Can you move a washer and dryer by yourself?

You can move your washer and dryer to a different area or a new home by yourself.

However, you must have the right tools and supplies to avoid damaging your washer and dryer while on the move. And it's also best to have at least one other person to help you with the entire process.

Pre-move preparation for your washer and dryer.

Before moving day, be sure you have everything you need on hand and complete the following steps:

1. Gather your moving supplies.

This project requires an appliance dolly (or hand truck) and a forearm forklift. These tools help make moving your bigger appliances easier. Use them to lift your washer and dryer off the ground or slide under them so you can tilt them back and transport them better.

Other moving supplies you'll need include:

• Blankets to protect your appliance
• Gliders/sliding pads so you can easily push them across the floor
• Stretch tape to keep your appliance secure during transport
• Protective sheets or cardboard boxes so they won't damage your floor

2. Clean your washer and dryer.

Start by running a standard cleaning cycle on your washer with a washing machine cleaner or chlorine bleach. 

Disconnect from the water supply and drain out the remaining water completely. Leave the washer door open so it can dry completely. You'll need to dry it for at least 24 hours before cleaning it. Also, complete these steps to remove the lint from your dryer.

Related: How to clean a washing machine.

3. Disconnect the appliances.

After you've turned off the water, shut off the power to your washer and dryer through your home's breaker. Unplug the cords and tape them to the back of the units. 

Remove and drain all water hoses thoroughly, and disconnect the dryer's venting. If you've got a gas dryer, you'll need a professional to disconnect the lines.

4. Secure your washer and dryer.

Your washer's drum has a suspension system that will keep it safe when you move it. However, it's still best to eliminate as much vibration as possible. This will help ensure it won't damage your appliance. Secure the drums with shipping bolts or foam.

Transporting your washer and dryer.

Moving your washer and dryer is the most challenging part of this process. Here's how to keep your appliances as safe and secure as possible to avoid possible damage:

1. Wrap your appliances.

Wrap stretch tape around the washer and dryer doors to prevent them from rattling and damaging them during the move. Then, wrap each unit with moving blankets so it remains cushioned. 

If other moving parts exist, secure them with tape or wrap them separately.

2. Put the washer and dryer on a dolly.

With the help of an assistant (or more), move each unit one at a time. Tilt your washer or dryer to slide a dolly or hand truck underneath it. Secure the washer or dryer with a strap so it doesn't slide off while moving it.

3. Load them properly onto the moving vehicle.

Load your washer and dryer onto the moving vehicle and position them at the back of the truck, nearest the cab. Make sure they're upright; transporting them on their sides, front, or back can damage them. 

Load all heavy items first — washer and dryer, fridge, pool table, etc. — before putting the lighter items inside.

Tips for a smooth washer and dryer move.

When moving, you want the entire process to be as efficient as possible to avoid damage or stress. Here are some tips to ensure a safe and smooth move for your washer and dryer:

Enlist help. 

Do you have friends or family who can help you with this project? Ask for their help. This will make the move go by faster. But more importantly, it's a good way to stay safe.

If you can't find people who can help, hire a professional. Search for furniture movers who can move big items to other areas of your home. Or, hire professional movers who can bring your washer and dryer to your new home. 

Protect your floors.

The last thing you want is to leave your house in poor condition, even if you're moving to a better home. Before moving your large or heavy appliances, protect your floors with cardboard, carpet film, or plywood.

When you've arrived in your new home, do the same thing. Protect your brand-new floors to prevent damage.

Measure tight spaces.

Doorways and narrow hallways can make moving large appliances and furniture difficult. It's best to measure your appliances and the width of those tight spaces so you can plan how to maneuver around them.

How much does it cost to hire movers to move your washer and dryer?

Your moving costs will vary depending on what kind of services you need. 

Are you planning to relocate your washer and dryer to a new home? If so, you may need a full-service move. This often includes packing, loading, and driving your items to a new location. Some movers also charge additional fees for special items, such as pianos and pool tables.

Relocating your washer and dryer to a new location will cost more than moving them to a different area within your house. 

Get estimates from local movers to determine how much you should expect to pay.

Need help? Hire a professional mover today.

Don't sweat the tough stuff. Hire a moving company to help you move your washer and dryer. They can also help you move your other appliances, furniture, and belongings.

Download the Thumbtack app to get free cost estimates from top-rated pros near you.