Moving a fridge or freezer always raises the same question: can it lie down in the van, or does it have to stay upright? And how long do you have to wait before switching it back on? Below you can read how it works and how to get the appliance ready for the move.
Upright or lying down?
Preferably transport a fridge or freezer upright. Inside the appliance there is a compressor with oil. If the appliance lies on its side, that oil can run into the pipes of the cooling system. If you then switch it on too soon, the compressor can be damaged.
If there is no other way, transporting it lying down is usually possible, as long as you get a few things right:
- Lay it on its side, not on its back. The cooling pipes and the grille are at the back.
- Preferably lay it so that the compressor pipes point upwards. Some manufacturers say which side in the manual.
- Put a blanket or cardboard underneath and make sure nothing is placed on top of it.
- Let the appliance rest for longer after setting it down before you plug it in.
The manual for your model always comes first. So have a look at it, or look it up using the model number.
How long to wait before switching on?
After transport, the oil needs time to settle back into the compressor. A common rule of thumb:
- Transported upright: wait a few hours. Many manufacturers say one to four hours.
- Transported lying down: wait longer. The longer it was lying down, the longer you wait. A whole night is a safe choice.
If your manual gives a different time, stick to that.
A day before: empty and defrost
A few days before the move, start eating your way through the fridge and freezer. That way you have less to take with you. Then:
- Switch the freezer off at least a day before the move and let it defrost with the door open. Lay down towels and put a tray under the drain channel, as a lot of water will come out.
- Empty the fridge and switch it off.
- Clean the inside with lukewarm water and a little washing-up liquid or vinegar.
- Dry everything thoroughly. A damp fridge that stays closed for a day will start to smell musty.
- Take out glass shelves and loose drawers and pack them separately, with blankets or cardboard in between.
- Tape the door shut with tape that leaves no residue, or strap it closed with a ratchet strap. Open the door again as soon as it is in its new place.
Keeping food cold during the move
Whatever you do not finish, you can take with you in cool boxes with ice packs. Put the ice packs in the freezer a few days in advance. Frozen food stays good longest if you pack it tightly together in a cool box. Load that box into the car last and put it back into the cold freezer first. If that is not possible within a few hours, eat whatever has thawed first and do not refreeze it.
American-style fridge freezer
An American-style fridge freezer is big and heavy. Measure the doors, hallways and stairwell of both homes in advance. Sometimes the doors have to come off to get it inside. If it has a water or ice connection, turn off the tap and disconnect the water pipe. Also empty the water tank and the ice tray. After installation, it often takes a day before the ice maker works properly again.
In its new place
- Make sure the appliance is level and leave some space at the back and top for ventilation.
- Wait for the rest period and then plug it in.
- Let the fridge come down to temperature for a few hours before you put food in it. A freezer usually needs longer.
Do you also have a washing machine to move? Read how to move it safely with transit bolts. And if you want to know how a moving day with movers goes, have a look at moving day from start to finish.
Leave the heavy appliances to us
A fridge or freezer is awkward to lift, especially on stairs. If GD Verhuisbedrijf is doing your move, let us know in the free moving check which large appliances need to come along.
Frequently asked questions
Can a fridge be transported lying down?
Upright is better. Lying down is usually possible, on its side and not on its back, but then you have to let it stand for longer before you switch it on. Check the manual for your model.
How long should a fridge stand after the move?
Usually a few hours if transported upright, longer if transported lying down, for example overnight. The manufacturer's manual takes priority.
Do I need to defrost the freezer before the move?
Yes. Switch it off at least a day in advance and let it defrost with the door open. Then dry it thoroughly, otherwise it will start to smell musty.
