How to Move a Washing Machine – Secure Transport Instructions

Movers pick boxes

Get Your Free Moving Estimate

Moving a washing machine can feel overwhelming because washers are heavy, bulky, and contain delicate internal parts. Whether you’re moving a washing machine to a new home, taking it downstairs, or transporting a washer and dryer together, it’s crucial to understand the correct process to avoid breaking a washing machine and injuring yourself. This guide explains how to move a washing machine by yourself, the tools you need, safety tips, and answers to common transport questions like can you transport a washer on its side.

How Much Do Washing Machines Weigh?

  • Top Load Washer: typically 130–180 lbs

  • Front Loading Washing Machine Weight: usually 180–250 lbs

  • Washer and Dryer Weight (combined): around 250–350 lbs

So if you’re wondering how heavy washing machines are or how much does a wash machine weigh, remember that most people cannot safely lift one alone without proper moving tools like a washer machine dolly or a hand truck to move washing machine.

Get Your Free Moving Quote Today — Save Time and Money!

Loading Best Moving Companies...

How to Move a Washing Machine by Yourself (Step-by-Step)

1. Unplug, Disconnect & Drain Water

Before moving a washing machine, always disconnect the water lines and electrical plug.

  • Turn off the main water valves

  • Remove hoses and drain excess water

  • Use a bucket or towels to collect water

Many people ask how to drain a washer for moving or how to drain a washing machine to move. The answer is simple: run the spin + drain cycle, remove the drain hose, and tilt slightly forward until water stops flowing.

2. Secure the Drum

To prevent internal damage while moving the washing machine, insert transit bolts (shipping pins) if you have them. This prevents internal shocks and protects the motor.

3. Prepare for Lifting

To prevent injuries when lifting washing machine, use a dolly or get help from another person.

People often ask:

  • How to lift a washing machine by yourself?

  • How to lift a washer by yourself?

  • How to lift a washing machine alone?

Use this method:

  1. Tilt the washer slightly backward

  2. Slide a washer machine dolly under the front

  3. Strap it securely before moving

If you wonder how to move a washing machine without a dolly, place thick moving blankets underneath and slide carefully on smooth floors.

4. Moving a Washer Downstairs

For how to move a washer and dryer downstairs, always:

  • Secure with heavy-duty straps

  • Move slowly step-by-step

  • Use two people minimum

If alone, sliding on a blanket and lowering one step at a time is safer.

Can You Transport a Washer on Its Side?

It is not recommended to transport a washing machine on its side or back. Doing so can damage the drum, suspension system, and internal components. Always transport upright when possible.

Only lay sideways in emergencies and reinstall transit bolts first.

How to Transport a Washer and Dryer

The best way to move a washer and dryer is:

  • Keep them upright

  • Strap securely inside the truck

  • Protect with moving blankets

If stacked, learning how to move a stacked washer and dryer by yourself requires separating the top dryer unit first.

Extra Tips

  • If your washer “walks,” learn how to stop a washing machine walking by adjusting leveling feet and using anti-vibration pads.

  • If your washing machine dismantle process is needed, remove hoses, door, and drum weights carefully.

  • If i need a new washing machine, check for repairs before replacing.

Final Thoughts

Now you understand exactly how to move a washing machine safely, how to move a washer and dryer, and the safest best way to move washer and dryer without damaging equipment or floors. Using proper tools and steps ensures a smooth relocation process especially when moving a front loading washing machine.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Related Posts