Refrigerator Movers vs. DIY: What’s the Best Way to Move Your Fridge?

Moving a refrigerator is far more complicated than moving a regular piece of furniture. It’s not just about lifting and carrying a heavy appliance; it’s about ensuring the cooling system remains intact, the surface or doors are not damaged, and the entire unit is properly secured during transport. Unlike a couch or a dresser, a fridge contains delicate mechanical components that can be thrown off balance if handled incorrectly. If the appliance is tilted too far or moved without proper support, the compressor oil can leak into the cooling lines, potentially leading to permanent damage.

Additionally, refrigerators are awkwardly shaped and heavy, often weighing anywhere between 200 and 500 pounds. This makes them difficult to maneuver, especially in homes with tight doorways, narrow hallways, or multiple flights of stairs. Without the right preparation and equipment, you risk not only damaging the fridge but also scratching floors, denting walls, or even injuring yourself.

Given all these challenges, many homeowners debate whether they should hire refrigerator movers or attempt to move the fridge themselves. While hiring professionals may seem like an added expense, it greatly reduces the risks associated with moving such a large and fragile appliance. On the other hand, a DIY move can be a viable option for those who are well-prepared, physically capable, and willing to invest in the right tools. In this guide, we’ll explore both options in depth and help you determine the best way to move your refrigerator safely.

Want to avoid back strain, damage to floors, or the fridge? Consider hiring the pros at Joey’s Movers. Give us a call at (847) 674-7779 or request a free online quote!

Why Moving a Refrigerator Is So Difficult

A refrigerator is much more than just a box that keeps food cold. It is a complex system of electrical and mechanical parts that need to be handled carefully. One of the biggest concerns when moving a fridge is keeping it upright throughout the process. If the fridge is tilted too far or laid flat, the compressor oil can flow into the refrigerant lines, potentially causing the cooling system to fail when restarted.

Beyond mechanical concerns, refrigerators are one of the heaviest household appliances, often requiring at least two strong individuals and specialized equipment to move safely. The combination of weight, bulkiness, and delicate internal components makes refrigerator moving one of the most physically demanding tasks during a move.

Another challenge is navigating tight spaces. Many homes and apartments have narrow doorways or staircases, making it difficult to fit a large refrigerator through without damaging the walls or the appliance itself. It’s also important to protect floors from scratches, especially when sliding the fridge out of its current location. Without the right preparation, moving a refrigerator can lead to expensive repairs or even render the appliance unusable.

The Benefits of Hiring Professional Refrigerator Movers

Given the complexity of moving a refrigerator, many homeowners choose to hire professional movers who specialize in appliance relocation. Professional movers bring years of experience, the right equipment, and a team of trained individuals who know how to handle large appliances safely. This reduces the chances of damage, ensures the move goes smoothly, and prevents injuries.

One of the biggest advantages of hiring professional movers is that they come equipped with specialized tools and moving supplies. Appliance dollies, furniture straps, and protective padding are essential for ensuring the refrigerator is transported securely. Movers also know how to navigate staircases, tight doorways, and other tricky spaces, which can be especially helpful in multi-story homes or high-rise apartments.

Another major benefit of hiring professionals is that they reduce the risk of injury. Lifting a refrigerator improperly can lead to back strain, muscle injuries, or even more serious accidents. Professional movers have the training to lift and transport heavy items safely, using proper lifting techniques and support gear.

Additionally, many moving companies offer full-service appliance relocation, meaning they handle everything from disconnecting the fridge from power and water lines to properly positioning it in your new home. This is especially useful for refrigerators with ice makers and water dispensers, which require careful disconnection and reconnection. By hiring professional movers, you eliminate the hassle of doing it yourself and ensure your fridge arrives at its new location in perfect working condition.

Moving the Refrigerator Yourself

While professional movers make the process much easier, some people choose to move their refrigerator themselves to save money or maintain full control over the move. If you’re considering a DIY approach, it’s important to be fully prepared and understand the risks and challenges involved.

The first step in a DIY move is gathering the necessary equipment. Unlike moving smaller household items, you can’t just grab the fridge and carry it to a new location. You’ll need a heavy-duty appliance dolly with securing straps to ensure the fridge doesn’t tip over while being transported. You’ll also need moving blankets and protective padding to prevent damage to both the appliance and your home.

