A Step-by-Step Guide from Cross Town Movers of Eugene, Oregon
Moving large appliances like a washer and dryer can be a difficult task. These appliances are heavy, bulky, and awkward to maneuver, making them some of the most challenging items to relocate. Without proper preparation and equipment, you risk damaging your appliances, scratching your floors, or even injuring yourself.
At Cross Town Movers of Eugene, Oregon, we understand the difficulties of moving large household appliances, and we’re here to help. Whether you want to hire professionals to do the heavy lifting or tackle the job yourself, this guide will walk you through the best practices for safely moving a washer and dryer.
Why Moving a Washer and Dryer Is Challenging
Before we dive into the step-by-step process, it’s important to understand why moving a washer and dryer requires extra care:
✔ Heavy & Bulky – Washers typically weigh between 150-250 lbs, while dryers can weigh 100-150 lbs.
✔ Fragile Internal Components – Washers have delicate drums, and dryers have electronic panels that need protection.
✔ Water & Electrical Connections – Both appliances must be properly disconnected from power, gas, and water before moving.
✔ Tight Spaces & Doorways – Moving these appliances through narrow doorways, stairs, and tight hallways requires careful planning.
Step-by-Step Guide to Moving a Washer and Dryer
Step 1: Empty & Prepare the Washer and Dryer
Before you start moving, make sure both appliances are completely empty:
✔ Remove all clothes, detergent, and dryer sheets.
✔ Run an empty wash cycle the day before moving to drain excess water.
✔ Leave the washer door open overnight to allow moisture to fully dry.
? Tip: Mold and mildew can develop inside a closed, damp washer. Letting it air dry prevents any unpleasant odors from forming.
Step 2: Unplug and Disconnect Both Appliances
For safety reasons, always turn off the power supply before unplugging your washer and dryer.
✔ Shut off the circuit breaker that powers the appliances.
✔ Unplug both the washer and dryer.
✔ Use tape or zip ties to secure the power cords to the appliances to prevent tripping hazards.
? Tip: If you have a gas dryer, you must shut off the gas valve and disconnect the gas line before moving. If you’re unsure how to do this, call a licensed technician to avoid potential leaks.
Step 3: Disconnect the Washer from the Water Supply
Unlike dryers, washing machines are connected to hot and cold-water lines. You’ll need to:
✔ Turn off the water supply at the wall.
✔ Disconnect both the hot and cold hoses from the washer.
✔ Drain any remaining water from the hoses into a bucket.
✔ Remove and secure the drain hose from the wall.
? Tip: Keep a towel handy in case of water spills when disconnecting the hoses.
Step 4: Secure the Washer Drum
The washer drum is a delicate moving part that needs to be stabilized before transport. Most washers come with shipping bolts that secure the drum in place.
✔ If you still have the original shipping bolts, insert them into the back of the washer.
✔ If you don’t have shipping bolts, use a moving blanket and packing foam inside the drum to prevent movement.
? Tip: If you’re unsure how to stabilize your washer drum, check your appliance manual or call a professional moving company like Cross Town Movers for assistance.
Step 5: Measure Doorways and Hallways
Before moving your washer and dryer, ensure they will fit through all doorways, hallways, and stairwells.
✔ Measure the width and height of each appliance.
✔ Measure doorways, stairwells, and hallways along the moving path.
✔ Remove any obstacles, rugs, or furniture that might be in the way.
? Tip: If a doorway is too narrow, you may need to remove the door hinges temporarily to create more space.
Step 6: Protect Your Appliances with Moving Pads
To prevent scratches and dents, always use moving blankets or furniture pads to cover the washer and dryer before moving them.
✔ Wrap each appliance in a moving blanket.
✔ Use packing tape or stretch wrap to keep the blankets secure.
? Tip: Never use plastic wrap directly on appliances, as it can trap moisture and cause damage.
Step 7: Use a Moving Dolly and Ratchet Straps
Because washers and dryers are extremely heavy, they should never be carried by hand. Instead, always use a moving dolly and ratchet straps:
✔ Carefully tilt the appliance backward and slide a dolly underneath.
✔ Use ratchet straps or bungee cords to secure the appliance to the dolly.
✔ Move slowly, using caution around corners and staircases.
? Tip: If your move involves stairs, you should never attempt to lift a washer or dryer alone—always use at least two people or hire professional movers.
Why Hire Professional Movers for Heavy Appliances?
While it is technically possible to move a washer and dryer yourself, it’s not always the best idea. Here’s why hiring Cross Town Movers of Eugene, Oregon is a smart decision:
✔ Avoid Injury – Our trained professionals know how to safely lift and transport heavy appliances.
✔ Prevent Damage – We use proper moving pads, dollies, and equipment to protect your home and appliances.
✔ Save Time & Effort – Moving a washer and dryer alone can take hours—we get the job done quickly and efficiently.
✔ Peace of Mind – We are licensed and insured, ensuring that your appliances arrive safely at your new home.
? Call Cross Town Movers today at (541) 683-5211 for a FREE moving estimate!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I move my washer and dryer without a dolly?
No, it is highly recommended to use a moving dolly and ratchet straps to safely transport these heavy appliances.
- How long does it take to move a washer and dryer?
If done correctly, it can take 30 minutes to 1 hour to move both appliances. However, this can vary depending on the layout of your home and whether stairs are involved.
- Should I hire professional movers for my washer and dryer?
Yes! Hiring professional movers will save you time, effort, and potential injury. Cross Town Movers can safely transport your appliances, ensuring they arrive undamaged at your new home.
- How much does it cost to move a washer and dryer?
Pricing varies based on the distance, difficulty, and number of movers needed. Contact Cross Town Movers for a free quote!
- Can Cross Town Movers disconnect and reconnect my appliances?
We can safely move your appliances, but we recommend hiring a licensed plumber or electrician to handle disconnections and hookups.
Call Cross Town Movers for a Stress-Free Move!
Moving a washer and dryer is no easy task, but you don’t have to do it alone! Whether you’re moving across town or just need help loading and unloading, Cross Town Movers of Eugene, Oregon is here to help.
? Call us today at (541) 683-5211 for a FREE quote!
? Cross Town Movers – Moving You Forward, One Appliance at a Time! ?