Preparing Appliances for a Move – Keep Your Fridge, Washer & Cooker Safe
Large household appliances are often the most awkward things to handle on moving day. A sofa can be lifted by two people, but a fridge freezer or washing machine needs thought, time and the right kit. At TT Removals Bradford, we move white goods daily across West Yorkshire. Here’s our in-depth guide to preparing them so they travel safely and start working the moment you plug them back in.
1️⃣ Plan Ahead
Decide which appliances are going and which will be sold, donated or recycled. Clearing out anything you don’t need saves van space and time. If you’re taking everything, check that each appliance will fit through doors and hallways at both addresses — especially American-style fridge freezers.
2️⃣ Empty and Clean
Remove food from fridges and freezers at least 48 hours before moving. Wipe shelves and drawers with mild detergent, then dry thoroughly to prevent mould. For cookers, clean trays and shelves so grease doesn’t mark other items in transit.
3️⃣ Defrost and Dry Freezers
Switch off freezers 24–48 hours before loading. Place towels around the base to catch melting ice. Once defrosted, dry the cavity carefully — lingering moisture can leak inside the van.
4️⃣ Secure Shelves and Doors
Take out glass shelves from fridges and freezers or tape them firmly. Use stretch-wrap or bungee cords to hold doors closed. Ovens and microwaves should have racks or plates secured with masking tape.
5️⃣ Disconnect Safely
Washing machines / dishwashers: Turn off water supply, disconnect hoses, and drain residual water into a bowl. If your washer has transit bolts, insert them to stabilise the drum.
Cookers: For gas models, arrange for a qualified engineer to disconnect and later reconnect. Electric hobs should be switched off at the mains before unplugging.
6️⃣ Protect Cables and Accessories
Coil leads neatly, tie with cable ties and tape them to the rear of the appliance. Put small parts — screws, trays, filter covers — in labelled freezer bags and tape those to the main body so nothing goes astray.
7️⃣ Wrap for Transport
Cover appliances with padded blankets or purpose-made covers. This prevents dents and scratches while sliding them on or off sack trucks. Our TT Removals crews carry wraps, straps and dollies for safe lifting.
8️⃣ Moving Day Tips
Keep heavy white goods near the exit ready for loading. Clear pathways so movers can wheel or carry them without obstacles. Never tilt fridges or freezers flat if you can avoid it — keeping them upright protects internal fluids.
9️⃣ Re-installation at Your New Home
After delivery, allow fridges and freezers to stand upright for a few hours before switching on (time depends on manufacturer). Re-connect hoses on washers, tighten taps and check for leaks. Test cookers only after a qualified fitter has confirmed connections.
1️⃣0️⃣ Why Professional Movers Make a Difference
Handling appliances is about more than muscle. It’s technique, protective gear and understanding how machines work. TT Removals Bradford supplies experienced teams, modern sack trucks and protective blankets to get white goods safely from kitchen to van to new address.
Final Word
Preparing appliances properly means less stress and no nasty surprises later. A few extra steps — defrosting, draining, securing shelves and using the right covers — protect both the machine and your new flooring.
For expert help with bulky items anywhere in Bradford, Shipley, Bingley or Halifax, call TT Removals Bradford today:
📞 07702 855343 | 🌐 ttremovals.com Yo