Moving to a new home is an exciting endeavor, but the process can be stressful, especially when it comes to transporting appliances.
Not only are household appliances some of the most essential items in your home, they’re also often large and awkward to move from place to place.
Luckily, with some careful planning, the job doesn’t have to be impossible!
Whether you’re hiring movers in NYC or your own area to help you through the process, or you’re planning a DIY move to your new abode, keeping these tips in mind can help make the process smoother:
Plan Ahead
The key to a successful appliance relocation is proper planning. Start by creating a thorough inventory of the appliances you own.
Then, determine which items you will take with you, and which ones you will replace or sell. This will help you decide on the type and size of moving truck you will need.
Finally, decide whether you’d prefer to tackle transporting appliances on your own, or have a professional moving company help you.
That way, if needed, you can start researching moving companies and comparing quotes to ensure you get the best deal.
Measure and Prepare
Before moving day, measure the dimensions of both your appliances and the entryways of your new home.
Ensure that your appliances will fit through doors, hallways, and staircases. Remove any doors or obstacles that may obstruct the path.
Additionally, disconnect any utilities, such as gas, water, or electricity, and make sure the appliances are empty, clean, and dry to prevent any damage during transportation.
Secure the Doors and Components
Appliances with doors, such as refrigerators, freezers, and ovens, should have their doors secured to prevent them from swinging open during transit.
Use sturdy ropes or straps to hold the doors shut and avoid any mishaps.
Similarly, remove any detachable components, such as shelves or trays, and pack them separately to avoid breakage and help minimize the weight of the appliance.
Gather Proper Packing Materials
Invest in high-quality packing materials to protect your appliances.
Start with heavy-duty moving blankets to shield the surfaces from scratches. Bubble wrap, foam sheets, and packing peanuts can provide additional cushioning.
Use strong packing tape to secure the protective layers in place.
Use Original Packaging
Whenever possible, use the original packaging for appliances. Manufacturers design these boxes to offer optimal protection during transportation.
If you no longer have the original boxes, consider purchasing specialized appliance boxes designed for moving. These boxes provide extra support and protection against potential bumps or jolts.
Secure Appliances in the Moving Truck
When loading the appliances onto the moving truck, place them in an upright position whenever possible. Secure them tightly with ropes or straps to prevent shifting during transit.
Position heavier appliances on the bottom and lighter ones on top to distribute the weight evenly.
Seek Professional Assistance
Moving large appliances can be a challenging task, especially if you lack the necessary equipment or physical strength.
That’s why it can be a good idea to consider hiring professional movers who specialize in handling appliances.
They will be able to provide the expertise and tools to ensure a secure and efficient transportation process.
Handle with Care
Throughout the moving process, handle your appliances with utmost care.
Avoid dragging them across the floor, as this can damage the appliance’s base. Instead, use a dolly or furniture sliders to safely maneuver heavy appliances.
Be cautious when navigating tight corners or stairs, to prevent accidents or damage to the appliance or your new home.
Inspect and Test
Upon arrival at your new home, carefully inspect each appliance for any damage that may have occurred during transit.
If you notice any issues, document them immediately and notify the moving company or your insurance provider.
Test each appliance to ensure they are functioning properly as soon as you reconnect the utilities.
Transporting appliances during a move is no small job! It requires careful planning, proper preparation, and diligent execution.
But, as long as you take your time with the process and ensure you know what you’re doing every step of the way, you can make your appliance move a success.
And, when in doubt, calling professional movers to help can be a great way to save yourself the time and stress of doing the job yourself!