How to Move a Washer and Dryer: Safe Transport Tips for Your Appliances

Whether you're relocating across town or into a new apartment, moving a washer and dryer can be one of the most challenging parts of the process. These machines are bulky, heavy, and sensitive to movement if not secured properly.

At Affinity Moving, we help homeowners and renters in Minneapolis and the surrounding areas relocate their laundry appliances with care. If you're wondering how to transport a washer and dryer safely and avoid damage or injury, this guide has you covered.

Can You Lay a Washer on Its Back?

One of the most common questions we hear is: Can you lay a washer on its back when moving?

Answer: It’s not recommended.

While you can lay a washer on its back in certain situations, it should be a last resort. Washing machines have sensitive internal components, especially the drum and suspension system. Laying the unit down risks:

• Dislodging or damaging the drum
• Causing internal leaks or cracks
• Shifting components that affect performance

Always keep your washer upright during transport if possible. If laying it down is necessary due to truck space or stairs, consult with your movers first and make sure it is securely padded and protected.

How to Transport a Washer and Dryer: Step-by-Step Guide

Whether you're doing it yourself or hiring movers, here’s the safest method for moving a washer and dryer.

1. Disconnect the Washer and Dryer

Before anything can be moved, the appliances need to be fully disconnected from utilities.

• Unplug from power
• Turn off water valves to the washer
• Detach hot and cold water hoses and drain any remaining water
• Remove the drain hose from the wall
• Unplug or disconnect gas line for gas dryers (consider hiring a pro)

Tip: Keep all hoses and cords in a labeled bag and tape it to the back of each appliance.

2. Secure the Washer Drum

If you’re moving a front-load washer, you must secure the drum before transport. These drums are suspended by internal shocks and springs. Moving without support can damage the suspension.

• Use the original shipping bolts to lock the drum in place
• If you no longer have them, contact the manufacturer or purchase replacements
• Do not skip this step for front-loaders

Top-load washers typically have fewer issues but should still be kept upright.

3. Clean and Dry Everything

Clean the lint trap in the dryer, wipe down the washer drum, and let everything air dry. This prevents mildew, smells, and water leakage during the move.

4. Use a Washer Machine Dolly

To protect your back and your appliances, use a washer machine dolly or heavy-duty appliance dolly with straps.

• Slide the dolly under the machine carefully
• Use straps to secure the washer or dryer to the dolly
• Keep the appliance upright while moving

Tip: Have a friend or professional help you with stairs or narrow doorways.

5. Load With Care

When loading into a truck:

• Place the machines upright and against a solid wall
• Use moving blankets to cushion the sides
• Strap them down to prevent shifting in transit
• Do not stack items on top of the washer or dryer

6. Transport and Unload

Once secured, drive carefully to avoid sudden bumps or sharp turns. At your destination, unload using the dolly, then reconnect utilities as needed.

Additional Tips for Moving Washer and Dryer Units

• Label cords and hoses clearly so you don’t mix them up
• Keep shipping manuals or take photos of connections before unhooking
• Measure doorways and hallways to ensure the machines fit
• Avoid tilting more than necessary to prevent imbalance in the drum
• Allow 24 hours before using a front-load washer after transport to let fluids settle

Should You Move a Washer and Dryer Yourself?

If you are moving just down the hall or into a new unit in the same building, you may be able to handle your own washer and dryer move with the right dolly and a helping hand.

However, for most people, hiring professionals is the safer and more efficient choice. At Affinity Moving, we offer:

• Expert appliance handling
• Appliance dolly use
• Moving blankets and straps
• Disassembly and reassembly support
• Transport in secure, padded trucks

We make washer and dryer moving part of a stress-free experience.

How to Move Washer Dryer Units in Tight Spaces

For apartment dwellers or homeowners with narrow hallways:

• Remove doors or door frames if necessary
• Use furniture sliders to adjust angles
• Measure first and plan a safe path
• Use blankets to protect walls and machines
• Go slowly to avoid injury or damage

What If You Have a Stackable Washer Dryer?

Stacked units should be separated before moving.

• Unplug everything
• Remove the stacking kit if applicable
• Move the dryer and washer individually
• Use a dolly and a helper for each machine

If your washer dryer is a combo unit that cannot be separated, consult your mover. These units are heavier and require careful balance.

FAQs: Moving a Washer and Dryer

Can you lay a washer on its side?

It’s better to avoid this. Keep washers upright to protect the drum and internal components.

How do you transport a washer and dryer long distance?

Use shipping bolts for the washer, disconnect all parts, and secure both appliances upright in a truck with straps and padding.

Can you move a washer without shipping bolts?

It’s risky. The drum can swing and damage internal parts. Always reinstall the shipping bolts if possible.

How much do washers and dryers weigh?

Washers weigh 150 to 200 lbs. Dryers weigh about 100 to 150 lbs. Stackable units may weigh more.

Do movers move washers and dryers?

Yes. Affinity Moving provides safe and insured appliance moving services, including washer and dryer transport.

Call Affinity Moving for Help With Washer and Dryer Moving

Don’t risk injury or appliance damage. Let Affinity Moving handle your washer and dryer move with care.

📞 Call us at 612-416-6640

📍 Serving Minneapolis, St. Paul, Edina, Bloomington, and surrounding suburbs

🌐 Visit our website to get a free moving estimate

We move homes, apartments, and your appliances safely and professionally.