How to move bulky kitchen appliances without damage or injury starts with the right planning and tools. These large items like refrigerators, stoves, and dishwashers are heavy, awkward, and often fragile. When moving appliances, always unplug them, empty their contents, and secure any loose parts. Use moving straps, sliders, and a dolly to protect both yourself and the floors. Avoid dragging to prevent scratches or tipping. Having help can reduce the risk of injury when moving heavy appliances. Always lift with your legs, not your back, and wear proper footwear. Whether relocating or rearranging, safe handling is key to a damage-free move.
Preparation | Getting Your Kitchen Appliances Ready for Moving
Moving kitchen appliances needs care and planning. Here’s a simple guide to help you prepare them safely.
Unplug and Turn Off
Before anything, unplug your appliances.
- For fridges and freezers, unplug at least 24 hours early.
- Ovens, dishwashers, and microwaves should also be unplugged.
- If your appliance is gas-powered, call a certified technician. Don’t try to disconnect it yourself.
Hiring kitchen appliances movers? Make sure everything is disconnected before they arrive.
Clean and Defrost
Empty your fridge and freezer.
- Let them defrost overnight to avoid leaks.
- Wipe the inside clean and dry it well.
- Leave doors open to prevent bad smells.
This step is important when moving heavy appliances across long distances.
Remove Loose Items
Take out anything that can move inside.
- Remove shelves, trays, racks, and hoses.
- Pack them separately or tape them inside the appliance.
This helps prevent damage during the move.
Measure Before You Move
Check the size of your appliances and your doors.
- Measure height, width, and depth.
- Make sure they’ll fit through doorways, stairs, and hallways.
Tell your kitchen appliances movers the sizes, so they can prepare properly.
Label and Take Photos
Use labels or masking tape to mark each item.
- Take pictures of how wires and hoses are connected.
- Keep small parts and manuals in a zip bag.
This makes setup easier in your new home.
Gas Appliances Need Experts
Don’t handle gas appliances on your own.
- Contact a licensed technician to disconnect safely.
- Do this a few days before moving.
Most moving heavy appliances companies won’t touch gas connections unless arranged ahead.
Essential Equipment for Moving Heavy Appliances
Having the proper tools makes moving appliances safer and simpler. Whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring kitchen appliances movers, here are the must-have items to move heavy units like fridges, stoves, and dishwashers without damage.
Appliance Dolly or Hand Truck
A strong appliance dolly is key for moving heavy appliances safely.
What to Look For:
- Heavy-duty wheels
- Strong straps to hold the appliance in place
- High weight capacity (at least 600 lbs)
Most kitchen appliances movers use this tool to roll big appliances out smoothly without lifting.
Furniture Sliders or Gliders
Sliders help move appliances over tile or hardwood floors without scratching them.
Best Use:
- Place under each corner of the appliance
- Slide slowly to avoid tipping
Perfect for tight spaces where wheels can’t roll.
Lifting Straps
Lifting straps give better grip and reduce back strain.
Benefits:
- Helps carry appliances with proper balance
- Frees up your hands for better control
- Makes lifting feel lighter
They’re great for DIY moves or when moving appliances with a friend.
Moving Blankets and Pads
These protect the outside of your appliances from bumps and scratches.
Use:
- Wrap around fridges, ovens, and washers
- Secure with tape or stretch wrap
Kitchen appliances movers always use pads to keep surfaces safe during loading and transit.
Packing Tape & Stretch Wrap
These help keep everything closed and secure during the move.
How to Use:
- Tape appliance doors shut
- Wrap cords and hoses
- Use stretch wrap for added protection
This avoids parts opening or dangling while moving appliances.
Tool Kit
Keep basic tools nearby to disconnect and reassemble appliances easily.
What You Need:
- Wrench
- Screwdriver
- Pliers
These help you remove doors, unplug hoses, or take off small parts quickly.
How to Move Bulky Kitchen Appliances
Moving appliances like refrigerators, ovens, and dishwashers takes more than just strength it needs the right steps and care. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to safely move bulky kitchen appliances without damage or injury.
Refrigerator
Refrigerators are large and heavy, but also sensitive.
- Keep upright to protect the compressor fluid from shifting.
- Use the tilt technique only when placing on a dolly, not during transport.
- Remove food, clean, and defrost at least 24 hours in advance.
- Secure shelves and doors with tape or stretch wrap.
Keeping the fridge upright is critical during moving appliances to avoid mechanical damage.
Stove / Oven
Stoves and ovens have loose parts that must be secured.
- Remove grates, trays, and knobs before moving.
- Tape oven doors shut to prevent them from swinging open.
- For gas ovens, call a certified technician to disconnect safely.
Always be cautious when handling gas connections during the move of bulky kitchen appliances.
Dishwasher
Dishwashers need proper draining before moving.
- Disconnect water lines and drain them fully to avoid leaks.
