Many appliances require servicing, disconnecting and preparation before moving. Upon request, your local Bekins agent will gladly schedule a third party to provide these services, though you may be able to perform some of the requirements yourself.
Refrigerators
- Turn off and dry out: The refrigerator should be turned off 48 hours prior to moving – also, open the door to ensure that the inside of the refrigerator is dry.
- Secure: The shelves should be secured inside the appliance or removed and wrapped separately. The electric cord should be taped to the back of the refrigerator to avoid injury during the move.
- Clean: Thoroughly clean both the inside and the outside of the appliance. Baking soda is a useful tool for removing unpleasant odors inside the refrigerator.
Freezer
- Defrost: It’s important that the freezer is completely defrosted prior to the move. The defrost process depends on the size of the freezer, but definitely allow at least a few hours to complete the process.
- Disconnect the ice maker: Ensure that the ice maker is disconnected from the water line.
Dishwasher
- Unplug: Ensure that the dishwasher is disconnected from any power source.
- Allow dry time: Leave the dishwasher door open so any remaining moisture or water has the time to dry.
- Disconnect: It might be helpful to hire a third-party service provider to help disconnect the dishwasher from the water source. Regardless, make sure the hose, inlet line and water valve are all disconnected.
Oven
- Unplug or disconnect: A third-party service provider would also be useful to help with over preparation, especially if it’s a gas-powered oven. The oven should be unplugged and turned off or shut off from the gas line.
- Secure all parts: Make sure that all removable parts (burner pans, grates, shelves inside the oven) are secured. It’s easier to detach completely and pack in a separate box.
- Clean: If time allows, clean both the inside and outside of the oven.
Washing Machine
- Disconnect and Drain: The washing machine needs to be completely drained no matter what time of year your move occurs. Additionally, all hoses should be removed from the machine.
- Unplug: Just like the refrigerator, the cord for the washing machine should be taped to the back of the appliance to avoid injury.
- Secure parts: The washer drum must be secured prior to a move using shipping bolts. Your Bekins agent can assist you with this if you’re unsure.
- Dry out: Leave the lid of the washing machine open to allow the appliance to completely dry.
Dryer
- Unplug and disconnect: The dryer is another appliance that could benefit from the service of a third-party provider, especially if it’s gas-powered. Nonetheless, the dryer should be disconnected from the power source and the cord should be taped to the back (if applicable).
- Remove and store: The vent hose should be removed from the dryer and stored in a separate carton.
