Transporting a washing machine and dryer to a new location is not an easy task, requiring not only physical strength but also knowledge of the intricacies of handling household appliances. These devices are quite large, heavy, and sensitive to shaking and improper installation. To avoid damage and additional costs, it is important to properly prepare the equipment for transportation and ensure its reliable packaging. A reliable Paradise Moving & Storage, a moving company in Boston will help make this process safe and organized, saving you from unnecessary hassle.
How to Prepare for Transporting a Washer and Dryer
Preparing a washing machine and dryer for moving requires special care, because this is large and sensitive equipment, sensitive to vibrations and damage. Incorrect preparation can lead to breakdowns, water leaks or malfunction of the mechanisms. To make the transportation of equipment to a new location as smooth as possible, we recommend that you follow the following recommendations.
Clean the washer and dryer
It is recommended to clean the washer and dryer before moving. To clean the washer, you will need specially formulated tablets designed to sanitize the washer. For the dryer, simply empty the lint container, remove any remaining lint, and clean the surface with a vacuum cleaner or cloth.
Unplug the washer and dryer
To unplug, follow these steps:
- Turn off the power. If your appliance is plugged directly into the house, go to the fuse box and turn off the breakers in the laundry room. Otherwise, just unplug the electrical cords.
- Turn off the water supply to the washing machine. There should be a water faucet near the circuit breaker. Otherwise, you may need to turn off the entire house water faucet.
- Disconnect the water hoses. You may need a wrench to do this. Once finished, place the hoses in a plastic bag to keep them from getting lost.
- If you have a gas dryer, turn off the gas line. You may also need a wrench for this task.
- Remove the dryer vents. They should also be stored in a plastic bag.
Before you begin unplugging machines, consult your owner’s manual. There are models that require special handling.
Gather your transport supplies
You may need the following tools for transport:
- Gloves
- Tie-down straps
- Appliance cart or hand truck
- Vacuum
- Wrench
- Carrying blankets
- Packing tape
- Transport bolts or lock washers
Have extra supplies in case a strap breaks, or you lose a tool during the transport process.
How to Pack a Washer and Dryer for Shipping?
Properly packing your washer and dryer is a key step to safely transporting them without damage:
Protect your appliances
Secure the washer tub with shipping bolts. These pieces of equipment fit into the bottom of the drum to keep it from moving or vibrating during shipping.
To protect the outside of your washer and dryer from scratches and dents, wrap them in cloth or cardboard. Secure the cloth with tape. Avoid using plastic wrap. It traps moisture, which can cause mold from leftover water.
Have a plan for getting downstairs
If you need to get your washer and dryer downstairs, use straps. You can also secure your washer and dryer to an appliance cart with bungee cords or lanyards. Appliance carts usually have built-in lanyards for added security.
An appliance dolly has tracks that allow you to lower or drag the appliance up and down several steps at once. The ability to glide on the surface prevents shaking.
Whenever you are carrying heavy equipment up or down stairs, stretch beforehand. It is not recommended to rush, as there is a risk of getting injured or making another mistake. Moving heavy equipment like a washer and dryer requires a lot of effort, so you should definitely not do it alone. You can get support from professionals of a moving company.
Load the appliances into the truck for transport
Now that you have removed the washer and dryer, it is time to load them into the truck. You need to position the washer and dryer, taking into account the distance and difficulty of the move.
As a rule, the safest place for the washer and dryer is closest to the cab of the car. Being close to the cab evens out the weight distribution, which helps stabilize the car and reduces gear shifting. We recommend purchasing ratchet tie-down straps. They will keep your things in place and are more secure than ropes or cords.
Bring your appliances into your new house or apartment
Once you arrive at your new place, don’t rush to install your appliances. Make sure your new location has access to water and electricity, and then plan out the unpacking process. Be sure to install the appliances while leaving yourself enough room to access the wall. If you’re tired from the initial move, wait until you’ve fully rested before doing the final installation.
How to Choose a Moving Company?
Choosing a moving company is one of the key stages of preparing for a move, which determines how quickly, safely, and stress-free the entire process will be. Here are some of the questions that you should definitely ask a moving company to understand its reliability:
- How long has the moving company been in business?
- What is the company’s reputation?
- Is the moving company licensed and insured?
- Are there any hidden fees?
- What is the procedure for filing claims in case of loss or damage to items?
To Conclude!
Your washer and dryer are essential appliances in your home, and moving them requires careful consideration. From proper preparation and packing to careful transportation, every step is important to keep your appliances in working order. Turning to the professionals at Paradise Moving & Storage, a Boston moving company, will save you time, effort, and the risks associated with moving them yourself. In addition to transportation, the company also offers a packing service and temporary storage space which can be very convenient if you do not have a garage or additional space.