How to Carry a Refrigerator on a Dolly

When you think of moving a refrigerator from one place to another, you generally only take time to consider the easiest way to do so. How many doors do you have to go through? How are you going to get it up, and over those front steps? Besides these questions, you should also spend time thinking about the safest and most efficient way to carry a refrigerator on a dolly.

1. First: Make sure the strap on the dolly is adequate

   Using a strap to secure the refrigerator to the dolly helps maintain stability while on the move. Check that the strap is long enough to go all the way around the refrigerator. Examine the strap for fraying or rips. Do not forget to check that the clasp on the strap is in the locked position before attempting to move an item.

2. Second: Before your first steps

   Here are a few suggestions for beginning the move. First, do not leave any obstructions in the path of the dolly. After shifting the weight of the refrigerator from the floor to the dolly, establish the carrying angle. This varies depending on your height. Balance the load so you do not fall backwards or tip forward. Ideally, the person using the dolly is roughly the same height as the refrigerator and capable of handling the weight alone. If this is not the case, get another person to hang on to the other handle of the dolly. Make sure you can see where you are going, or use a spotter.

3. Third: During the transport

   Now that you are ready to begin the move there are a couple of things to remember. Take even strides to balance the load. Do not attempt to speed through door thresholds or over small bumps; you could lose your grip. If you have to go up steps or a ramp, turn the dolly around so you go up backwards. Rely on your legs, rather than your back, as much as possible. Go slow, getting the refrigerator moved is not worth straining your back.