How to Move a Washer and Dryer
Moving your washer and dryer is a process. Between gas lines, fragile parts, and heavyweight units, a lot can go wrong. But with the right prep, tools, and timing, you can move your appliances safely without damaging your home, floors, or back.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step of moving your washer and dryer, whether you’re heading across town or shifting them to a new room. We’ll also cover how to move stacked units, reconnect utilities, and decide when to call in the pros.
Quick-reference washer and dryer moving checklist
This checklist covers everything from prepping your washer and dryer to safely transporting them. Screenshot and keep it handy on your phone for moving day:
- Run a final spin/drain cycle
- Shut off electricity, water, and gas
- Drain hoses and pump filter, then dry drum for 24 hours
- Install shipping bolts or use a stabilizer kit
- Label and bundle cords, hoses, and vents
- Wrap each appliance and tape doors shut
- Slide a dolly under the base and strap tightly
- Protect walls, door frames, and stairs
- Keep appliances upright during transport
- Secure in truck using crossed ratchet straps
Tools and materials you’ll need
Moving heavy items like washers, dryers, and refrigerators requires specific tools. Make sure you’ve gathered these packing materials before starting your move:
- Appliance dolly with ratchet strap
- Shipping bolts or universal stabilizer kit
- Forearm straps for stairs or narrow halls
- Moving blankets, painter’s tape, stretch wrap
- Cardboard sheets, floor sliders, ¾-inch plywood
- Adjustable wrench, screwdrivers, pliers
- Bucket and microfiber towels
- Thread-seal tape and gas line cap (for gas dryers)
- Bubble level and zip ties
- Soapy water spray bottle (for leak test)
Step 1: Drain and prep the washing machine
Before you unhook anything, get rid of the water inside the washer to avoid leaks or mildew during transit:
- Final cycle: Run a short spin-only cycle with no laundry inside
- Drain lines: Siphon water from inlet and drain hoses into a bucket
- Dry the drum: Keep the door open for 24 hours to air out moisture
Step 2: Shut off and disconnect utilities
Utility lines must be safely disconnected before you can move either unit:
- Power: Unplug your units and turn off their circuit breakers
- Water: Turn off hot and cold valves, and label hoses for reconnection
- Gas: Turn off the valve, disconnect it with two wrenches, then cap and tape the line
- Vent: Loosen the hose clamp, detach it, and shake out lint outside
Step 3: Secure the washer drum
The inner drum is suspended with shock absorbers that can break if they’re left loose during a move. Here’s how to secure it:
- Front-loaders: Install the shipping bolts from the rear panel
- Top-loaders: Insert original stabilizers or use an aftermarket kit
Important: Never skip this step. Skipping it could crack the tub or void the warranty.
Step 4: Protect floors, walls, and doorways
These simple steps can help prevent expensive damage during the move:
- Lay down cardboard or sliders under each appliance
- Wrap corners and doors with blankets and tape
- Use plywood to protect staircases or delicate tile
Step 5: Load the appliances and move them
Getting these machines into your moving truck safely takes coordination. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a dolly to lift from the bottom center, never from the sides
- Secure with a ratchet strap and tape down loose cords
- Keep the appliance upright when you’re tilting the dolly, but never lay them flat
If you’re renting a truck, load washers and dryers last so they’re easily accessible and upright. Secure them with ratchet straps in an X-pattern.
You may also want to consider hiring a labor-only moving company to help with the heavy lifting.
Avoid common mistakes like laying the washer on its side or placing it on top of soft furniture, both of which can cause serious internal damage.
Step 6: Reconnect and test your appliances
Once you’re at your new place, it’s time to set up. Take these steps to set up and reconnect your washer and dryer:
- Remove shipping bolts
- Use a bubble level to ensure a < 1° tilt
- Reconnect water hoses and turn valves slowly
- Test gas with soapy water after connecting
- Run a rinse cycle to confirm function and check for leaks
Moving stacked washer-dryer units
Moving stacked units requires an extra step since they need to be separated before the move. Here are the steps to take to separate them without doing any damage:
- Disconnect the dryer from the wall and vent
- Remove the stacking kit (usually 4–6 brackets)
- Lift the dryer off the washer with a second person
- Move each unit separately and re-stack them at your new place
Moving appliances within the same house
Even short-distance moves require careful preparation. You should still use a dolly and protective materials as if you were moving across town.
For starters, make sure that the new location in your home has all the hookups, including a 240-volt outlet and proper ventilation, before moving anything.
DIY vs. hiring a professional
If you’re confident in your skills and have the tools, a DIY move can save hundreds. But there’s value in hiring a pro for gas appliances or tricky spaces. Here are a few considerations as you consider a DIY vs. professional move.
Task | DIY Cost | Pro Cost* | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|---|---|
Disconnect electric washer/dryer | $0–$15 | $25–$50/unit | Save money | Time-intensive |
Disconnect gas dryer | $10 | $100–$150 | Safety with pro install | DIY is risky |
Reinstall and level | $0 | $75–$150/hr | Professional setup | Higher cost |
Moving more than just a washer and dryer? Get instant quotes and compare your options in seconds with our moving cost calculator:
FAQs about moving washers and dryers
Can I lay a washer on its side?
How heavy are washers and dryers?
How long should I let the washer dry before moving it?
How do I test for a gas leak after reconnecting?
What if I lost the original shipping bolts?
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