How to Move a Refrigerator Safely and Correctly

Moving a refrigerator ranks among the most challenging household relocation tasks you will face. These heavy appliances typically weigh between 200 and 400 pounds, with larger models exceeding 450 pounds. The combination of extreme weight, awkward dimensions, and delicate internal components makes refrigerator relocation a project that demands careful planning, proper equipment, and precise execution. While some homeowners attempt a DIY move, many ultimately rely on a professional moving company like Alemo Transport to ensure the job is done safely and efficiently.

Understanding the correct techniques protects both you and your valuable appliance from damage and injury.

Understanding Refrigerator Weight

Before attempting any move, you need to know exactly how much your appliance weighs. Mini fridges and compact models weigh between 40 and 80 pounds. Top freezer refrigerators weigh between 150 and 250 pounds. Bottom freezer models range from 200 to 350 pounds. Side-by-side refrigerators weigh between 250 and 450 pounds. French door refrigerators weigh between 300 and 450 pounds on average, with some high-end models exceeding 500 pounds.

Additional features like ice makers, water dispensers, and smart technology can add 20 to 60 pounds to the total weight. Understanding your specific refrigerator’s weight helps you determine how many helpers you need and whether professional movers make more sense than a DIY approach.

Essential Moving Equipment

You should never move a refrigerator without an appliance dolly, unless you are simply sliding it out from its cutout. Standard furniture dollies cannot handle the weight distribution and height of refrigerators safely.

Required tools include:

• Heavy-duty appliance dolly rated for at least 800 pounds
• Furniture sliders to protect flooring
• Moving blankets to prevent scratches
• Heavy-duty straps or bungee cords
• Stretch wrap or packing tape
• Floor protection materials such as cardboard or hardboard
• Measuring tape for clearance checks
• Cooler with ice for perishables
• Work gloves with strong grip
• At least one additional helper, ideally two or three

Preparing Your Refrigerator for Moving

Proper preparation significantly reduces risks during transport.

Empty and Clean

Remove all food from the refrigerator and freezer compartments. Pack items you want to keep in coolers with ice. Once empty, clean the interior thoroughly and wipe down exterior surfaces. Clean condenser coils using a brush or vacuum.

Remove Shelves and Parts

Remove all shelves, drawers, and bins. Wrap glass components in protective material and pack them separately. Secure any non-removable parts with tape or plastic wrap.

Defrost the Refrigerator

Defrost the refrigerator at least 24 hours before moving. Unplug it and leave doors open. Place towels or pans beneath to catch melting water and empty the drip pan if applicable.

Disconnect Properly

Turn off the water supply and disconnect any water lines. Secure the power cord to the back of the appliance so it does not drag or snag.

Measuring and Planning Your Route

Measure your refrigerator’s height, width, and depth, including handles and hinges. Compare these measurements to all doorways and hallways. Most standard doorways measure between 32 and 36 inches wide.

Clear your entire path and protect floors with cardboard or hardboard. Some models may require door removal to fit through tight spaces.

Moving the Refrigerator Safely

Secure and Wrap

Secure doors with tape or straps and wrap the refrigerator in moving blankets. Padding protects both the appliance and your home.

Slide Away from the Wall

Use furniture sliders and gently walk the refrigerator forward. Never drag it across flooring.

Load Onto the Dolly

Tilt the refrigerator from the side and slide the dolly underneath. Secure it tightly with straps so there is no movement.

Transport the Refrigerator

Keep the appliance upright and never tilt it beyond 45 degrees. Move slowly and carefully through doorways, corners, and stairs. For stairs, at least two people must coordinate closely.

For office relocations, retail spaces, or multi-unit properties, professional commercial moving services are often the safest option when transporting heavy appliances.

Loading and Securing in the Moving Truck

Use a ramp or liftgate and keep the refrigerator upright. Secure it tightly to the truck wall with multiple straps and add padding at contact points to prevent shifting during transit.

After the Move: Setting Up

Allow the refrigerator to remain upright for 4 to 6 hours before plugging it in. If it was laid on its side, wait at least 24 hours. Level the appliance and ensure proper ventilation clearance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Never move a refrigerator without a dolly. Never skip defrosting. Never tilt beyond 45 degrees or lay it on its back or front. Never move a refrigerator alone or rush the process.

Professional Support for Heavy Appliance Moves

At Alemo Transport, our experienced team specializes in safely relocating heavy appliances throughout the Greater DMV Area. From proper disconnection and protective wrapping to secure transport and reinstallation, we handle every detail with care and precision.

If you want to eliminate stress and reduce risk, our packing and unpacking services ensure your refrigerator and surrounding kitchen items are fully protected before, during, and after your move.

Whether you need full-service assistance or help with the heaviest lifting, Alemo Transport delivers reliable, transparent, and professional moving solutions across Maryland, Washington DC, and Virginia.

For help with your refrigerator move or a complete relocation, contact Alemo Transport at 240-968-6717 or email alemotransport@gmail.com. Let trained professionals handle the heavy work while you focus on settling into your new space.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should a refrigerator be unplugged before moving?
Unplug your refrigerator at least 24 hours before moving to allow complete defrosting. This prevents water leakage during transport and protects internal components. The appliance should be completely dry inside before you begin the physical move.

Can you transport a refrigerator laying down?
Refrigerators should always be transported upright when possible. If you must lay it down, only place it on its side, never on the back or front. After transport, let it stand upright for twice as long as it was horizontal before plugging in.

How many people does it take to move a refrigerator?
You need at least two strong adults for standard refrigerators weighing 200 to 300 pounds. Larger models over 350 pounds require three or four helpers. Never attempt to move a refrigerator alone, regardless of size, as injuries are nearly certain.

Do you need to empty a refrigerator before moving it?
Yes, always remove all food, beverages, and removable shelves before moving. This reduces weight significantly, prevents spills and damage, and keeps the interior clean. Pack perishables in coolers with ice to maintain safe temperatures during the move.

How long after moving a fridge can you plug it in?
Wait at least 4 to 6 hours if transported upright, or preferably 24 hours if transported on its side. This settling period allows coolant and compressor oil to return to proper positions, preventing damage when you restore power to the appliance.