Moving cleanout guide

Appliance Removal Before a Move: What to Do First

A safe planning order for food, utilities, doors, stairs and the pickup route.

Decide whether the appliance is moving, staying with the property or being removed before anyone disconnects it. Then clear food and personal items, arrange qualified utility work where needed, and check the path to the loading point.

Use the right order

  1. Confirm the appliance is not included in the sale, lease or moving contract.
  2. Empty it completely and remove loose shelves or trays.
  3. Arrange gas, hardwired or water-line disconnection by a qualified person.
  4. Defrost and dry cold appliances early enough to prevent leaks.
  5. Measure the unit, doorways and stair turns.
  6. Protect floors and keep the route clear.

Connections are a separate job

A removal crew should not be assumed to disconnect a gas range, hardwired appliance or plumbing connection. Confirm who owns that step before the appointment. Hoses and cords should be disconnected, drained and secured so they do not catch on stairs or trim.

Refrigerant appliances need special handling

Federal appliance-disposal rules address refrigerant recovery before final disposal. Do not cut lines or attempt to vent refrigerant. Tell the estimator the appliance type so an approved path can be confirmed. The EPA appliance-disposal guide explains the federal requirements.

Access checklist

  • Unit is empty, dry and disconnected
  • Loose shelves and trays are removed or secured
  • Doors and stair route are measured
  • Basement turns and exterior steps are disclosed
  • Building loading rules are confirmed
  • Refrigerant or other special handling is identified

Next step

Use the checklist to make the removal list concrete, then review the companion Pre-Move Cleanout page before calling with the address and access notes.

Turn the checklist into a removal plan.

Call with the address, item list, access details and preferred timing. The estimate should confirm scope before work begins.

Call (202) 555-0115