Learn How to Pack Big Appliances

You'll save a decent amount of money if you're able to disconnect, connect and move your own appliances. Here are some tips on how to do it.

Dishwasher


  • Remove all dishes and tape down the racks and silverware basket.

  • Review the owner's manual for removing and draining the water hook-up.

  • Look and tape the door shut. Tape the house and cord to the dishwasher.

  • Tie a large pad around it for protection


Dryer


  • Disassemble the exhaust hose from the wall and disconnect it from the dryer.

  • Tape the electrical cord and dryer door to the dryer body itself.

  • Tie a large pad around it for protection.


Refrigerator


  • Empty out all the contents and defrost one day before moving day. (never transport perishable food-eat what you can give the rest away)

  • Empty the drainage pan, disconnect electrical cord and drain out your automatic icemaker.

  • Clean all drawers, walls, and shelves.

  • Check your owner's manual for what type of preparations is needed for you refrigerator.

  • Wrap shelves and tape them together. Tape down all other loose parts, including the drawers on the inside and the doors on the outside. Tape the electrical cord to the refrigerator.

  • Tie a large pad around it for protection.


Stove


  • Clean the oven and stovetop.

  • Place all oven racks on the bottom rung and tape down.

  • Tape down the burners and the protective pans under each burner.

  • Lock the door stove, if you can, tape the electrical cord.

  • Tie a large pad around it for protection.


Washing Machine


  • Finish doing all your laundry a couple of days before your moving day.

  • Drain all water out of washer. Tip the washer sideways to empty out remaining water from the water hose, if possible. Then clean the interior with a towel.

  • Take out all accessories and fittings and put them in a plastic bag. Pack them in a box and mark it.

  • Stuff towels between the washing machine sides and the tub to keep the tub from rotating.

  • Fill the basket with clothes, linens etc. Also include a box of baking soda to cut down on mildew (make sure not to tear open the top of the box).

  • Tape the lid and electrical cord.