How To Pack Fridge And Freezer For Moving in 2024

Step 1: Preparing Your Fridge and Freezer for the Move

Before you start packing, there are several essential steps to prepare your refrigerator and freezer for safe transportation.

1.1 Clean the Interior

A few days before moving, thoroughly clean the interior of both your refrigerator and freezer:

• Remove all food items: Dispose of any expired or perishable food. If you have items you want to keep, consume them before moving or give them away.
• Wipe down the interior: Use a damp cloth to clean up spills, crumbs, or any food residue inside the fridge and freezer. This prevents unwanted odors and ensures a fresh start at your new home.

Example: If you have leftovers, plan your meals a few days before the move to minimize waste. Any unopened frozen goods could be donated to friends or neighbors.

1.2 Defrost the Freezer

If your freezer has a manual defrost setting, defrost it 24-48 hours before the move:

• Unplug the freezer: Allow it to defrost naturally by keeping the door open.
• Collect melting ice: Use towels to soak up any water as the ice melts.
• Clean the freezer: Once fully defrosted, wipe down the interior to remove any remaining water.

Note: If your freezer is frost-free, you can skip the defrosting step, but still clean it thoroughly.

1.3 Turn Off the Refrigerator

Unplug your refrigerator several hours before the move to allow it to thaw and warm up. This step prevents condensation and ice buildup during transport, which could damage internal components.

Step 2: Packing the Refrigerator

Once the fridge is prepped, it’s time to start packing:

2.1 Remove and Wrap Shelves and Drawers

• Take out all removable parts: This includes shelves, drawers, and any other components inside the fridge.
• Wrap each piece individually: Use bubble wrap or packing paper to wrap the shelves and drawers, and label each item to make reassembly easier at your new home.

Example: Label shelves like "Fridge Top Shelf" or "Freezer Drawer" to avoid confusion later.

2.2 Wrap the Exterior of the Fridge

• Use bubble wrap or packing paper: Wrap the outside of the refrigerator in several layers to prevent scratches or dents during the move.
• Secure with packing tape: Ensure the wrapping stays in place by using packing tape, but avoid taping directly to the fridge’s surface to prevent damage to the finish.

2.3 Secure the Doors

• Tape the doors shut: Use masking tape or packing tape to secure the fridge doors, ensuring they don’t open during transportation.

Step 3: Packing the Freezer

The process for packing the freezer is similar to the refrigerator:

3.1 Remove and Wrap Shelves and Drawers

• Take out all freezer components: Just like the fridge, remove and individually wrap each shelf and drawer with bubble wrap or packing paper.
• Label each piece: Mark them clearly for easier reassembly at your new home.

3.2 Wrap the Exterior of the Freezer

• Protect the freezer’s surface: Wrap the freezer in multiple layers of packing paper or bubble wrap to avoid scratches or dents.
• Secure the wrapping with tape: Use packing tape to hold the wrapping in place, making sure to avoid direct contact with the surface to protect the finish.

3.3 Secure the Door

• Tape the door shut: Just like the fridge, ensure the freezer door is taped securely to prevent it from opening during the move.

Step 4: Loading the Refrigerator and Freezer into the Moving Truck

Once everything is packed, it’s time to load the appliances into the moving truck:

4.1 Always Keep the Appliances Upright

• Transport upright: Both the refrigerator and freezer should always be transported in an upright position to prevent damage to the compressors, which are located at the bottom of the appliances.

Example: Laying a refrigerator on its side can cause compressor oil to leak into the cooling system, potentially causing long-term damage.

4.2 Secure the Appliances in the Truck

• Use appliance movers or straps: Secure the fridge and freezer inside the truck using strong straps or ropes to keep them in place. Make sure they are tightly fastened to prevent shifting during the move.

Pricing Grid for Packing and Moving a Refrigerator and Freezer

Pricing Examples for Moving Refrigerators and Freezers with Moving Companies in Calgary

• Calgary Movers: $150 - $250 for local appliance moving services, including packing and transport within Calgary.
• Long Distance Movers: $500 - $1,000 for moving a refrigerator and freezer from Calgary to a neighboring province like British Columbia or Alberta.
• Moving Companies Calgary: $200 - $350 for appliance packing and local transportation within Calgary city limits.

FAQ

Q: How far in advance should I unplug my refrigerator before moving?
A: It’s recommended to unplug your refrigerator and freezer at least 4-6 hours before moving. This allows the appliances to thaw and prevents condensation from forming during transport.

Q: Can I transport my refrigerator and freezer on their side?
A: No, refrigerators and freezers should always be transported upright to avoid damage to the compressors. Laying them on their side can cause oil to leak into the cooling system, leading to malfunction.

Q: How long should I wait before plugging in my refrigerator after moving?
A: It’s best to wait 3-4 hours after moving before plugging in your refrigerator to allow the compressor oil to settle back into place.

Q: Can Calgary movers help with packing and moving my fridge and freezer?
A: Yes, many Calgary movers offer appliance packing and moving services. They can help safely transport your refrigerator and freezer, ensuring they are protected throughout the move.

By following these detailed steps, you can ensure your refrigerator and freezer are packed and moved safely. Whether you’re moving locally within Calgary or long-distance, taking the proper precautions will help avoid damage and ensure your appliances arrive in perfect working condition at your new home. If you need assistance, don’t hesitate to hire moving companies in Calgary that specialize in appliance moving for a stress-free experience.