Moving a couch requires muscle. Moving a washing machine requires strategy.
If you have decided to handle your move yourself rather than hiring professional movers, the washing machine is likely the most difficult item on your list. It is heavy, awkward to hold, and full of delicate internal mechanics that can break easily if jostled the wrong way.
But don't worry. With the right tools and a little patience, you can get it to your new home in one piece. Here is your step-by-step guide on how to move a washing machine safely.
1. Gather the Right Supplies
You cannot move a washer with just your bare hands. Before you start disconnecting anything, make sure you have these tools ready:
- Transit Bolts: These are the metal rods that came with your machine when you bought it. If you lost them, buy a set online that matches your specific model.
- Appliance Dolly: Do not use a standard hand truck; you need an appliance dolly with straps.
- Moving Blankets: To protect the machine's finish.
- Slip-Joint Pliers: To disconnect the hoses.
- Bucket and Towels: To catch leftover water.
- Packing Tape: To secure the cords.
2. Clean and Drain the Machine
Unlike a dresser, a washing machine has water inside it even when it looks empty. If you do not drain it, that water can leak during transit, damaging your other belongings or causing the machine to smell.
Run a "spin/drain" cycle to get rid of as much water as possible. Once that is done, turn off the water supply valves behind the machine. Disconnect the water supply hoses and the drain hose. Tip: Have your bucket ready! Water will spill out when you unscrew these hoses.
If you are moving items into temporary storage, making sure the machine is completely dry is critical to prevent mold growth.
3. The Most Important Step: Install Transit Bolts
This is the step most people forget, and it is the #1 reason washing machines break during a move.
Your washing machine has a heavy concrete counterweight inside it suspended by springs. This suspension allows the drum to spin rapidly without shaking your house down. However, during a move, if that drum bounces around freely, it can smash the internal motor or sensors.
You must insert the transit bolts into the back of the machine to lock the drum in place. If you move the machine without them, you risk permanent damage that might not be covered by standard moving insurance.
4. Secure the Hoses and Cords
Once the machine is drained and the bolts are in, clean the outside. Tape the electrical cord and the drain hose to the back of the machine so they don't dangle. You do not want to trip over a loose wire while carrying a 200-pound appliance.
5. Load It Onto the Dolly
Wrap the washing machine in moving blankets to prevent scratches. Then, with a helper, tilt the machine slightly back and slide the appliance dolly underneath.
Crucial Safety Tip: Always keep the washing machine upright. Never lay a washing machine on its side or back. Doing so can cause the oil in the motor to leak into the drum or damage the suspension springs.
Strap the machine tightly to the dolly. When you tilt the dolly back to move, the weight should be balanced so you aren't struggling to hold it up.
6. Loading the Truck
If you are navigating stairs, take it one step at a time. The person holding the dolly handles should be at the top, pulling up, while a helper acts as a spotter at the bottom (guiding, not lifting). This is one of the hardest parts of a move. If you have a narrow staircase or a walk-up, you might want to reconsider the pros and cons of DIY moving versus calling in pros.
Once on the truck, push the washer against the front wall of the cargo area (closest to the driver's cab). Keep it upright and strap it to the side of the truck so it doesn't shift. For more guidance on transporting other heavy appliances, check out our guide on how to move a refrigerator.
7. Reinstalling at the New Home
When you arrive, reverse the process:
- Move the machine into place (leave a little room to work behind it).
- Remove the transit bolts. (If you forget to remove them and run the machine, it will shake violently and could break).
- Connect the water and drain hoses.
- Turn on the water valves and check for leaks.
- Plug it in and run a test cycle.
Before reinstalling, make sure you've completed all utility setup steps so your water and electricity are ready to go.
What Movers Can and Cannot Transport
If you're working with professional movers, it's important to know that some items require special handling or preparation. Learn more about what movers can and cannot transport in NYC to ensure your appliances are move-ready.
When to Call the Professionals
Moving a washing machine is physically demanding. If you are dealing with tight corners, multiple flights of stairs, or you simply don't have the right equipment, it might be safer to get help.
At ZeroMax Moving, your trusted appliance moving specialists in NYC, we have the tools and experience to handle heavy appliances safely. Our specialized washer and dryer moving services ensure your appliances are transported with the proper equipment and care. Whether you are just moving down the block or need help moving out of NYC entirely, we can ensure your washer arrives ready to do your next load of laundry.