When you are getting ready for a house relocation you will shortly notice that some of the toughest areas for packing and moving are the kitchen and the living room. This is because that is where your major appliances are and they need special care, special packing techniques and careful handling. If you have no experience, whatsoever, with moving such items it is best not to try any DIY. The stove may look tough and resilient, but it’s full of small parts which can break during the loading and transportation. However, moving companies do insist on the appliances being ready for loading into the truck, but they also offer professional service for an extra fee. Preparing appliances for a move is not a simple task and if you try it on your own it will take you long hours. If the appliance is not packed and carried right, some working units could be damaged. If you do need to deal with the appliances yourself, as you have some experience, here is an easy guide on doing so.
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When moving appliances it’s best to follow their manual, but if you don’t have it you can try contacting the dealer for any specific instructions on moving them. You could also find plenty of information online.
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You need to unplug the fridge about a day before the move. Empty the inside and clean it thoroughly. Wait for the freezer to defrost and clean there as well. The fridge should be fully dried before you start the move. Remove racks and shelves and tie or tape the door. It is best to wrap the fridge in stretch wrap and use moving blankets. Carefully move the fridge away from the wall, tilt it only slightly and put it on a big dolly. The fridge should always be in an upright position or the inside will get damaged. Don’t try the whole process on your own – get a few helping hands, especially if you need to negotiate stairs or an elevator on your way to the moving van.
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Next it’s time for the stove – first clean it properly and then remove the racks or fasten them. The gas should be turned off and the line disconnected. Be careful as gas lines are quite fragile. The small parts should be either taped down or packed in a separate box.
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When it comes to the dishwasher make sure the units are fully emptied and dry. Remove the racks/holder and pack them separately. The door should be closed and taped securely for the move. Again the same rule applies – don’t tilt the appliance much.
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For all the major appliances, don’t forget that you need to unplug the different units and then secure them to the back of the appliance with packing tape. This way you can keep all the cords and never mix them up.
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For all the appliances that you are moving, make sure you put enough padding around them, so they are protected inside the truck. All the lids and doors should be shut and taped.
Inside the moving truck the biggest furniture and appliances should be positioned at the furthest end of the truck, close to the cab. Place them in a way that they balance one another. Don’t put them too close, so they don’t scratch each other. You can cushion them with bags with clothing or linen placed in the voids.