Most appliance faults after a move do not happen on the road. They come from the wrong preparation beforehand, or switching on too soon afterwards. A fridge moved on its back and switched on straight away, and a washing machine moved without its drum secured, are the two classic cases. Here is how to prepare each appliance.
How do you prepare a fridge for a move?
- Unplug it the day before and empty it.
- Let the freezer defrost, and dry the tray and shelves.
- Take out the glass shelves and wrap them separately.
- Secure the doors with wide tape or a strap so they cannot swing open.
- Move it upright where possible, not on its back.
At the new home, leave it standing for several hours before you switch it on, so the oil settles back in the compressor. Some manufacturers give a specific time, so check your fridge's manual if you have it.
How do you prepare a washing machine?
Unplug the machine and close the water valve, then disconnect the hose and drain the water left in it and in the drum. Front loaders come with transit bolts that hold the drum in place. Fit them before the move if you still have them, because they stop the drum swinging and damaging its suspension. Coil the hose and cable and tape them to the back of the machine.
What about air conditioners?
A window unit comes out of its frame, is wrapped and moves upright. A split unit needs a technician to take it down and pump the gas into the outdoor unit before the pipes are disconnected, then to install it at the new home. Mention any AC units when you order so it can be arranged in advance.
TVs and small devices
A TV travels in its original box if you kept it, or wrapped in bubble wrap and a blanket, always upright, with nothing on top. Photograph the cables behind the TV and the router before unplugging them and you will reconnect in minutes. Carry laptops and small valuable devices yourself.
| Appliance | Before the move | After arrival |
|---|---|---|
| Fridge | Unplug a day early, dry, secure doors | Stand several hours before switching on |
| Washing machine | Drain, secure the drum | Remove transit bolts before use |
| Split AC | Taken down by a technician | Installed and tested |
| TV | Wrap and photograph the cables | Reconnect from the photos |
A mistake that keeps happening
Running the washing machine at the new home with the transit bolts still in. That can ruin it in the first minute. Stick a note on the door: remove the bolts before use.
The crew wraps appliances, loads them and secures them inside the truck, and the load is insured for the whole trip. Read how to pack furniture for the rest of the house.
Frequently asked questions
How long should I wait before switching the fridge on after a move?
Leave it standing for several hours so the compressor oil settles, and follow the manufacturer's manual if it gives a specific time.
Can a fridge be moved lying down?
Upright is best. If you have to tilt it, keep the angle small and wait longer before switching it on.
Does the crew move air conditioners?
Tell the team the type and number of units when you order. Split units need a technician to take them down and reinstall them, which is arranged in advance.
Are appliances insured during the move?
Yes. The load is insured for the whole trip, and you receive the coverage details with your order confirmation.
