How to Safely Move a Refrigerator: Expert Tips

Moving a refrigerator is no easy task. These heavy, cumbersome appliances require careful planning and preparation to ensure they arrive at your new home in perfect working order. At Flex Déménagement, Montreal’s trusted moving company, we specialize in safely transporting large appliances like fridges and freezers. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you move your fridge like a pro.

Preparation Is Key

Step 1: Measure Everything

Start by measuring your refrigerator and the pathways it will need to traverse. This includes:

• The height, width, and depth of the fridge.
• The dimensions of doorways, stairwells, and hallways.

Remove doors, handrails, or any other obstacles if necessary to create a clear path. Proper measurements help avoid last-minute surprises during the move.

Step 2: Gather Necessary Tools

To make the process easier and safer, gather these essential tools and supplies:

• Moving dolly
• Moving straps
• Moving blankets
• Tape measure
• Cleaning supplies (baking soda, sponges, towels)
• Floor protectors (furniture sliders or rubber mats)

Having the right equipment ensures the job gets done efficiently and minimizes the risk of damage.

Step 3: Empty and Defrost Your Fridge

A clean and empty refrigerator is much easier to move. Here’s what to do:

1. Remove all food and drinks: Use coolers for perishables or give them away if you’re moving long-distance.
2. Clean the interior: Use a mixture of warm water and baking soda to eliminate odors and bacteria.
3. Defrost for 24 hours: Place towels around the fridge to catch water from melting ice. Be sure to empty and clean the evaporator pan.
4. Dry thoroughly: Leave the fridge doors open for at least 24 hours to prevent mold and mildew growth.

Securing Your Refrigerator

Step 4: Remove and Pack Detachable Parts

Take out glass shelves, drawers, and any loose parts. Wrap them in moving blankets or bubble wrap to prevent breakage during transit.

Step 5: Protect the Appliance

Wrap the fridge in moving blankets to safeguard its exterior from scratches and dents. Secure the doors with a rope or moving strap to keep them closed.

Step 6: Protect Your Floors

Refrigerators are heavy and can easily damage floors. Use furniture sliders or rubber mats under the fridge to glide it out without scratching the surface. Avoid dragging the fridge directly on the floor.

The Moving Process

Step 7: Use a Moving Dolly

A dolly is essential for safely transporting your fridge. Here’s how to use it effectively:

1. Tilt the fridge slightly backward.
2. Slide the dolly underneath, ensuring it is centered and balanced.
3. Secure the fridge to the dolly using moving straps.

Step 8: Navigate Carefully

Take your time maneuvering the fridge through doorways and down stairwells. Keep the dolly at a 45-degree angle when using stairs, with one person guiding from below and another steadying from above. Use ramps for easy loading onto the moving truck.

Step 9: Keep It Upright

Always transport the fridge in an upright position to avoid damaging the compressor and coolant system. If you must lay it on its side, ensure it’s positioned opposite the compressor lines and let it stand upright for 24 hours before plugging it back in.

After the Move

Once your fridge is in its new home:

• Wait before plugging it in: Allow the fridge to sit upright for 12–24 hours to let internal fluids settle.
• Reassemble shelves and drawers: Place everything back in its original position.
• Monitor cooling: It may take up to a day for the fridge to reach its optimal temperature.

Call the Experts for Stress-Free Moving

Moving a fridge doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With careful preparation and the right tools, you can handle it yourself. However, for a truly hassle-free experience, trust the experts at Flex Déménagement. Our professional movers in Montreal are equipped to handle even the toughest appliance moves, ensuring your fridge arrives safely and in perfect condition.

Ready to move? Contact Flex Déménagement today for a free quote! Let us make your move seamless and stress-free.