How to Move a Dishwasher: Safe Steps and Smart Tips

Mitch Montoya

June 19, 2025

Moving a dishwasher is more than just unplugging and lifting, it’s a multi-step process that, when done right, ensures your appliance arrives at its new home safe, dry, and ready for use. Whether you’re planning a DIY move or hiring professionals, understanding how to move a dishwasher is essential for protecting both your investment and your property. This guide covers everything you need to know, including whether moving a dishwasher on its side or back is safe, and offers practical, research-backed advice for a smooth transition.

Why Moving a Dishwasher Requires Care

Dishwashers are heavy, awkwardly shaped, and connected to both water and electrical supplies. Most are built-in and secured with screws, making removal and transport a challenge for the unprepared. Mishandling can lead to leaks, electrical hazards, or even permanent damage to the appliance or your kitchen. That’s why it’s vital to follow a step-by-step process for moving dishwasher units safely.

Steps to Moving a Dishwasher

Step 1: Preparation: What You’ll Need

Before you start, gather the following tools and materials:

Screwdriver and adjustable wrench
Cable ties and packing tape
Moving blankets or bubble wrap
Rope or twine
Appliance dolly
Thick cardboard to protect floors
Small containers for screws and fittings

Having the right equipment makes it easier to move dishwasher units without damage or injury.

Step 2: Empty, Clean, and Dry the Dishwasher

Remove all dishes and utensils. Transporting with items inside can cause breakage and damage to internal components.
Run a cleaning cycle with hot water to eliminate food residue and bacteria. Let the appliance dry completely by leaving the door open for several hours or wiping with a towel.
Detach removable parts like trays and racks, wrap them in packing paper, and pack separately.

A dry, clean dishwasher is less likely to develop mold or leak during the move.

Step 3: Disconnect Power and Water Supplies

Shut off power at the circuit breaker, not just the wall socket. This ensures there’s no risk of electric shock while disconnecting wires.
Turn off the water supply at the valve under the sink or at the main water line.
Disconnect the drainage and water supply hoses using a wrench. Place a towel or bucket underneath to catch any remaining water.

Keep all screws, nuts, and fittings in a labeled bag for easy reassembly later.

Step 4: Detach the Dishwasher from Cabinets

Remove mounting screws found inside the dishwasher door at the top or sides, securing the appliance to the countertop or cabinetry.
Loosen adjustable feet with a wrench to lower the unit, making it easier to slide out.
Slide the dishwasher out slowly, using cardboard sheets underneath to protect the floor. Get help dishwashers can weigh 150–180 lbs (68–82 kg).
Avoid pulling too hard; make sure all hoses and cables are fully disconnected before moving the unit.

Step 5: Secure and Wrap the Dishwasher for Transport

Secure the power cord and hoses to the back of the unit with cable ties or tape to prevent tripping or snagging.
Tape the door shut with packing tape or rope to keep it from swinging open during the move.
Wrap the appliance in moving blankets or bubble wrap, paying special attention to corners and edges for shock absorption.
Proper wrapping is crucial for preventing scratches, dents, and internal damage during moving dishwasher operations.

Step 6: Using a Dolly and Moving the Appliance

Lift with your legs, not your back. Always have at least one helper for safety.
Slide an appliance dolly under the dishwasher and secure it with straps or rope.
Move carefully, especially up or down stairs. Use a loading ramp if available.
A dolly reduces the risk of dropping or damaging the dishwasher and makes moving a dishwasher much safer.

Step 7: Loading and Transporting the Dishwasher

Should You Transport a Dishwasher Upright, on Its Side, or on Its Back?

Best practice: Always transport a dishwasher in an upright (vertical) position. This minimizes the risk of internal damage, leaks, or shifting of components.
On its side: Some models can be moved on their side for short distances, but only if all water is drained and the manufacturer’s guidelines allow it. Internal parts may shift, and there’s a risk of leaks or damage, especially if the unit contains compressors or refrigerants (rare in dishwashers).
On its back: Laying a dishwasher on its back can make maneuvering through tight spaces easier, but it increases the risk of component movement and water leakage. Only do this if absolutely necessary, and for the shortest time possible. Always consult your user manual or the manufacturer for model-specific advice.

Step 8: Securing the Dishwasher in the Vehicle

Place the dishwasher upright in the moving vehicle and secure it with straps or ropes to prevent movement.
Avoid stacking heavy items on top of the dishwasher, as this can cause dents or internal damage.
Pad surrounding items to absorb shocks and prevent scratches.
Securing the appliance properly is key to a safe move of the dishwasher.

Step 9: Unloading and Reinstallation

Reverse the removal steps. Use a dolly to bring the dishwasher to its new location, unwrap, and reattach hoses, power, and mounting screws.
Check for leaks or electrical issues before pushing the unit fully into place.
Test run the dishwasher empty to ensure all connections are secure and the appliance is working.

The Risks of Moving a Dishwasher Yourself

Personal Injury: Dishwashers can weigh over 150 pounds and are difficult to maneuver, increasing the risk of back injuries or accidents.
Damage to the Appliance: Mishandling can break delicate components, such as the electronic control panel or water lines, leading to costly repairs.
Home Damage: Navigating tight spaces can result in scratched floors, dented walls, or water damage from leaks.
Improper Reinstallation: Reconnecting water and electrical lines incorrectly can cause operational failures or safety hazards.

Why You Should Hire Professional Movers for Your Dishwasher

Expertise in Safe Disconnection and Reinstallation

Professional movers are trained to safely disconnect water and electrical lines, minimizing the risk of leaks, shorts, or damage to your home’s plumbing and wiring.

Proper Equipment and Handling

Movers come equipped with dollies, straps, and protective materials to safely transport your dishwasher, reducing the risk of injury and damage.

Insurance and Peace of Mind

Reputable moving companies are insured, so if something goes wrong, you’re protected from unexpected repair or replacement costs.

Time and Stress Savings

Professionals handle the heavy lifting, troubleshooting, and logistics, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your move and reducing overall stress.

Protection for Your Home and Appliance

Movers use techniques and tools to safeguard your floors, walls, and the dishwasher itself, ensuring everything arrives in perfect condition.

Conclusion

While it’s possible to move a dishwasher yourself, the risks to your safety, your home, and your appliance are significant. Professional movers bring the expertise, equipment, and insurance needed to ensure a smooth, damage-free relocation. By trusting the experts, you protect your investment and enjoy peace of mind throughout your move.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q.1 Can I move a dishwasher myself?

A standard built-in dishwasher weighs between 150-180 pounds, so you will definitely need some help, professional or otherwise. For these reasons, you find that the best way for moving a dishwasher is to hire professional residential movers who know a thing or two about these appliances. But it’s not the only way.

Q.2 Do you need a plumber to move a dishwasher?

If you’re installing a dishwasher where there wasn’t one before, you’ll need a licensed plumber to handle the drain and water supply.

Q.3 How do you transport a dishwasher?

You might want to wrap the appliance in bubble wrap, a blanket, or anything to absorb shocks it may suffer during the move. Secure the appliance to the trolley or truck it’s going travel in with heavy-duty ropes. Dishwashers travel best on their back, with the door facing up.

Q.4 Is it expensive to move a dishwasher?

Dishwashers: Dishwashers need special disconnection and sealing to prevent water leaks, which can cost an additional $50 to $100 for moving. Don’t go at this alone or you are likely to break your appliance.