Washing machines are heavy and have a suspended drum that can be damaged in transit if it is not secured. A little draining and drum-locking keeps yours safe.
Last updated: August 2026
What You'll Need
- Transit (shipping) bolts
- A bucket for draining
- Hose caps or bags
- Moving blankets
- Stretch film
- An appliance dolly
How to Pack a Washing Machine Step by Step
- Disconnect a day before. Turn off water and power the day before. Run a short empty spin to drain the machine, then leave the drum open to dry.
- Drain the hoses. Empty the inlet and drain hoses into a bucket, then cap or bag them so no water leaks in the truck.
- Fit the transit bolts. Fit the transit (shipping) bolts to lock the drum on front-loaders - the most important step to prevent internal damage. If you do not have them, movers add drum padding.
- Secure cable and hoses. Coil and tape the power cable and hoses to the back of the machine.
- Wrap the body. Cover the machine in moving blankets and wrap with stretch film to protect the finish and controls.
- Move upright on a dolly. Keep the machine upright, strap it to a dolly, and load it standing up in the vehicle.
Pro Tips
- Transit bolts are essential for front-loaders - never skip them.
- Drain fully to avoid leaks and mould.
- Keep the manual handy for reinstallation.
Short on time, or want it done safely by professionals? Our trained crew packs appliances, electronics and fragile items every day across Bangalore. See household shifting or get a free quote.