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How to Move a Washer and Dryer

Posted: August 10, 2023
Two movers carry a washing machine with straps on their shoulders.

Moving large appliances can be a tricky task, that’s why we put together this guide on how to move a washer and dryer to make sure you don’t skip a single step. 

If you would rather leave the trouble to us, Moving Help® has Service Providers on the Marketplace who’ll move a washer and dryer for you. 

What Tools Do I Need to Move a Washer and Dryer? 

Moving a washer and dryer isn’t as simple as moving other objects. You’ll need some tools and materials to move them properly. Below is a list of the possible items to consider getting prior to moving a washer and dryer. 

  • Washer user manual
  • Dryer user manual
  • Foam or cardboard
  • Furniture pads
  • Packing tape
  • Hand truck with straps
  • Appliance dolly
  • Slip joint pliers
  • Small bucket or bowl
  • Rags
  • Closed-toed shoes
  • A family member or a friend

Without some of these tools, it’ll make it that much more difficult to do the job in an efficient manner without breaking your appliances. You’ll certainly want an appliance dolly, moving blankets, and your manuals at the minimum. 

The average washing machine weighs anywhere from 150 to 230 pounds.

Home Depot

How to Move a Washer

If you want to know how to move a washing machine by yourself or with the help of a friend or family member, below are some important steps to keep in mind. 

  1. Leading up to moving day, clean the washing machine on a short cycle. After the cycle is done, leave the lid open to let any remaining water evaporate.
  1. Turn off the switch in the electric panel that goes to the washing machine. 
  1. Disconnect the power cord and turn off the water supply.
  1. Reposition the washing machine to have better access so you can use pliers to remove the supply lines one at a time.
  1. Disconnect and empty the drain hose.
  1. Wedge foam or cardboard between the drum and the case of the washing machine. 
  1. Secure the power cord to the back of the washing machine.
  1. Wrap the washing machine with furniture pads.
  1. After easing the center of the washing machine on the appliance dolly, remember to keep it upright. Use straps on the appliance dolly.
  1. Make sure it’s properly secured when transporting it. 

If this feels too complicated or time-consuming for you, you can always hire a Service Provider from the Moving Help Marketplace to move the washer for you. 

Depending on the model, your dryer can weigh between 150 and 200 pounds.

HomeX

How to Move a Dryer

If you want to know how to move a dryer by yourself or with the help of a friend or family member. Below are some crucial steps to keep in mind. 

  1. Turn off the switch in the electric panel that goes to the dryer. 
  1. Tilt the dryer and tighten the legs. 
  1. Unplug the dryer power cord.
  1. Disconnect the dryer vents and disconnect gas, if applicable. 
  1. Make sure to tape the door shut.
  1. Wrap the dryer with furniture pads.
  1. After easing the center of the dryer on the appliance dolly, make sure you use the appliance dolly’s straps.
  1. Make sure it’s properly secured when transporting it.

If this feels too complicated or time-consuming for you, you can always hire a Service Provider from the Moving Help Marketplace to move the dryer for you.

Other Moving Help Specialty Services

Some Moving Help Service Providers offer specialty services, such as upright piano moving, grand piano moving, gun safe moving, or moving extra heavy items. If you’re unsure whether you have a specialty item, ask your Service Provider when you hire them, and they’ll let you know. 

Have a Moving Help Service Provider Assist You

It’s easier said than done when moving a washer and dryer. You’ll need a friend, equipment, closed-toe shoes, and patience. So why try moving a washer and dryer with your sweat and tears when you can hire a professional moving labor provider? 

The Moving Help Marketplace has many Service Providers who’ll know how to properly and carefully move your washer and dryer on moving day. Unless you know how to move a washing machine and you know how to move a dryer, it’s best to leave it to the professionals and not damage important appliances.