Washers and dryers are among the most common large appliances people move, but they require specific preparation to avoid damage during transport. A washing machine is particularly vulnerable because its drum is suspended on springs and shock absorbers that allow it to spin at high speed during use. Without proper securing, the drum will slam around inside the cabinet during transport, destroying internal components. This guide covers the complete process for both appliances.
Start by running an empty cycle with hot water and a cup of white vinegar to clean residual water and detergent from the system. After the cycle completes, turn off both the hot and cold water supply valves behind the machine. Disconnect the fill hoses from the valves (have towels ready for residual water). Pull the machine forward to access the drain hose and disconnect it from the standpipe or utility sink. Tilt the machine slightly forward to drain any remaining water from the pump and hoses into a shallow pan. The most critical step is installing transit bolts. These are large bolts that lock the drum in place inside the cabinet, preventing it from moving during transport. Most washers come with transit bolts and a wrench, often stored in a bag taped inside the lid or in the original packaging. If you no longer have them, order replacements from the manufacturer or an appliance parts retailer. The bolts insert through holes in the back panel of the machine. Without transit bolts, even a short drive can cause $500 or more in damage to the suspension, drum bearings, and shock absorbers. This single step is the difference between a successful washer move and a broken machine.
Dryers are simpler to prepare than washers because they lack a water system and suspended drum. For electric dryers, unplug the power cord from the outlet. For gas dryers, turn off the gas supply valve behind the machine, then disconnect the flexible gas line using an adjustable wrench. Cap the open gas line with a brass cap and use a gas leak detection solution or soapy water to verify the cap is sealed. If you are not comfortable working with gas connections, hire a plumber or appliance technician for $50 to $100. Disconnect the dryer vent hose from the wall duct and from the back of the dryer. Clean lint from the vent hose and the vent connection on the back of the machine. Tape the power cord to the back of the dryer so it does not drag on the ground during transport. Tape the dryer door shut with painters tape to prevent it from swinging open. For stackable washer-dryer units, the dryer must be removed from the top of the washer before moving. These are connected by a stacking bracket that unbolts with standard tools. Never attempt to move a stacked unit as one piece.
An appliance dolly (also called a hand truck) with a strap is the right tool for moving washers and dryers. Standard furniture dollies are not rated for the weight and lack the securing strap needed to prevent tipping. A washer weighs 150 to 250 pounds and a dryer weighs 100 to 175 pounds, so each requires at least two people to handle safely. Tip the appliance back slightly while your helper slides the dolly plate underneath. Secure the appliance to the dolly with the built-in strap. Keep the appliance tilted slightly back against the dolly frame and move slowly. For stairs, always go down first with the dolly and appliance facing you, using the stairs to control the descent one step at a time while your helper stabilizes from above. Going up stairs, push from behind while the helper guides from the top. Never rush on stairs. In the moving truck, position washers and dryers upright against the truck wall. Strap them to the wall anchor points to prevent tipping during transit. Placing a washer on its side or back is acceptable for short distances if transit bolts are installed, but upright is always preferred.
At your new home, position the washer and dryer in the laundry area before connecting anything. Make sure the machines are level using the adjustable feet on the bottom. An unlevel washer will vibrate excessively and walk across the floor during spin cycles. Use a bubble level across the top in both directions and adjust the feet until level. Connect the washer fill hoses to the hot and cold supply valves (hot on the left, cold on the right when facing the back of the machine). Connect the drain hose to the standpipe or utility sink. Remove the transit bolts from the back of the washer and save them for future moves. Some machines come with plastic caps to cover the transit bolt holes. Run an empty test cycle to check for leaks at all connection points. For electric dryers, plug in the power cord. Verify the outlet matches your plug type. Older homes may have 3-prong outlets while newer dryers use 4-prong plugs. Adapter cords are available for $15 to $25 at hardware stores. For gas dryers, connect the flexible gas line, open the supply valve, and check all connections with leak detection solution before running the dryer. Connect the vent hose securely to both the dryer and the wall duct using metal clamps rather than tape.
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Transit bolts are large bolts that lock a washing machine drum in place during transport. Without them, the drum slams around inside the cabinet and can destroy the suspension, bearings, and shock absorbers. Replacement transit bolts cost $10 to $30 while drum repair costs $300 to $500.
A washer can be laid on its side for short distances if transit bolts are installed. However, upright transport is always preferred. If you must lay it down, place it on the side opposite the detergent dispenser and keep the time on its side as short as possible.
Turn off the gas supply valve, disconnect the flexible gas line with a wrench, and cap the open gas line. Test the cap with soapy water for leaks. If you are not comfortable with gas connections, hire a plumber for $50 to $100. Never use a gas dryer without checking all connections for leaks after reinstallation.
Statistics and cost figures are based on industry averages and publicly available data, provided for informational purposes.
Data last reviewed: March 2026. Learn about our data
