How To Ship A Dishwasher? [4 Steps + COMPLETE Guide]  

Originally Created on: March 16, 2023 @ 9:48 am

Shipping a dishwasher is a bit more different than moving a mattress or a sofa. It requires thorough planning and preparation.

If this is the first time you are shipping a dishwasher, you may be wondering how to ship a dishwasher? 

Below, we have compiled some useful tips on how to safely transport a dishwasher.

Whether you are moving it by car or a shipping company, the guide below will ensure your dishwasher arrives in perfect condition.

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How to Ship a Dishwasher? 

When it comes to moving a dishwasher, there is more involved than just pulling the plug and fitting it in the back of your truck.

In many homes, the dishwasher is usually fixed to the wall and attached to power lines and water pipes. These have to be disconnected before you wrap and transport it.

We have broken down the process of shipping a dishwasher into the following steps:

• Switch off the water and power connection – Before moving your dishwasher, you will need to shut off the power and water lines. This is the first and most important step.

Look for the valve supplying water to the dishwasher and flip it off. Repeat this step for the power supply line. Unplug the power cable and drainage pipes connected to your appliance. 
• Remove the dishwasher from the kitchen wall or counter – If your washer is secured to the wall or countertop, find out how you can detach it. Most of the time it’s usually attached by screws.

Therefore, you only need a screwdriver to detach it. Once it has been freed, gently push it out of the wall. An extra pair of hands can come in handy in helping you move heavy dishwashers. 
• Cover It with Plastic Wrap – Close any doors or openings before covering your dishwasher with an air-filled plastic wrap. This will safeguard your dishwasher during transit.

If you are struggling with wrapping the washer, you can use ropes to secure it into position. ropes can also secure hanging wires. 
• Fit the Wrapped Dishwasher into a Car – To move the dishwasher from your home to a car or truck, you can either use an appliance dolly or carry it with a friend. Be very careful to avoid damaging the dishwasher or hurting yourselves. Once fitted in the car or moving truck, it can be shipped to anywhere you want. 

Can I Lay a Dishwasher Down to Transport It? 

This is actually the safest way to transport a dishwasher. When you lay a dishwasher down on its back, with the door facing up, you prevent the latter from swinging during transit.

A swinging dishwasher door can damage itself or your car which can result in costly repairs. To avoid such, always lay the dishwasher down during transportation. 

Most people assume that a dishwasher should be shipped when it’s upright so as to prevent the spilling of liquids. But this can be quite risky because the dishwasher can easily topple and get damaged.

The only exception to shipping a dishwasher in an upright position is if it has been securely fastened to the car or truck. But is it really worth the risk? 

While we are still discussing suitable positions for transporting a dishwasher, you should also avoid laying it down on the sides. Some dishwashers contain electrical gadgets and components that can be damaged when you lay it on the sides during shipping.

Always refer to the manual on how you should lay a dishwasher during transit. Remember that any damage that occurs during the transportation of a dishwasher can void its warranty. 

Transporting Dishwasher in Car 

There are two main ways you can transport a dishwasher. The most popular method is by using a mover’s truck and other entails using a personal vehicle. A moving company uses big trucks that can snugly fit dishwashers in any position.

Also, these companies securely wrap your dishwasher which ensures it won’t get damaged during shipment. The problem with hiring such a company is that the transportation will cost you more. 

The other option is to wrap your dishwasher and fit it in the back of your car. If you own an SUV, you can easily fit at the back because there is ample cargo space.

Before deciding to use a car to ferry a dishwasher, you must evaluate the weight and size. Small cars such as hatchbacks and saloons may not have the facilities to transport a big dishwasher. 

If you settle for using a car to ship a dishwasher, ensure that you lay it on the back and tape its door shut.

This will prevent the door from swinging and damaging your vehicle. You should also use adequate padding to prevent impact caused by bumps or potholes. 

Can You Put a Dishwasher in a Car? 

Most standard dishwashers measure around 10 to 20 cubic feet. If you have a car that has more than 20 cubic feet of cargo space, you can carry a dishwasher in the trunk.

Please note that this option is limited to SUVs and hatchbacks. If you own a saloon car, it’s impossible to fit a dishwasher inside there. 

When carrying a dishwasher in a car, it’s advisable to lower the third and second-row seats. This will give you more wiggle room.

Also, don’t forget to lay the dishwasher on its back and secure it into one position using ropes. It can be challenging to fit a dishwasher into a car by yourself. therefore, don’t be afraid to ask for extra help. 

Before placing your dishwasher in a car, always refer to the manual and manufacturer instructions. There are some dishwasher brands that are against this practice. And engaging in such may void the warranty.

If you doubt that a dishwasher can fit in your car, don’t force things. It’s advisable to always be gentle and if it fails to fit, hire a professional mover’s company to transport it for you. 

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Conclusion 

Shipping a dishwasher isn’t rocket science. Using the tips shared above, you should be able to safely transport a dishwasher to different locations.

Though risky, moving a dishwasher is sometimes unavoidable.

If you find yourself in such a situation, prepare early in advance and observe all safety protocols to ensure no damage occurs to your appliance.