Straps
Straps allow you to secure the refrigerator to the dolly and keep it upright and safe during transport.
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Furniture Sliders
These are useful for sliding the fridge across a hard surface or floor without scratching it.
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Blankets and Tape
Wrap the refrigerator in moving blankets to protect it from dents and scratches. Use tape to hold the padding or blankets in place.
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Bungee Cords or Ropes
If you’re moving the fridge in a pickup truck, use bungee cords or ropes to secure it from tipping over.
Now that you know how to prep your fridge (and yourself) for moving, let’s discuss your options for moving it like a pro.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Move a Refrigerator in a Pickup Truck?
Step 1. Tilt and Lift the Fridge
Use a moving dolly and carefully tilt the refrigerator slightly backward. Ask for help or hire moving labor to lift the fridge onto the dolly; make sure it stays upright.
Step 2. Navigate Through the House
Carefully guide the refrigerator out of the house. Be mindful of tight spaces or stairs to avoid scratches and dents.
You can also use furniture sliders for difficult or narrow spaces.
Step 3. Load the Refrigerator onto the Pickup Truck
Position the dolly close to the back of the truck. Lift the refrigerator carefully, ensuring that it stays upright. If you’re working alone, consider using a truck ramp.
Step 4. Secure the Refrigerator
Once loaded, use bungee cords or reliable ropes to secure the refrigerator.
Make sure it is tightly fastened, or else it might move or tip over during the drive.
Step 5. Drive Carefully
Avoid rough roads and sharp turns that could cause the refrigerator to shift.
💡Keeping the fridge upright is crucial to avoid damaging the internal compressor. Even if you’re moving it a short distance, always ensure the refrigerator stays vertical.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long should you wait before plugging in the refrigerator after moving?
It’s recommended to wait 3 to 4 hours before plugging in the refrigerator after moving, especially if it was transported on its side. This allows any oil that may have leaked from the compressor to settle back into place.
Can you transport a refrigerator on its side?
It’s generally not advised to lay a refrigerator down while moving. Doing so can damage the compressor and refrigerant lines. If it’s unavoidable, keep it upright as soon as possible and let it sit for several hours before plugging it in.
How much does it cost to hire movers for a refrigerator?
For residential refrigerators, costs typically range from $100 to $300 for local moves. Long-distance moves and heavy commercial refrigerators may cost more based on size, weight, and distance.
How do you move a heavy commercial refrigerator?
Moving a commercial refrigerator is an even larger challenge due to the size and complexity of the unit. Here’s how to manage the process:
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Disassembly may be required
Commercial fridges are typically bigger and heavier, so partial disassembly may be necessary. Experts suggest hiring professionals for this step since the unit might be connected to multiple systems.
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Forklifts or heavy-duty dollies
Use professional-grade equipment such as forklifts or industrial dollies to move commercial refrigerators safely.
Hiring professional movers experienced in moving commercial appliances is highly recommended for businesses to avoid potential damage or downtime.
Moving a fridge isn’t as hard as it seems—take your time, plan, and use the right tools. A little preparation goes a long way in keeping your appliance, floors, and yourself safe!
