Real Talk: Moving Appliances and Costs
The costs involved in moving appliances depends on many factors, including the distance of the move, the type of appliance, the service you need, and whether you choose to handle it yourself or hire the pros. Let’s break down the costs so you can get a better understanding of it all:
1. Moving Company Fees for Appliances
If you hire a moving company to handle your entire move this should include the appliances. The size and weight of the appliances usually add to your overall moving bill total as they are not simple to move from place to place. Most moving companies charge either by the hour or by weight/volume of what they are moving.
Local Moves:
- Hourly Rates: Moving companies charge by the hour for local moves. Depending on the number of movers, the equipment needed, and the complexity of the move, you should expect to pay between $90 and $170 per hour.
- Special Fees for Appliances: Moving large appliances (like refrigerators, washers, and dryers and more usually adds an additional charge of $75 to $150 per appliance. These fees include the disassembly, loading, and reassembling of all your appliances. They get them up and running.
- Overall Cost: For a local move, the total cost of moving appliances can range from $300 to $600 or more on average, depending on how many appliances you’re moving and what you really need.
Cross Country Moves:
- Distance and Weight Charges: Long-distance moving companies charge based on the weight of your items and the distance being traveled rather than hourly. The cost of moving big appliances long-distance will vary but expect to pay $300 to $1,000 or more per appliance, depending on the distance. Think that these professionals are doing the hauling and all the work to get your things there and working.
- Loading and Unloading: Some companies charge extra for the loading and unloading of your appliances, which can add $300 to the total.
- Delivery and Unpacking: Additional charges for delivery, installation, and unpacking could also apply; make sure to ask ahead what is included.
2. DIY Moving Costs
If you’re planning to move your bug home appliances yourself, you’ll save money on costs, but be sure to account for other expenses. Sometimes cheaper isn’t actually cheaper. Here is a breakdown to simplify things:
- Truck Rental: You will need a truck to transport your appliances unless you can borrow from a friend. Renting a moving truck can cost between $70 and $100 per day, plus gas costs. For long-distance moves, truck rentals can range from $300 to $1,000, depending on the size of the truck and the distance and time you need it.
- Moving Equipment: You will need to rent equipment like dollies, straps, and appliance carts to keep safe. This usually costs $20 to $50 per day per item.
- Packing Materials: Moving appliances means you will need packing materials to protect them during the move. Expect to spend at least $50 to $100 on materials and maybe more.
- Helper Costs: If you need to hire additional help, you will pay around $20 to $50 per hour per person, depending on your location. If these people are your friends, consider buying just beer and pizza. It will take two or three people to move large appliances safely.
3. Special Appliances
Some appliances require extra care, special handling, or disconnection, all of which can add to moving costs.
- Refrigerators & Freezers: Moving a refrigerator or freezer means defrosting, disconnecting water lines, and making sure the appliance is ready for transport. You can unplug them yourself, but if you haven’t expect extra charges ranging from $50 to $200.
- Washing Machines and Dryers: Disconnecting the water lines and securing the machines down for the ride might cost $50 to $150 per appliance, depending on your movers. They also need to be reassembled and set up.
- Dishwashers: Dishwashers need special disconnection and sealing to prevent water leaks, which can cost an additional $50 to $100 for moving. Don’t go at this alone or you are likely to break your appliance.
- Ovens and Stoves: Depending on the mover, disconnecting gas or electric stoves and securing them safely for transit can cost $50 to $150.
- Hot Tubs and Large Things: Some very large or odd-shaped and heavy items, like hot tubs or commercial-sized fridges, may require other special movers, and costs start at $500 and up.
Tips for Moving Major Appliances From Our Crew
It’s important to prepare properly and take the right steps to minimize the costs of moving appliances and ensure they arrive safely at your new home.
1. Measure and Plan Ahead
Before moving day, measure the appliances and the doorways, hallways, and stairs at your current and new homes. This will help you understand if there are any tight corners that could make moving the appliance difficult. If necessary, consider removing doors or windows to give you more space, and do this ahead of time.
2. Clean and Defrost Appliances
Unplug the appliances at least 24 hours before the move for refrigerators and freezers to allow it to defrost and dry out. This will prevent water from leaking during the move and protect the appliance from potential water damage.
Make sure to clean the interior there is no time like the present to avoid any smells or mold.
For washing machines, drain all the water and secure the drum to prevent it from moving inside the appliance during transport.
3. Disconnect Appliances
If you’re moving things like your washer, dryer, oven, or dishwasher, disconnect them properly ahead of time. You may need to hire a plumber or electrician to disconnect gas or water lines for appliances that need it. Moving companies may not be approved to handle these disconnections, so check ahead.
4. Hire Professional Movers for Heavy or Special Appliances
If you have really large or heavy appliances think about hiring professional movers with experience handling these items. They have the right tools and know how to move the appliance without damage to themselves or the appliance. They can help with the setup at the new location, including reconnecting water, gas, or electrical lines too making it worth it all around.
4. Disassembly and Reassembly
For some appliances, you might need to disassemble parts before moving. Plan to reassemble the appliance at your new home and check that it works properly. If you aren’t sure how to do this alone discuss ahead with your movers to avoid extra costs.
5. Consider Insurance
Appliances aren’t cheap, so it’s a good idea to consider insurance for your move, especially if you’re moving expensive items. Many moving companies offer insurance and appliance coverage, but it’s important to review the terms.
Final Thoughts on Moving Appliances and More
Moving appliances can be one of the most challenging and expensive parts of a move, but with planning and prep, you can do it! Whether you hire professional movers from Pricing Van Lines to get it done right, or handle the move yourself, consider the size and weight of the items, plan ahead for disconnection and setup, and be safe to avoid damage and injuries. Prices vary depending on what you need so take everything into account!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to move a refrigerator on average?
The cost to move a refrigerator depends on distance, service, and any additional services needed like disconnection. For a local move, expect to pay anywhere from $75 to $150 for the appliance alone, while long-distance moves may cost between $200 to $1,000 or more for everything.
Can I move appliances myself, or should I hire someone?
The difficulty of handling bulky, heavy items makes hiring the pro simply the right choice. If you’re comfortable with the task, DIY moving can save you money, but consider all the additional equipment costs invovled. Professional movers have the equipment and expertise to handle appliances safely, minimizing the risk of damage so this is always the best choice.
What should I do if my washing machine is too heavy to move?
If your washing machine is too heavy to move by yourself, renting or buying an appliance dolly is a good idea or hiring professional movers that have one.
How should I prepare my washing machine for a move?
Before moving your washing machine, drain all water from the hoses and inside. Secure the drum with bolts so it won’t move around. Use blankets to wrap the washer and protect it from damage during the transit. Make sure the disconnection was done properly to avoid leaks.
Do moving companies offer insurance?
Many affordable movers offer insurance or damage coverage as well as special coverage for appliances during the move. This could be included as part of a general moving insurance package or as an add-on service. If you’re moving expensive appliances, it’s recommended to consider getting additional insurance for peace of mind.
