Moving Appliances As-Is vs Servicing & Drainage Before Transit

Short answer: Large home appliances should not be moved “as‑is.” Defrost and drain wet appliances 24–48 hours before moving, secure moving parts, and have ACs professionally pumped down and disconnected. Skipping these steps risks leaks, internal damage, safety violations, and potential warranty issues (check your model manual via the Samsung India Support hub).

When moving “as‑is” causes damage or voids warranties

• Fridge/freezer: Water leaks, odours, and compressor oil migration if tilted or powered too soon. Upright transport and a resting period are widely advised by manufacturers; confirm in your manual.
• Washing machine: An unsecured drum can snap suspension or damage bearings. Transit bolts are essential for most front‑loaders.
• Air conditioner: Venting refrigerant is unsafe and non‑compliant; only certified technicians should recover/pump down refrigerant per Ozone Cell (MoEFCC) guidance.
• Dishwasher, geyser, RO: Residual water can spill and cause mould, rust, or electrical issues.
• Gas stove/LPG: Cylinders are restricted for transport with movers; follow IndianOil Indane LPG safety tips and handle via authorised distributors.

When minimal prep is acceptable (small appliances)

• Small, dry countertop appliances (toaster, mixer, OTG) can be cleaned, dried, and packed after removing loose parts and cords.
• Remove batteries from remotes and clocks to prevent leaks. Keep manuals and small screws in labelled zip pouches.

Appliance-by-Appliance: Servicing & Drainage Before Transit

Use the tabs to switch between appliances. Each section includes timelines and specific handling cautions.

• Refrigerator/Freezer
• Washing Machine
• Air Conditioner
• Dishwasher
• Geyser/Water Heater
• RO Purifier
• Microwave & Gas Stove

As-Is vs Serviced: Cost, Risk, and Time Comparison

Table: Each appliance — Prep needed, time, DIY vs pro, risk if skipped

Preparation Timelines & Checklist (Downloadable)

7‑day to 24‑hour countdown for appliances

• 7 days out:
  • Book technician for AC uninstall/reinstall and (if needed) geyser/dishwasher plumbing.
  • Check manuals, locate transit bolts/screws, and arrange packing materials.
  • Inform your society and reserve lift slots if in a high‑rise.
• 3–4 days out:
  • Start consuming perishable freezer items; plan fridge defrost.
  • Clean microwave/oven; remove detachable parts for packing.
  • Confirm technician arrival window and movers’ pre‑move survey.
• 48 hours out:
  • Switch off fridge/freezer to defrost; place towels and open doors slightly.
  • Run dishwasher drain cycle; clean filters and dry.
  • Drain RO unit; store filters/membranes as per manual.
• 24 hours out:
  • Drain washing machine; fit transit bolts; secure hoses.
  • Power off and drain geyser; cap inlet/outlet.
  • Technician pump‑down for AC; cap lines; prepare outdoor unit.
• Moving day:
  • Check all doors locked/taped; shelves packed separately.
  • Label “UPRIGHT”, “DO NOT TILT”, and “FRAGILE” for appliances.
  • Keep screws/manuals in a labelled pouch; hand over to movers’ supervisor.

Labels, manuals, screws, and warranties: how to organise

• Create one pouch/box labelled “APPLIANCE FITTINGS: KITCHEN/LAUNDRY”.
• Include user manuals, warranty cards, invoices, and photos of serial numbers.
• Put small parts (screws, caps, brackets) in zip pouches with appliance name.
• Keep these with you, not in the moving truck.

Professional Help: When to Call a Technician

AC pump‑down/reinstall; geyser plumbing; built‑in appliances

• ACs: Always use a certified technician for pump‑down, disconnection, and reinstallation with vacuum and leak tests (see MoEFCC norms).
• Geyser and dishwashers: Safer with a plumber/electrician, especially in older buildings.
• Built‑in ovens/dishwashers/hobs: Professional removal avoids cabinet and wiring damage.

Typical add‑on charges and how to budget in India

Costs vary by city, season (March–June peak), and building type. Budget for technician visits, materials (caps/insulation), parking/long‑carry, and GST. To plan your move spend with technician add‑ons included, use our tool above. You’ll get 3 free quotes from verified movers for accurate bundling.

Packing & Loading Best Practices in India

Monsoon‑proofing (plastic crates vs cardboard), padding, tilt sensors

• Use stretch wrap and waterproof covers in monsoon routes (e.g., Mumbai–Goa, Kochi–Trivandrum). Plastic crates are better than plain cardboard for small appliances.
• Pad corners with foam; strap large items to dollies. Optional tilt/shock sensors help detect mishandling for insurance claims.

Upright markers, lift/elevator restrictions, high‑rise caveats

• Mark “UPRIGHT/THIS SIDE UP” clearly on fridges and washers.
• Reserve service lifts during society‑approved windows; confirm floor protection rules and electricity shutdown timings.
• For narrow stairwells, measure doorways and balconies; plan hoisting only with permission and experienced teams.

Handover, Resting Periods & First Power-On

Fridge resting hours; washing machine test cycle; leak checks

• Fridge/freezer: Rest unplugged for several hours (check manual) before switching on to allow oil to settle.
• Washing machine: Reconnect water, remove transit bolts, and run a short rinse test for leaks/vibration.
• AC: After reinstallation, ensure vacuuming and leak testing are done; verify cooling and condensate drainage.
• Dishwasher/RO/geyser: Reconnect, check for leaks, and flush/bleed air as required. For energy performance tips post‑move, see the BEE star labelling programme.

Insurance, Documentation & Disclosures to Movers

Pre‑move survey disclosures; photos; condition notes; insurance coverage

• Share make/model, ages, and service needs (AC uninstall, RO drain) during the pre‑move visit so teams carry the right tools and plan lift/parking. Learn why this step matters: importance of a pre-move survey.
• Take clear photos of appliances, serial plates, and existing dents/scratches. Label boxes and mark special handling notes (UPRIGHT/DO NOT TILT).
• Ask for transit insurance for high‑value appliances; understand inclusions, exclusions, deductibles, and documentation. Read our home relocation insurance guide before moving day.
• If an old/non‑working appliance won’t be moved, follow responsible disposal via the CPCB e‑waste guidance.

FAQs

How long to defrost a fridge before moving?

Switch off and defrost 24–48 hours before moving. Dry interiors, trays, and the drip pan. Transport upright and allow a resting period after delivery per your manual.

Do I need transit bolts for a washer?

For most front‑load washers, yes—transit bolts lock the drum and protect suspension during transit. Check your user manual if you cannot find the bolts for your model.

Can I transport a fridge lying down?

Avoid it. Upright transport is recommended to prevent compressor oil migration. If unavoidable for a short distance, keep it as upright as possible, keep the compressor end higher, and increase resting time after delivery.

Who can legally handle AC refrigerant in India?

Only certified technicians should recover and handle refrigerants. Venting to the atmosphere is not acceptable under national norms.

What to do with LPG cylinders when moving?

Close the valve, disconnect safely, and handle refit through authorised distributors. Most movers won’t transport cylinders; confirm policies before moving.

“Moving large appliances ‘as‑is’ is a false shortcut. A day of preparation avoids weeks of repair hassles.” — Senior Relocation Specialist, AssureShift