The final load: How to move your washer and dryer

Moving heavy household items is a challenging and complex chore that presents health risks when done incorrectly. In fact, from 2021 to 2022, over a million workers in the US suffered from injuries and health issues due to overexertion and bodily reaction, which are commonly caused by handling and lifting loads.

Fortunately, this guide offers a safe method on how to move a washer and dryer, outlining the proper tools and technique you should use to confidently transport bulky appliances while preventing accidents and injuries.

Preparing to move your washer and dryer

Similar to a washing machine, other laundry appliances can be challenging to haul due to their size and weight. As such, it is important to determine the best way to move a washer and dryer and adequately prepare for the move.

Understanding the weight and dimensions

How much do a washer and dryer weigh? The table below shows the average weight of different washer and dryer types, as well as their typical dimensions.

Gathering the right tools and supplies

Tape measure and cleaning tools arranged on counter before relocating washer and dryer

Here are tools and equipment that can come in handy during the moving process:

Disconnecting the washer and dryer

Tasker disconnecting a washer during the appliance relocation process

Properly disconnecting a washer and dryer involves flipping off the correct breaker in the breaker box and doing the following steps:

While the instructions above apply to most washer and dryer models, it is still important to check your appliances’ manuals or user guides.

Moving your washer and dryer safely

After you disconnect the washer and dryer for moving, the next step involves following best practices for a safe and worry-free procedure.

Following best practices for moving

Don’t forget to follow best practices when it comes to moving heavy appliances. These include:

• Assuming the correct posture when lifting and using an appliance dolly;

• Clearing your path of obstacles;

• Using paddings, blankets, or sliders to protect your floors and walls;

• Asking for help moving your washer and dryer if you think you cannot do it on your own.

Using a dolly to move the appliances

Don’t just use any appliance dolly or trolley to move a washer and dryer; make sure that the one you have is stable and durable enough to carry heavy items.

Begin by tilting your appliance backwards before carefully placing the dolly beneath it. Afterwards, secure it with straps or cords to ensure it won’t slide while being transported. And since you’re moving a hefty object, wheel your dolly steadily and avoid making abrupt turns and movements.

Moving the appliances on stairs

Moving a washer and dryer upstairs or downstairs with a dolly can be especially challenging. To minimize the risk of accidents, you can seek someone’s aid and make sure that the appliances are secure. 

Whether ascending or descending stairs, you should tilt the dolly on its back wheels and take your time rolling it on every step, with the person at the bottom taking on more of the burden.

If you want to learn how to move a washer and dryer down the stairs or up a different way, you can also use moving straps. You and the person helping you should wear these harnesses around your shoulders to evenly distribute the load’s weight while climbing up or down.

Transporting your washer and dryer

Knowing how to transport a washer and dryer using a vehicle is essential, especially if you’ll be moving long distances.

Loading and securing the appliances

Taskers lifting a washer onto a moving dolly in laundry room

The best way to load appliances onto a moving truck involves using a ramp while wheeling in the dolly. This is a job best done with assistance from someone, particularly if you are moving a stacked washer and dryer.

Both the washer and dryer should be strapped down in the vehicle to prevent unnecessary movement and accidents during the entire journey. You can also keep these appliances wrapped with blankets, especially if you are transporting them with objects like furniture or fragile items. Moreover, before the vehicle departs, double-check that all doors are locked.

Relocating the washer and dryer

Before relocating your washer and dryer locally or out of state, make sure that the new space is clean and everything is in order. This will allow for a seamless move since no clutter will block the way to the laundry room.

When you finally arrive at your destination, unload the washer and dryer from the vehicle the same way you loaded them—by using a dolly and a ramp.

Reinstalling your washer and dryer

After the moving process, the next step involves reinstalling your appliances and keeping them in excellent working condition.

Setting up the appliances

Reinstalling your washer and dryer entails removing their covers and ensuring they are on stable and level ground. It also involves doing the following procedures:

Do note that, similar to disconnecting washers and dryers, installing them should be guided by the instruction manual.

Maintaining the appliances after the move

With all the effort it takes to transport a washer and dryer, it is important to keep them in good condition so they can have a longer lifespan.

Some measures you can take to ensure your appliances will last are:

• Cleaning the hoses and filters from time to time;

• Not using too much detergent and only using the right kind;

• Inspecting the connections, hoses, and washer door seals; and

• Avoiding overloading.

Spare yourself from heavy lifting with Airtasker

Are you looking for a pro to do the heavy lifting for you? Through our platform, the process to hire someone to move your washer and dryer has never been easier.

After signing up on the Airtasker app or website, you’ll be able to reach out to appliance moving experts near you. View each service provider’s ratings and reviews on their profile and consider your budget and needs to ensure you’re picking the right person for the job.