Appliance movers charge $100–$200 per appliance. With an appliance dolly and a 5x8 utility trailer, you can do it yourself for under $50 total.
What you'll need
- Appliance hand truck / dolly (rent for $10–$20 at Home Depot or Lowe's)
- Moving straps or ratchet straps
- A helper (two-person job)
- Adjustable pliers for hose fittings
Disconnect the washer
- Turn off the water supply valves behind the machine.
- Unscrew the two water supply hoses — have towels ready for drips.
- Pull the drain hose out of the standpipe.
- Unplug the power cord.
- Run a short spin cycle to drain residual water from the drum.
Disconnect the dryer
- Unplug the power cord (electric) OR turn off the gas valve and disconnect the gas line (gas — call a plumber if unsure).
- Disconnect the exhaust vent hose from the back.
- Tape the vent hose opening closed.
Transit bolts (front-loaders only)
Front-loading washers have transit bolts that must be reinstalled before moving — without them, the drum can damage internal bearings. Check your owner's manual.
Load into the trailer
- Tilt the appliance back slightly, slide the dolly under the base.
- Secure the dolly strap around the middle of the appliance.
- Two people: one on the dolly handle, one guiding. Roll into the trailer.
- Stand upright — never transport appliances on their sides if possible.
- Strap to D-rings securely.
How long does this take?
Disconnect + load + transport + unload + reconnect: 2–3 hours. A 3-hour trailer rental covers it.