Are you planning to move your refrigerator? Or maybe you are re-arranging your kitchen? Then you are facing an unusual challenge: moving your refrigerator. Moving company We know better than anyone that this is not a job that you can just do. That is why we have put together this guide for you. We take you step by step through the process, whether you have a compact refrigerator or an American giant.

The key to successful refrigerator moving

Let’s face it: preparation is half the battle. Especially when it comes to moving such a colossal appliance as a refrigerator. So, where do we start?

Empty the Fridge: A Necessary First Step

You might be thinking, "That's obvious, right?" But you'd be surprised how many people overlook this. Why is it so important?

Weight: An empty refrigerator is lighter than a full one. Makes sense, right?
No mess: Imagine a bottle of milk falling over while you were moving. Not exactly fun, right?
Your food stays good: No one wants spoiled food after a move.

“Start with an empty refrigerator and you're halfway to a successful move.” - Our experienced mover Jan

Defrosting: A Crucial Step for Refrigerators with Freezer Compartment

Does your refrigerator have a freezer compartment? Then defrosting is a must. Why? Well, imagine you are moving ice. What happens then? That's right, it melts. And where does that melt water go? Exactly, everywhere you don't want it. Moving a refrigerator is very easy with Verhuisbedrijf Direct.

Here are some defrosting tips before you move your refrigerator:

Unplug the power cord.
Remove everything from the freezer.
Place towels around the refrigerator.
Leave the door open. This keeps the refrigerator clean and prevents it from smelling.
Be patient, don't force anything.

Secure loose parts: Prevent damage during transport

Did you know that most refrigerator damage is caused by loose parts that rattle during transport? Let's prevent that:

Secure the drawers of your refrigerator with tape.
Remove glass shelves and pack them separately.
Do you have an ice maker? Fix it or take it out.

Element	What to do?
Glass shelves	Wrapping as a precious gift
Drawers	Taping like your life depends on it
Door bins	Fix or remove
Ice cream maker	Fasten or send on vacation for a while

The right technique for moving your refrigerator

Now that your fridge is ready for the big trip, it's time for action. But how do you do it without ruining your back or demolishing your door frames?

Using a Hand Truck: The Smart Way to Transport a Refrigerator

Let’s face it: no one wants to get a hernia moving a refrigerator. That’s why a hand truck is your best friend in this adventure. Why?

Your back will thank you: A hand truck takes over the heavy work.
Stability is key: A refrigerator on a hand truck is more stable than one in your arms.
Maneuvering like a pro: Imagine slaloming through the hallway with a refrigerator. With a hand truck you become a real F1 driver.

How do you use such a hand truck?

Tilt the refrigerator gently. Think of a tango with a very large dance partner.
Slide the hand truck underneath. Smooth operator!
Secure everything with tension belts. Safety first!
Lift up and drive away. You are now officially a refrigerator moving expert.

“Using a hand truck is not only smarter, it also makes you the hero of the move.” - Our moving expert Lisa

Moving a Refrigerator Upright: Why is it so Important?

Imagine treating your refrigerator like a sleeping giant. You don’t want to wake it up by turning it on its side. Why? Well, inside that refrigerator is a delicate system of oil and coolant. If you tip the refrigerator over, that system goes haywire.

The compressor: This is the heart of your refrigerator. If the oil leaks out of here, it can cause a lot of damage.
Door seals: These can warp if the fridge is left on its side for too long. And no one wants a fridge that doesn't close properly, right?

If you do have to tilt, keep it to a maximum of 45 degrees. Think of a refrigerator taking a deep bow, not one taking an afternoon nap.

Transporting a refrigerator lying down: Only if there is absolutely no other option

Sometimes you can’t avoid it: your refrigerator has to lie down. It’s like asking your grandma to do a somersault – not ideal, but sometimes necessary. If you find yourself in this situation, follow these guidelines:

Choose the correct side: Lay the refrigerator on the side without pipes. Usually this is the side opposite the door hinges.
Protect the outside: Wrap your refrigerator like an expensive gift. Use blankets or cardboard. Do this standing up.
Lock it in: You don't want your refrigerator to go crowd surfing in the moving van.
Waiting time after arrival: Let your refrigerator sit upright for at least 24 hours before turning it on. Give it time to recover from its adventure. So leave the refrigerator alone for a while!

NB: Some manufacturers are stricter than a strict teacher when it comes to recumbent transport. Always check the manual for your specific model.

