Moving a commercial refrigerator requires more than just muscle — it demands careful planning, the right equipment, and a clear understanding of how these heavy appliances function. Whether you are relocating your business, upgrading your kitchen, or redesigning your space, moving a commercial refrigerator is a task that must be approached with care to avoid damage, downtime, and costly repairs.
Why Moving a Commercial Refrigerator is Different
Unlike household refrigerators, commercial units are larger, heavier, and more complex. They are built for heavy use in restaurants, grocery stores, and commercial kitchens, and often contain sensitive components such as compressors, cooling systems, and internal electronics. Mishandling these units can lead to malfunction or even permanent damage.
For these reasons, moving a commercial refrigerator requires a step-by-step process that ensures both safety and efficiency.
Step 1: Empty the Contents
The first and most important step is to empty the refrigerator completely. Remove all food items, trays, shelves, and drawers. Perishable items should be moved to another cold storage unit or kept in coolers with ice packs. This not only reduces the weight of the fridge but also prevents spills and damage during the move.
Step 2: Defrost and Clean
After the unit is emptied, unplug it and allow it to defrost. This can take several hours, depending on the model and the amount of built-up ice. Cleaning the inside of the refrigerator after defrosting is also important to prevent mold, mildew, and unpleasant odors.
Step 3: Secure Internal Parts
Once clean and dry, all shelves and internal parts should either be removed or securely taped down. Loose parts can shift during transport and cause internal damage. Use soft padding or blankets to protect fragile parts and interior surfaces.
Step 4: Protect the Exterior
Wrap the entire refrigerator in moving blankets or bubble wrap to protect it from scratches, dents, and impact. Avoid using packing tape directly on the surface, as it can damage the finish. Pay special attention to corners and handles, which are most prone to damage.
Step 5: Use Proper Moving Equipment
Because commercial refrigerators are very heavy (some can weigh over 800 pounds), using an appliance dolly or hand truck is essential. You’ll also need strong straps to secure the fridge to the dolly. When loading into a truck, a liftgate or ramp is usually required. Never try to move a commercial unit alone — at least two or three people should assist.
Step 6: Keep It Upright
One of the most important rules when moving a refrigerator is to keep it upright at all times. Tilting or laying the unit on its side can cause compressor oil to flow into the coolant lines, leading to mechanical problems when restarted. If it must be tilted, let it stand upright for several hours before plugging it in.
Conclusion
Moving a commercial refrigerator requires preparation, patience, and the right tools. With careful planning and proper handling, you can move your unit safely without damaging this valuable piece of equipment. If in doubt, hiring professional movers with experience in commercial appliances is a smart investment.
