Preparing Your Appliances for a Move – Dos and Don’ts

Moving to a new home is an exciting adventure, but the process of packing up your life and relocating comes with its fair share of challenges. One crucial aspect that often requires meticulous attention is preparing your household appliances for the journey. Each appliance has unique packing needs.

However, moving appliances often requires extra preparation. These tips will guarantee that your appliances arrive at their new home undamaged and ready to use.

Do’s – How to Pack Appliances for a Safe Move

Moving is a significant undertaking, and ensuring your appliances are move-ready is paramount. By preparing properly, you minimise the risk of damage, as well as make relocation simple and hassle-free. These essential household items need to be protected not just from cracks and scratches but also from damage.

1. Cleaning and Disinfecting

Before you start the packing process, take the time for deep cleaning and disinfecting your appliances. This step is particularly crucial for items like refrigerators and ovens, where lingering odours or food residue can lead to unpleasant surprises. A combination of mild soap and water works wonders. Not only does this contribute to a hygienic move, but it also prevents the growth of mould and bacteria during transportation.

2. Securing Loose Parts

Appliances often have detachable parts that are crucial for their functionality. Take a meticulous approach to securing these loose components. For fridges, this might include removing and securing shelves and drawers. In the case of microwaves, ensure the turntable is well-padded and protected. By doing so, you reduce the risk of these parts getting damaged or causing harm during transit.

3. Proper Packaging

Invest in quality packaging materials. Bubble wrap, packing paper, and sturdy boxes are your best friends when it comes to shielding your appliances from potential damage. Fragile items like glass stove tops or microwave doors require extra care. Consider double boxing for added protection, and always use specialised boxes for electronics.

4. Defrosting and Draining

For appliances with freezers, such as refrigerators and standalone freezers, defrosting is a crucial step. Plan to allow enough time for the defrosting process, preventing water damage during transit. Remember to drain excess water properly to avoid any leaks. It might seem like an inconvenience, but it’s a small price to pay for ensuring your appliances survive the journey intact.

5. Securing Moving Parts

Take note of any moving parts within your appliances and ensure they are properly secured. Washing machines, for instance, have a drum that can move during transit if not properly immobilised. Secure these moving parts with manufacturer-approved methods to prevent internal damage and maintain peak performance.

6. Labelling Cords and Connections

Moving involves a fair amount of disassembly, especially when it comes to appliances. Take the time to label cords and connections. This small but significant step will save you a headache during the unpacking and setup phase. A simple labelling system using colour-coded stickers or tags can make the reinstallation process a breeze.

7. Hiring Professional Movers

Consider using a local house removal company for box delivery and packing, especially for larger and more delicate appliances. Expert movers have the necessary supplies and the skills to handle these items carefully. Even though doing it yourself might seem like a more cost-effective choice, there could be extra expenses involved due to the risks and potential damages. 

Don’ts of organising your appliances for your house move

It is important to avoid some common mistakes when preparing your appliances for moving. These missteps may cause damage to the appliance, requiring expensive repairs or a replacement. Taking the appropriate measures is necessary to ensure a safe move. According to removal experts, you should avoid:

1. Ignoring Manufacturer’s Guidelines

Manufacturers provide guidelines for a reason. Neglecting these recommendations may appear like a quick fix, but there may be unforeseen consequences. Make sure you’re moving your appliances in a way that keeps their functionality by following disassembly and packaging instructions.

2. Overlooking Secure Packaging

Skimping on packaging materials or hastily throwing items into boxes is a recipe for disaster. Overlooking secure packaging increases the risk of damage during transit. Invest the time and resources into proper packaging to safeguard your appliances.

3. Neglecting to Power Down

Before you start the packing process, power down and disconnect your appliances. Neglecting this step not only poses safety risks but can also result in damage to electronic components. Give your appliances the opportunity to cool down before the big move.

4. Using Improper Cleaning Agents

When cleaning your appliances, stick to mild, appliance-friendly cleaning agents. Harsh chemicals can damage surfaces and lead to discolouration. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about maintaining the longevity and functionality of your appliances.

5. Rushing the Defrosting Process

Defrosting takes time, and rushing this process can lead to water-related issues. Give your freezer ample time to defrost, and ensure all excess water is drained. Patience is key in this step to avoid potential leaks during transit.

6. Forgetting to Secure Moving Parts

The internals of your appliances are just as crucial as the exteriors. Forgetting to secure moving parts, like the drum in a washing machine or the turntable in a microwave, can result in internal damage that might not be immediately apparent but can affect the appliance’s functionality over time.

7. Neglecting Professional Assistance

Moving is a complex task, and sometimes, professional help is the best option. If you don’t have the time or the necessary tools to organise your appliances for the move, you should use the services of a removal company. Professional movers have the experience and tools to ensure the safe transportation of appliances, giving you peace of mind during the move.

Takeaways

• Packing your household appliances with care guarantees their safety and efficiency.
• It is recommended to use high-quality packaging materials. 
• Extra protection can be added to moving boxes by cushioning them with bubble wrap or packing paper.
• Always pay attention to the manufacturer’s disassembly and packaging instructions.
• If you are not sure that you can provide a safe move for your appliances, trust the removal experts in your area.