Special Considerations for Different Types of Refrigerators

Not all refrigerators are the same. Some are like divas that need extra attention. Let's take a look at these special cases.

Moving an American fridge: Additional challenges

Moving an American fridge is like moving a small elephant. It’s big, it’s heavy, and it won’t just fit through anywhere. Here are some tips:

Measure everything twice: You don't want to discover halfway through that your refrigerator won't fit through the door.
Call in the reinforcements: This is not a one-man show. Gather at least three strong helpers.
Doors off?: Some models allow you to remove the doors. It makes things a bit more manageable.
Water pipe alert: Does your refrigerator have a water connection? Don't forget to disconnect it. Unless you are planning to install an indoor pool.

Moving a built-in refrigerator: Caution is advised

Moving a built-in refrigerator is like dismantling a bomb. Every step must be careful and considered. Follow these steps:

Read the manual: Yes, really. These refrigerators often have specific disassembly instructions.
Loosen everything: Make sure the refrigerator is completely free from its casing. It is not a tooth you are pulling out.
Protect the finish: Built-in refrigerators are often as vulnerable as a teenager's skin. Protect them well.
Check hidden connections: Be aware of water or electricity lines that may still be connected.

After moving: Correct installation and commissioning

Congratulations! You have successfully moved your refrigerator. But we are not quite there yet. Now comes the finer points: installation and commissioning.

Choosing the right place for your refrigerator

Choosing the right spot for your refrigerator is like finding the perfect spot for your favorite armchair. It has to be right. Consider:

Ventilation: Your refrigerator needs air to breathe. Give it at least 2 inches of space on the sides and 4 inches at the back.
A flat surface: A crooked refrigerator is like the leaning Tower of Pisa, but less charming.
Out of the sun: Unless you want your refrigerator to work extra hard, keep it out of direct sunlight.
Door space: Make sure the doors can open all the way. You want to be able to get to all your food, right?

Waiting time for commissioning

After all that dragging and lifting, your refrigerator needs a well-earned break. Give it one. Why? The oil in the compressor needs to flow back to where it belongs.

Transported upright: Wait at least 1 hour. Time for a cup of coffee!
Transported lying down: Wait at least 24 hours. Perfect time for a Netflix marathon.

"Patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to getting your relocated refrigerator up and running." - Our refrigeration technician Peter

Cleaning and starting up

Before you put your refrigerator back into use, a thorough cleaning is in order. It's like a spa day for your refrigerator:

Clean everything: Use a mild soap solution. Your refrigerator deserves the best.
Dry everything well: Moisture is the enemy of a fresh refrigerator.
Put all the parts back: Like a puzzle, but easier.
Plug the power cord into the wall socket: The moment of truth!
Wait until the temperature is right: This may take a few hours. More time for Netflix!

Common mistakes when moving a refrigerator

Even with the best preparation, things can go wrong. Let’s look at some classic blunders and how to avoid them.

Underestimation of weight and size

Many people underestimate how heavy and large a refrigerator actually is. It’s not a toaster on steroids, people! This underestimation can lead to:

Back pain: Your back is not a crane. Treat it with respect.
Dents in your refrigerator: Nobody wants a refrigerator that looks like it lost a boxing match.
Damage to your home: Doorposts are not enemies to be conquered.

Tip: Measure everything carefully. And if in doubt, seek professional help. Better safe than a collection of bruises.

Failure to protect floors and door frames

Your floors and door frames are innocent bystanders in this moving adventure. Protect them!

Lay down protective materials: Treat your floor like a red carpet for your refrigerator.
Use corner protectors: Doorposts deserve some love too.
Remove doors if possible: Sometimes the best defense is a good offense.

Ignoring the manual

Your refrigerator manual is not just a book of random words. It is your guide, your mentor, your refrigerator-moving guru.

Read it: Yeah, really. It can be boring, but it’s less boring than a broken refrigerator.
Follow the instructions: The manufacturer really knows what he is talking about.
When in doubt, look up: Many manuals can now be found online.

Advice: Treat the manual as your best friend during this move. It will not let you down.

Moving company Direct is happy to help you

Finally, remember: moving a refrigerator isn’t rocket science, but it does require some caution and planning. With these tips from our team at Verhuisbedrijf Direct, you’ll be well prepared. And don’t forget: if it all becomes too much, we’re here to help. Because moving a refrigerator is something we do together!

Request a free quote

You can easily request a free quote via our website. We will process it immediately and contact you as soon as possible!

Moving a refrigerator: how to ensure safe transportation of your refrigerator