- Wrap cords, wires, and hoses neatly and tape them to the unit.
- Remove internal racks if loose.
Drying everything out before transport helps avoid mold and water damage during the move.
Washing Machine
Washing machines have moving drums that must be secured.
- Use drum locking bolts if available.
- Disconnect the water supply and drain all water from lines.
- Tape hoses to the back of the machine to prevent tripping.
Proper prep keeps your washer safe during transport and easier to reinstall.
Moving Through Tight Spaces
Large appliances often don’t fit through doorways easily.
- Use moving blankets and corner guards to protect walls and doors.
- Measure ahead of time to avoid last-minute problems.
- Take your time and move slowly around corners.
Bulky kitchen appliances can easily scratch walls or get stuck if not handled properly.
Lifting and Carrying Techniques
Moving heavy items safely takes teamwork.
- Lift with your legs, not your back.
- Keep the appliance close to your body.
- Use lifting straps and work in pairs or teams.
- Don’t rush slow, steady movement is safer.
These practices help avoid injuries when moving appliances.
Transport and Loading into Truck
Appliance placement in the truck matters.
- Load upright appliances last so they’re the first to unload.
- Use straps to secure them to the truck walls.
- Avoid stacking heavy items on top of bulky kitchen appliances.
- Make sure they won’t shift during transport.
Good positioning keeps your appliances safe during the ride.
Unloading and Reinstallation Tips
Once you arrive, take your time setting up.
- Carefully unload using a dolly or sliders.
- Relevel each appliance so it sits flat.
- Reconnect water lines and power cords correctly.
- Plug in appliances only when they’re completely dry.
This step ensures your appliances work properly in your new space.
Why Hire an Appliance Moving Company?
Moving bulky kitchen appliances can be tricky, risky, and time-consuming. That’s why hiring a professional appliance moving company like Chamomile Go is your best choice especially if you want safety, speed, and peace of mind.
Experience and Expertise
Our team is trained to handle all types of appliances with care:
- We safely disconnect gas lines, water hoses, and electric connections
- We know how to lift and move appliances without causing damage
- We’ve handled thousands of bulky kitchen appliances across Los Angeles, including Sherman Oaks
Safety and Insurance
Avoid injury and protect your home by leaving the heavy lifting to the pros.
- We use safe moving techniques and the right tools
- Your appliances are covered with insurance during the move
- No scratched floors or broken units we treat your home like our own
Time-Saving and Stress-Free
From prep to placement, we do it all.
- No need to find helpers or rent tools
- We manage every part of the process so you don’t have to
- If you’re in Sherman Oaks, our moving services are quick and reliable just a call away
Tools and Equipment Included
You don’t need to buy or rent a thing.
- We bring appliance dollies, lifting straps, sliders, and pads
- All tools are included in our moving and packing services in Sherman Oaks
When Hiring Pros is a Must
Call the experts when:
- You have bulky kitchen appliances that can’t be moved safely alone
- Your space has tight hallways, stairs, or fragile flooring
- You’re dealing with gas appliances
- You simply want the move done right and without stress
Trust Chamomile Go for Moving in Sherman Oaks
At Chamomile Go, we offer full-service solutions for moving and packing in Sherman Oaks and nearby areas. From bulky kitchen appliances to entire home relocations, our experienced team is ready to help you move smarter and safer. Contact Chamomile Go today for expert appliance moving, packing, and full-service relocation in Sherman Oaks!
FAQs
What Is The Safest Way To Move Heavy Kitchen Appliances Like A Refrigerator Or Stove?
The safest way to move heavy kitchen appliances is to unplug and defrost them first, disconnect water or gas lines properly, and use moving straps or a dolly for support. Make sure you clear the path, protect floors with sliders or cardboard, and have an extra pair of hands to guide the process.
Should I Hire Professional Movers For Relocating Large Kitchen Appliances?
Yes, hiring professional movers for bulky kitchen appliances is often the safest and most efficient choice. Movers are trained to handle heavy, delicate items like refrigerators, ovens, and dishwashers, minimizing the risk of damage to your appliance or property.
Do I Need To Prepare My Kitchen Appliances Before Moving Them?
Absolutely, preparation is key. Empty all contents, clean the appliance, unplug it, and if it’s a refrigerator or freezer, defrost it at least 24 hours in advance. Secure loose parts like shelves or trays and wrap the appliance in moving blankets or padding.
How Do I Protect My Floor When Moving A Heavy Kitchen Appliance?
To protect your floors, use furniture sliders, thick cardboard, or plywood sheets. Avoid dragging the appliance directly on tile, wood, or vinyl flooring, as this can scratch or crack the surface.
Can I Move A Dishwasher Without Professional Help?
You can, but caution is required. First, shut off the water and power supply. Disconnect the water line and drain hose carefully. Tilt the dishwasher gently and slide it out. Wrap it securely and avoid laying it flat if it has internal water or detergent.
