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Usually, no: move a washing machine upright. Whirlpool, Maytag, Bosch UK and Samsung South Africa all advise upright transport in the guidance covered here; Maytag and Samsung warn that laying a washer down can cause damage. AEG Austria gives a narrow exception for certain front-load washers, allowing transport on the left side under specific conditions. Because instructions differ by brand, model and market, check the manual for your exact washer before choosing an orientation.
Why the answer depends on your washer
Manufacturers do not give one universal rule for every washing machine. The guidance reviewed here recommends upright transport for the models it covers, while AEG Austria permits a qualified alternative for its front-load washers. That exception should not be applied to another AEG model or another brand without confirmation from its manual or manufacturer.
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These are handling recommendations, not guarantees that a particular washer will or will not be damaged. The sources do not quantify a damage rate for transporting washers on their sides.
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What manufacturers say about transport orientation
| Manufacturer and scope | Orientation guidance | Relevant qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Whirlpool, front-load | Keep the washer upright. | Whirlpool also gives model-specific preparation instructions and directs owners to service for new transport bolts; it says not to reuse those bolts. Whirlpool guidance |
| Maytag, front-load | Keep the washer upright; transporting it on its side or in another configuration may cause damage. | Maytag says shipping bolts stabilize the support and suspension system and recommends an authorized technician to install them. Maytag guidance |
| Bosch UK | Keep the washer upright. | For a long-distance move, Bosch recommends replacing transit bolts and securing the appliance if using a trolley. Bosch UK guidance |
| Samsung South Africa | Transport the washer upright; shipping it on its side, front or back can cause damage. | Samsung advises replacing shipping bolts. Samsung South Africa guidance |
| AEG Austria, front-load | Upright where possible. If that is not possible, its guidance allows the washer to be placed on its left side, detergent-drawer side, with the top slightly raised and hose ends uppermost. | This is a specific regional exception, not general permission for other models or brands. AEG Austria guidance |
| Whirlpool, top-load | Transport upright. | Preparation includes draining residual water and securing the lid and hoses; follow the instructions for the particular model. Whirlpool top-load guidance |
How to prepare a washer for a move
- Identify the exact model. Find the full model number and read the transport section of its manual before deciding how to move it. If the manual is missing or unclear, ask the manufacturer or its authorized service network. The instructions above differ, so they cannot establish what is allowed for an unidentified washer.
- Disconnect and drain it as directed. Manufacturer instructions include shutting off the water, disconnecting the supply and drain hoses, draining residual water where directed, and unplugging the washer. Secure the hoses and power cord so they cannot snag. Follow your model’s procedure; the details vary.
- Fit the correct transport hardware if required. Some front-load washers use shipping or transit bolts to stabilize components during transport. Install the model-specific bolts exactly as the manual says. Whirlpool says not to reuse its transport bolts and directs owners to service for new ones; Maytag recommends an authorized technician for installation.
- Move it in an approved orientation. Keep the washer upright unless official instructions for that exact model explicitly allow another position. An appliance trolley or straps can help with handling but do not change the manufacturer’s orientation instructions. Bosch recommends securing the washer when using a trolley. If you are unsure you can move the appliance safely, Bosch suggests contacting a professional mover.
- Set it up before washing. Follow the manual for leveling, reconnecting hoses, removing transport hardware and any first-cycle procedure. One Bosch manual specifies running the Drain program after transport and proper installation, before the first wash; that step should not be assumed for every washer.
What to do if the washer has already been laid down
Do not assume it is safe to run solely because it appears undamaged, and do not assume damage has occurred. Check the exact model’s manual or contact its manufacturer or authorized service for instructions before use. Reinstall or remove transport hardware only as the manual directs, then complete the specified setup and first-cycle steps.
Quick Recap
Bestseller No. 2
Rank #4
TruePower 2-Person Furniture Moving Straps, 700 lbs Capacity, Safety Yellow
- What’s Included: Two 3‑inch forearm lifting straps (standard‑length) supports up to 700 lbs for safe handling of heavy and bulky objects
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ArmDolly Moving Straps - 2-Person Lifting and Moving System - Lift, Carry and Move Heavy Furniture and Appliances Easily, Fast, and Safely - by ShoulderDolly
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- Back Support That Protects Your Spine: Designed with an ergonomic lever system and padded vest-style back support, these moving straps for lifting help reduce strain on your back and shoulders. The reinforced 4-corner structure keeps weight evenly balanced, making heavy lifting safer and more controlled
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#1 Best Overall
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Moving Straps Lifting（Padded） one Person 2-Person Lifting and Moving System Appliance,for Harness Moving Mattress Couch Furniture Heavy Things,Suitable Professional Moving Body Strap Wrist Strap
- [Best moving items] There are two ways to use the lifting straps for appliance(arm-mounted and shoulder-mounted). It meets each of your moving needs, makes it easier and safer, and can avoid back pain and strain
- [Multi-purpose] The shoulder strap is especially suitable for carrying office partitions, safes, sofas, hot tubs, mattresses, electrical appliances, heavy paraphernalia, etc.
- [Portable and adjustable] Moving belt is easy to carry and stored in a drawer or toolkit. The adjustable range of the shoulder strap for 2 people is 59in-119in, and the portable for 1 person quickly adjusted from 40 inch to 71 inch
- [Service satisfied] If are not satisfied with our products, please send us an email, we will provide help immediately until you are satisfied
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