Big appliances and TVs are expensive, heavy and easy to damage if they're not prepared properly. Most of the prep is quick — it just needs to happen before moving day.
Always check your manufacturer's instructions. They override general advice.
Prep list: Fridge — empty, defrost and dry 24 hours before · Washing machine — drain and fit transit bolts · TV — original box or a blanket, always upright · Photograph all cables before unplugging.
The fridge and freezer
1–2 weeks before
Run down the food. Plan simple meals from what's left.
24 hours before
- Empty everything
- Turn it off and leave the doors open
- Put towels underneath to catch water as it defrosts
- Wipe it dry — in Darwin's humidity, a damp fridge goes mouldy fast
- Remove or tape down shelves and drawers
On moving day
- Keep it upright where possible
- Tape the doors closed (use painter's tape to avoid marks)
After the move
- Let it stand before switching on — check your manual for how long
- Wait until it's cold before restocking
The washing machine
- Run an empty rinse a day or two before, then drain fully
- Turn off the taps, disconnect the hoses and drain them into a bucket
- Fit transit bolts on front loaders — check your manual (replacements can often be ordered if you've lost them)
- Bag hoses and tape them to the machine
- Leave the door slightly open afterwards to dry out
The dryer
- Clean the lint filter
- Tape the door closed and the cord to the back
- Gas dryers need a qualified person to disconnect
The dishwasher
- Run it empty, then let it dry with the door open
- Disconnect water and drainage (a plumber if it's plumbed in)
- Remove or secure the racks
The TV
- Photograph the cable setup before unplugging
- Put cables and remotes in a labelled zip-lock bag
- Use the original box if you have it
- Otherwise, wrap the screen in a moving blanket, protect the corners, and secure it with tape over the blanket, never on the screen
- Move it upright — never lay a flat screen flat
- Wall-mounted? Take it down and keep the bracket screws together
Many removalists offer TV boxes or specialist wrapping. Ask when you book.
Heavy whitegoods in Darwin homes
On elevated homes, fridges and washing machines need to go up or down stairs. Let the crew handle it with the right trolley and straps.
What's covered if something breaks?
Many policies exclude mechanical or electrical faults. Read Is Removalist Insurance Worth It?
Need help with the big stuff?
Get a free quote · or see our furniture removals service. For very heavy items, read Moving Heavy Items.
Frequently asked questions
How long should a fridge stand before turning it on after moving?
Check your manufacturer's instructions. A common guide is to wait a few hours after moving a fridge upright, and longer if it was laid down, so the oil can settle back into the compressor.
Can a fridge be laid down when moving?
It's best to keep fridges upright. If it must be tilted or laid down, check the manual and allow extra time before switching it on.
Do I need transit bolts to move a washing machine?
Front-loading washing machines usually need transit bolts to stop the drum moving. Check your manual. If you've lost them, replacements can often be ordered for your model.
How should I pack a TV for moving?
Use the original box if you have it. Otherwise wrap the screen in a moving blanket, protect the corners, and move it upright. Never lay a flat-screen TV flat.