Preparing the refrigerator before moving is just as important as the move itself. Unplugging the fridge at least 24 hours in advance allows the cooling system to settle and prevents damage to the compressor. You’ll also need to remove all food, shelves, and drawers to avoid spills or internal breakage during transport. If the refrigerator has a built-in water dispenser or ice maker, disconnecting the water line properly is crucial to prevent leaks.

Once the fridge is prepped, the moving process requires careful maneuvering and patience. The refrigerator must be kept upright at all times, and any tilting should be minimal to avoid damaging the internal components. Using a dolly, the fridge should be slowly rolled onto the moving truck, secured in place, and transported carefully to avoid sudden movements. At the destination, allowing the fridge to sit for several hours before plugging it back in ensures that the coolant settles properly and that the appliance is ready for use.

Refrigerator Movers vs. DIY

So, which is the better option? Choosing between professional movers and a DIY approach comes down to cost, effort, and risk tolerance. While a DIY move may seem like a way to save money,the potential for damage, injury, and added stress can outweigh the initial cost savings. Hiring professionals ensures a smooth, safe, and efficient move, but at a higher cost.

For those who are comfortable with heavy lifting and have the necessary equipment, DIY moving can be a budget-friendly option. However, for homeowners who want to ensure their fridge remains in perfect condition, professional movers are well worth the investment.

Commercial Refrigerator Movers

Relocating a commercial refrigerator isn’t just about moving a heavy appliance—it’s about protecting a vital asset your business relies on every day. Whether you operate a restaurant, hospital, convenience store, or property management company, your refrigeration system is essential to your operations. That’s why commercial refrigerator moves demand specialized handling, expert timing, and zero margin for error.

The Challenges of Moving Commercial Refrigerators

Unlike standard residential fridges, commercial units are often oversized, built-in, or custom-installed. Many are connected to drainage systems, water lines, or temperature monitoring equipment, and often weigh over 1,000 pounds. Some units include sensitive inventory or require strict temperature control during downtime.

The risks are high: improper handling can lead to equipment failure, loss of inventory, or even business interruptions. From navigating loading docks to securing permits for large-item transport, the process must be coordinated with precision.

What Commercial Refrigerator Movers Provide

Professional commercial refrigerator movers offer the tools and training needed for seamless transport. This includes heavy-duty dollies, lift gates, appliance straps, and moving blankets for protection. They also provide disconnection and reconnection support, and ensure the refrigerator is kept upright, level, and secure throughout the move.

In addition, experienced movers understand how to work within commercial environments. They coordinate around business hours, manage building access, and comply with facility safety protocols.

Who Needs Commercial Refrigerator Moving Services?

• Restaurants and commercial kitchens upgrading or relocating equipment
• Healthcare facilities moving medical-grade refrigeration units
• Hotels and resorts renovating food prep and service areas
• Convenience stores and grocery retailers shifting walk-in coolers
• Property managers replacing large appliances between tenants

Protecting Business Continuity

Every hour your refrigeration system is offline can affect operations. That’s why the goal of a professional commercial refrigerator move is to minimize downtime, prevent damage, and ensure the unit is operational immediately upon delivery.

If your business is planning to relocate or replace a commercial refrigerator in the Chicagoland area, Joey’s Movers provides specialized commercial moving services designed with your operations in mind.

Call (847) 674-7779 or request a commercial quote today.

Why Choose Joey’s Movers for Refrigerator Moving?

At Joey’s Movers, we understand that moving a refrigerator requires more than just strength—it requires precision, experience, and the right tools. Our team of trained professionals is equipped with appliance dollies, protective padding, and the knowledge to handle even the trickiest moves.

We provide:

• Expert handling for all refrigerator types, including side-by-side, French door, and built-in models.
• Safe transportation with the proper equipment to prevent damage.
• Flexible scheduling for local and long-distance refrigerator moves.
• Affordable pricing with no hidden fees.
• Insurance is available in the rare case of any damage to your refrigerator.

Moving your refrigerator doesn’t have to be a struggle. Whether you’re relocating within the city or across state lines, Joey’s Movers ensures a hassle-free experience from start to finish.

Schedule Your Refrigerator Move Today

Searching for Refrigerator movers near me?’ If you’re in the Chicago area and the north suburbs, we’re around the corner and here to help. Call the professional refrigerator movers near you. Call Joey’s Movers at (847) 674-7779 or get a free online quote!

Photo by Alex Qian