3 Reasons to Leave Large Appliances Behind When You Move
When you begin packing for a move, some things are easy, stacking plates in bubble wrap, boxing up your coffee maker, or tossing old plastic containers. But once the small kitchen tasks are done, you’re left staring at the real giants: your refrigerator, stove, and dishwasher.
They’ve been with you for years, and they might even match your kitchen décor. So it’s natural to ask, Should I take these with me?
The short answer? Not always. While it may seem like a no-brainer to take expensive appliances along, doing so may not be worth the time, money, or risk. Leaving large appliances behind can be the smarter, simpler decision—and here's why.
1. Moving Large Appliances Takes Time, Tools, and Expertise
On the surface, these machines look sturdy and solid. But inside, they’re full of sensitive wiring, electronic components, and fragile connections. Moving them isn’t as simple as just unplugging and lifting.
To start, disconnecting appliances like dishwashers or stoves requires more than a wrench and elbow grease. You may need a professional to properly shut off gas lines, seal water hoses, or ensure safety valves are correctly closed. If you skip these steps, you risk leaks, damage, or worse—fire hazards.
Then there’s the prep work. For example:
Refrigerators need to be fully emptied, defrosted, and cleaned to prevent mold or water damage in transit.
Stoves, especially gas-powered ones, need licensed technicians to safely disconnect and secure components.
Dishwashers must be drained, dried, and stabilized before being packed.
Without the right tools or expertise, this process can become a major source of stress during your move.
2. They Add Hefty Costs to Your Move
Let’s talk logistics. Moving companies typically charge by the total weight and volume of your shipment. That means large, heavy appliances can quickly inflate your moving costs.
A standard refrigerator alone can weigh over 300 pounds. Add a stove and a dishwasher, and you’re dealing with hundreds of extra pounds that take up valuable space in the moving truck. Plus, these appliances aren’t stackable or easily compacted like furniture or boxes.
You also have to consider:
The labor costs for extra manpower
Potential damage from improper loading
Reconnection fees at your new place
Special packing materials and moving equipment
When all those expenses add up, you might realize that buying new appliances—especially if your current ones are outdated—could be more cost-effective.
3. Leaving Appliances Behind Can Make Your Home Easier to Sell
Here’s a tip many sellers overlook: Including your appliances could give you an edge in the housing market.
While it’s true that large appliances are considered personal property and not mandatory to leave behind, offering them as part of the home sale can be a strong selling point, particularly for first-time homebuyers. These buyers often prefer homes that are move-in ready, and that includes a working kitchen.
Modern appliances in good condition can increase your home’s perceived value. They can:
Make your listing more appealing
Help justify a higher asking price
Speed up the sale process
By highlighting features like a stainless steel fridge or an upgraded range in your real estate photos, you give buyers another reason to say yes to your home. And in a competitive market, that could make all the difference.
The Bottom Line: Moving Without Large Appliances Makes Sense
While the idea of taking your appliances with you might feel logical at first, it’s worth stepping back and considering the bigger picture.
Think about:
The physical effort and prep involved
The cost to move and reinstall everything
The potential benefits of including them in your home sale
In many cases, simplifying your move by leaving large appliances behind helps you start fresh in your new home without dragging unnecessary weight or expense along for the ride.
Get Expert Help for a Smarter, Easier Move
At Desert Moving Co., we help you make the right choices for a stress-free move. Whether you're relocating across town or the country, our team can guide you through the process—from packing advice to smart decisions about what to bring (and what to leave).
Request a free moving estimate today and let’s make your move smoother, lighter, and more cost-effective.
