A washing machine is deceptively difficult to move. It is heavy, top-loaded with a metal drum that can swing loose during transport, and connected to water lines that need to be disconnected the right way. Learning how to move a washing machine properly comes down to two things most people skip: installing transit bolts and draining the hoses completely before the machine ever leaves its spot.
Skip either step and you risk a cracked drum, a leaking hose in the back of the truck, or a machine that no longer works once it is reconnected. Here is how to do it correctly from start to finish.
Why Washing Machines Need Special Prep Before a Move
Inside every front-load and many top-load washing machines, the drum is suspended on springs or shocks so it can spin freely during a wash cycle. That same freedom of movement becomes a liability during transport, since the drum can swing and slam against the cabinet walls with every bump in the road. Washing machine transit bolts exist specifically to lock the drum in place for the trip, and skipping them is one of the most common reasons a machine arrives damaged.
How to Move a Washing Machine Step by Step
1. Disconnect the Water Supply and Drain Hoses
Turn off the hot and cold water valves behind the machine, then disconnect both hoses. Run a quick cycle beforehand or tilt the machine slightly to drain any remaining water so it does not leak during transport.
2. Install the Transit Bolts
Most washing machines come with transit bolts, or shipping bolts, that were removed during the original installation. If you kept them, now is the time to reinstall them through the back panel to lock the drum in place. If you no longer have the originals, replacement transit bolts are available from the manufacturer and are worth ordering before moving day rather than moving the machine without them.
3. Secure the Power Cord and Any Loose Parts
Coil the power cord and tape it to the back of the machine so it cannot get caught or damaged. Remove any detergent drawers or loose trays that could shift or fall out during the move.
4. Load the Machine on a Dolly
A washing machine dolly, or a standard appliance dolly with straps, makes the difference between a controlled move and a back injury. Tilt the machine back carefully, slide the dolly underneath, and strap it securely before moving.
5. Transport Upright and Secure
Always transport a washing machine upright. Laying it on its side or back can cause internal components, including the drum and motor mounts, to shift out of alignment. Strap the machine against the wall of the truck so it cannot tip during transit.
6. Reconnect at the New Location
Once the machine is in place, remove the transit bolts before running the first wash cycle. Reconnect the hoses, check for leaks at each connection point, and level the machine using its adjustable feet so it does not vibrate or walk during use.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the transit bolts entirely, which is one of the most common causes of drum damage
- Forgetting to drain the hoses fully before disconnecting them
- Moving the machine without a dolly, increasing the risk of injury and floor damage
- Laying the machine on its side instead of keeping it upright throughout the move
- Running the first wash cycle without removing the transit bolts afterward
DIY vs. Hiring Movers for Appliance Moving
Moving a washing machine by yourself is possible with a dolly, a helper, and the steps above, but appliances are one of the more common sources of moving day injuries because of their awkward weight distribution. If you are already working with a crew for the rest of your move, folding the washing machine into your local moving service means it gets the same careful handling as the rest of your belongings. If you just need help with a single heavy item, labor-only moving covers the lifting without booking a full crew.
Tips for a Smooth Washing Machine Move
- Order replacement transit bolts ahead of time if you no longer have the originals
- Keep a towel handy for any residual water that drains out during disconnection
- Take a photo of the hose connections before disconnecting them so reconnection is straightforward
- Measure doorways and hallways in advance, since washing machines are often wider than they look
