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How to Move a Washer and Dryer: A Step-by-Step Guide

A washer and dryer are some of the heaviest, most awkward things you'll move, and the most likely to cause trouble if they're not prepared properly. A washing machine that wasn't secured can damage its own drum. A dryer that wasn't disconnected correctly can leave you with leaks, scuffed floors or a gas hazard. Here's how to move both safely.

Before You Start

  • Check the manuals. Look for the manufacturer’s moving instructions for your specific models, since steps vary, especially for front-load washers.
  • Measure both machines and every doorway, hallway and stairwell along the path, plus the laundry space at your new home.
  • Gather supplies: an appliance dolly with a strap, moving blankets, a bucket, towels, rubber gloves, an adjustable wrench, and painter’s tape.
  • Line up help. Plan on at least two people. Stairs may need more.

Part 1: Preparing the Washing Machine

  1. Run a final empty cycle (or a rinse) to clear out water and detergent, then unplug the machine.
  2. Shut off the water supply and disconnect the hot and cold hoses. Keep a bucket and towels ready, because water will spill.
  3. Drain the hoses and the drain line completely. Water left inside can leak in the truck or freeze in winter. See our tips on moving in Massachusetts in winter.
  4. Install the transit (shipping) bolts or drum lock if you still have them. Many front-load washers need these to keep the drum from bouncing around and damaging the suspension. If you’ve lost them, your manufacturer can often supply replacements.
  5. Secure the hoses and cord with tape or by tucking them into the drum or a bag, and keep the hose connectors together so they don’t get lost.
  6. Clean and dry the inside, and leave the door open for a few hours so nothing gets musty.

Part 2: Preparing the Dryer

  1. Unplug the dryer, then pull it away from the wall.
  2. Detach the vent duct and clean out the lint from the duct and the vent opening. This is also a good time to clean the lint trap.
  3. Gas dryers need extra care. Shutting off and disconnecting a gas line should be done by a licensed professional, and reconnecting it at your new home should be too. If you have a gas dryer, ask a qualified technician or plumber to handle this.
  4. Tape the door shut (use painter’s tape so it doesn’t leave residue) and secure the power cord so it doesn’t drag.

Part 3: Moving Them Safely

  • Keep both machines upright, and use an appliance dolly with a strap. Don’t carry a washer by its door, lid or control panel.
  • Wrap them in moving blankets and strap them to the dolly, especially on stairs.
  • Go slowly on stairs, with a spotter below. Front-load washers are especially heavy and bottom-heavy.
  • In the truck, keep them upright, strap them against the wall, and don’t stack heavy items on top.

Part 4: Setting Up at the New Place

  1. Position the washer and level it so it doesn’t walk or shake during spin cycles.
  2. Remove the transit bolts before using the washer. Running it with them in place can cause serious damage.
  3. Reconnect the water hoses, check for leaks, and run a short test cycle.
  4. Reconnect the dryer vent so lint and moist air can exit safely, and plug the dryer in. Have a professional reconnect a gas dryer.
  5. Run both machines empty once before the first real load.

When to Hire Professional Movers

A washer and dryer are good candidates for professional help if:

  • You’re moving up or down stairs, or out of a walk-up apartment. Our apartment movers handle tight hallways and elevator reservations every day.
  • You’d rather not deal with water lines, gas lines or transit bolts
  • The machines are large front-loaders or a stacked unit
  • You want everything, including the refrigerator, set in place in one trip. See our guide to moving a refrigerator.

Our large item moving crews do this work regularly, and it fits into any local move. Replacing old machines instead? Our junk removal service can haul the old ones away on the same visit. Moving a small place? Our guide to moving a one-bedroom apartment in Worcester has the full picture.

Quick Washer and Dryer Moving Checklist

  • Checked manuals for model-specific steps
  • Washer drained, hoses disconnected, transit bolts installed
  • Dryer vent detached and cleaned; gas line handled by a pro
  • Doors taped shut, cords secured
  • Appliance dolly, straps and blankets ready
  • Moved and loaded upright
  • Leveled, bolts removed, leak-checked and test-run at the new place

Get a Quote for Your Move

Moving a washer and dryer is easier with a crew that does it every day. Contact Philip P. Massad Movers for a free quote. We’ll move your appliances and the rest of your home safely. Serving Worcester and the surrounding towns.