Moving a refrigerator isn’t as simple as rolling it out the door. Refrigerators are heavy, bulky, and sensitive to improper handling. If moved incorrectly, they can leak water, damage floors and walls, or even suffer internal damage that affects performance later.
Whether you’re relocating, upgrading appliances, or rearranging your home, following the right steps can help you move your refrigerator safely and efficiently.
Step 1: Prepare the Refrigerator Before Moving
Empty the Refrigerator Completely
Start preparing several days before the move. Remove all food items and dispose of or give away anything you won’t be taking with you. For items you plan to keep, use a cooler with ice packs during the move.
Once empty, remove all shelves, bins, and drawers. Wrap these parts separately to prevent cracking or shifting during transport.
Disconnect Power and Water Lines
Unplug the refrigerator from the wall outlet. If your unit has a water or ice dispenser, shut off the water supply and carefully disconnect the water line.
Important: If you’re unsure how to safely disconnect the water line, it’s best to have a plumber handle it. Improper shutoff can cause leaks and water damage.
Defrost the Refrigerator (If needed)
If your refrigerator will be placed in storage or transported for several hours—especially in warm weather—defrosting is essential.
- Unplug the unit
- Prop the doors open
- Place towels inside to absorb moisture
- Allow 24–48 hours for complete drying
This prevents water from leaking inside the moving truck or your home.
Step 2: Clear a Safe Path for Moving
Measure Doorways and Hallways
Modern refrigerators are often wider than standard door frames. Measure your fridge and all exit points in advance. If needed, remove interior doors or even the refrigerator doors to create enough clearance.
Protect Floors, Walls, and the Appliance
Refrigerators can easily scratch hardwood floors or dent walls. Use:
- Rubber floor mats or cardboard
- Furniture sliders
- Moving blankets
- Shrink wrap to secure doors and protect the exterior
These precautions are especially important in apartments or rental homes.
Step 3: Move the Refrigerator Using the Right Equipment
Always Use a Dolly
Never attempt to move a refrigerator without a dolly. A four-wheel appliance dolly is ideal.
How to load it safely:
- Pad the dolly to prevent scratches
- Slide it under the refrigerator
- Secure the unit with ratchet straps
- Slowly tilt back until balanced
- Keep one person guiding while the other moves
Always keep the refrigerator upright during transport.
Avoid Laying the Refrigerator Flat
While it may seem easier, laying a refrigerator on its side can cause compressor fluids to move into areas where they shouldn’t.
If the refrigerator is accidentally tilted or laid down:
- Keep it upright for several hours before plugging it in
- This allows internal fluids to settle properly and prevents compressor damage
Step 4: Secure the Refrigerator in the Moving Truck
Once inside the truck:
- Strap the refrigerator tightly to the wall
- Prevent rolling or tipping during transit
- Keep it upright and well-padded
Refrigerators have limited wheel locks, so proper securing is critical.
Step 5: Reinstall at the New Location
After delivery:
- Carefully wheel the refrigerator into position
- Lower it slowly from the dolly
- Reattach doors if removed
- Reconnect water lines and power
- Wait a few hours before restocking food
This ensures safe operation and optimal cooling performance.
Moving a refrigerator requires planning, patience, and the right tools. While it’s possible to do it yourself, the process carries risks if handled incorrectly. Professional movers are trained to handle heavy appliances safely, reducing the chance of injury or damage. Moving a refrigerator in a city like New York requires planning, precision, and the right equipment. Movers Not Shakers provides reliable moving solutions in NYC, helping residents navigate tight hallways, walk-ups, elevators, and narrow doorways with confidence. From careful handling to secure transport, our team understands the challenges of moving large appliances safely. If you’re planning a move and want experienced support, contact us today to discuss your upcoming NYC relocation.
