Tips for Moving a Refrigerator

Moving a refrigerator is one of those tasks that can quickly go from "I got this" to "I need help! You might think you can just slide it across the floor, but the reality is, that refrigerators are heavy, bulky, and can be tough to handle.

If you're moving into a new house, upgrading to a new fridge, or just rearranging your kitchen, it’s important to know the right steps. You can move your fridge without breaking anything with the right tools and a little preparation.

Let’s walk you through everything you need to know, from preparation to execution. So, if you're looking for the best way to move a refrigerator, keep reading!

Best Tips to Move a Refrigerator

1. Get Ready with the Right Preparation

Before you start moving a refrigerator, it's important to be well-prepared. Jumping into the process without the right steps can cause unnecessary stress or damage. Here are the steps to ensure a smooth move:

• Empty the Fridge

  Start by taking everything out of your refrigerator. You don’t want food or drinks shifting around and potentially spilling while you’re moving it. Also, removing everything will make the fridge much lighter, which will help you when it's time to lift it.

  You can transfer your perishable items into coolers for the time being. Don't forget to remove any shelves, trays, or drawers inside the fridge. This prevents them from shifting and possibly breaking during the move.

• Defrost the Freezer

  If your refrigerator has a freezer compartment, it’s best to defrost it beforehand. This prevents water from leaking all over the floor once the ice melts. To defrost, unplug the refrigerator and leave the door open for a few hours. Be sure to place towels or a shallow pan underneath to catch the melting ice.

• Disconnect the Refrigerator

  Unplugging the refrigerator is an obvious but essential step. If your fridge has a water line for an ice maker or water dispenser, make sure to turn off the water supply and disconnect the line. This will prevent leaks and any potential mess during the move.

• Measure Your Path

  You may think your doorways are wide enough, but measuring ahead of time will save you headaches later. Measure the height, width, and depth of both the refrigerator and the doorways you need to move it through. If you find the fridge is too large to fit, you might need to remove its doors or the door frame itself.

2. Gather the Right Tools

Using the right tools makes moving a refrigerator much easier. You will need the following:

• Dolly or Appliance Cart: This is one of the best ways to move a refrigerator safely. A dolly or appliance cart helps move heavy and bulky items, like refrigerators, with ease. Ensure that it has sturdy straps or supports to hold the fridge in place.
• Moving Blankets: Protect your refrigerator from scratches, dents, and other damage by wrapping it in moving blankets or pads. These will also protect your floors and walls while you move the fridge through your house.
• Straps or Rope: You'll need these to secure the refrigerator to the dolly or cart. This helps prevent it from tipping over or shifting during the move.
• Gloves: Moving a refrigerator can be hard on your hands, so be sure to wear thick gloves to protect your skin.
• Tape or Plastic Wrap: Use this to secure the refrigerator doors shut during the move, so they don’t swing open and cause damage.

3. How to Move a Refrigerator? Step-by-Step Process

Alright, now that you're ready and have everything in place, it’s time to tackle the big move! Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Secure the Refrigerator on the Dolly
It's time to lift the fridge onto the dolly or appliance cart once it's cleared of food and fully defrosted. Make sure it is standing upright and secure it with straps or ropes. This will ensure it doesn’t slide or tip over while you’re moving it. If possible, have someone help you with the lifting part. Refrigerators can be heavy, and you want to avoid any strain or injury.

Step 2: Lifting the Fridge
When lifting the refrigerator, always bend your knees, not your back! This is key to avoiding injury. Work with your moving partner to lift it carefully. If you’re moving the fridge across a floor, use the dolly to help you move it through your home. Always keep the refrigerator in an upright position, this is essential for maintaining the integrity of the compressor and other internal components.

Let Van Lines Move take the load off your shoulder!

Step 3: Navigating Narrow Areas and Doorways When moving a refrigerator, you’ll likely come across narrow corners or doorways. If the fridge doesn't fit through a smaller space, you may need to tilt it slightly but don’t tilt it too far. A gentle tilt will help you move the fridge through these areas without damaging it. If the fridge still doesn’t fit, you might need to remove its doors or even adjust the door frame.

4. Transporting the Refrigerator

Once the fridge is outside your house, you’ll need to load it onto the moving vehicle. This part is essential to ensure that the fridge doesn’t get damaged during transportation.

The best way to move a refrigerator long distances is by using a moving truck. Make sure the fridge stays upright and is securely tied inside the truck. Placing it on its side could harm the internal parts. Use tie-downs or straps to secure the fridge and prevent it from shifting during transit. Also, ensure that the fridge is not touching anything that could scratch or dent it.

Helpful Advice: When it comes to moving your refrigerator, there’s no need to tackle it alone. Van Lines Move is here to handle all the heavy lifting with ease. Our team has the experience and equipment to ensure your refrigerator is transported safely, without any damage. From securing it properly in a truck to making sure it fits through narrow doorways, we’ve got it covered.

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When to Hire a Refrigerator Moving Company?

Sometimes, moving a refrigerator can be more complicated than anticipated. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the task, or if the fridge is particularly large, heavy, or tricky to move, it may be worth considering professional moving services. Moving a fridge involves more than just physical strength; it requires the right equipment and expertise to avoid damaging anything.

A refrigerator moving company has the experience to handle these types of moves safely, especially when dealing with tight spaces, narrow doorways, or stairs. Additionally, professionals are skilled at securing the fridge properly in a truck to prevent damage during transit.

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When moving a refrigerator, the right preparation before moving is key. Start by preparing the fridge, using the right equipment, and getting help if needed. If you're moving it yourself or choosing to hire professionals, taking your time and being careful will help prevent harm.