Moving a refrigerator safely in a trailer requires proper preparation, securing, and careful transport to avoid damage. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth and damage-free move.
1. Gather Necessary Supplies
📦 What You’ll Need:
✔ Dolly with straps (appliance dolly)
✔ Ratchet straps or rope
✔ Furniture blankets or padding
✔ Bungee cords (optional for extra security)
✔ Work gloves 🧤
2. Prepare the Refrigerator
🔹 Empty the fridge – Remove all food, shelves, and drawers to prevent shifting.
🔹 Defrost & clean – Let the fridge defrost at least 24 hours before moving.
🔹 Secure doors & power cord – Tape the doors shut and wrap the power cord.
3. Load the Refrigerator onto the Dolly
✔ Tilt the fridge slightly and slide the appliance dolly under the side (not the front or back).
✔ Secure with dolly straps to keep it stable.
✔ Keep it upright while moving—laying it down can damage the compressor.
4. Load the Refrigerator into the Trailer
✔ Use a loading ramp – Slowly roll the fridge up the ramp.
✔ Place it near the front of the trailer for better weight distribution.
✔ Keep it upright – If you must lay it down, place it on its side (never the back).
5. Secure the Refrigerator in the Trailer
🔹 Use ratchet straps – Wrap straps around the fridge and attach them to the trailer’s anchor points.
🔹 Add padding – Use blankets or foam to prevent scratches and movement.
🔹 Check stability – The fridge should not shift when you shake it gently.
6. Transport with Caution
🚛 Drive carefully:
✅ Avoid sudden stops & sharp turns.
✅ Use low speeds on rough roads.
✅ Stop and check straps every 50 miles.
7. Unload and Let It Settle
✔ Move the fridge carefully off the trailer with the dolly.
✔ Keep it upright for at least 4-6 hours before plugging it in to prevent compressor damage.
FAQs
1. Can I transport a fridge on its side?
Yes, but only on its side (never on its back), and let it stand upright for at least 4-6 hours before plugging it in.
2. How do I keep a refrigerator door from opening during transport?
Use tape or bungee cords to secure the doors shut.
3. What is the best trailer size for moving a refrigerator?
A 6×12 trailer is ideal, but a 5×8 trailer can also fit most refrigerators.
4. Do I need to defrost my refrigerator before moving?
Yes, defrost at least 24 hours before moving to prevent water leakage.
5. How long should I wait before plugging in a moved fridge?
Wait 4-6 hours if transported upright, or 12-24 hours if laid on its side.
Final Thoughts
Hauling a refrigerator in a trailer requires proper securing, slow driving, and careful unloading. Always keep it upright, strap it tightly, and allow it to settle before plugging it in to avoid compressor damage. 🚛❄️
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