Moving appliances is a big job.  Before you start, be sure you are aware of the work involved and that you really want to be the one to do it.  Some of us are handy with installations and large unwieldy hulks of metal and some of us aren’t. To decide what type you are, read on and then either go for it yourself, or hire someone to help you out.

The first step in moving an appliance is disconnecting it from its power and water sources.  Some disconnections, such as natural gas lines, should be handled only by qualified technicians.  Even if you decide to hire a mover, preparing for the move is something you can do.  After the appliance is disconnected, has properly disconnected them, make sure your appliance is clean and dry.

Other tips from Better Homes and Gardens include:

If you’re moving the appliances to a new home, on moving day load major appliances into the truck first. This ensures that the center of gravity will be closest to the driver, where it belongs. NOTE: If you don’t have an appliance dolly to do this safely, you can rent one from truck rental companies, hardware stores, and home centers.
Also, check to see if you saved the appliance installation instructions that you’ll need to reinstall the appliance. If not, call a local appliance dealer or the manufacturer for a new copy. You may also be able to find this information on the manufacturer’s web site.
You’ll also want to be prepared to protect the surfaces of appliances when you move them. Even simply moving an appliance in the remodeling process raises the possibility of scratching and denting. Especially when moving appliances from one home to another, be sure to have plenty of blankets and towels to protect the surfaces; also have stretch cords to hold the blankets in place.

The following tips for specific appliances are from Maytag:

Washing Machine

• Disconnect washer from electrical supply.
• Shut off the water supply and disconnect inlet hoses from their hot- and cold-water faucets, taking care not to lose the small piece of screening fitted in the end of each inlet hose. Have a bucket handy to catch water remaining in the hoses. Clean screen of sediment.
• Remove drain hose from the standpipe; empty drain hose of any remaining water.
• When you call the dealer for cartons, ask for the plastic shipping ring that fits inside the washer lid and holds the washer tub in place.
• Tape washer lid closed with several pieces of masking tape.

Dryer

• Disconnect from power source. Move dryer away from the wall and disconnect venting material.
• If the dryer operates on gas, contact a gas technician to shut off gas and disconnect the gas line in accordance with local codes. On electric models, be sure you take the power cord with you. Tape door shut.
• Disassemble the venting system and clean it — animals and insects are drawn to the warm air when the appliance is running and may have made a nest in opening.
• Remove any lint buildup. Be sure not to use any plastic venting or other combustible ductwork in your new home.

Dishwasher

• Unplug the appliance and close the water shut off valves. Remove the lower access panel below the door to disconnect electric and water lines.
• Remove the lower access panel below the door to disconnect electrical connections, if you are comfortable doing this; otherwise, contact an appliance service company to do this work.
• Disconnect the water lines and drain line, keeping a towel and small bucket handy for water spillage.
• Open doors and unscrew the mounting brackets to free from countertop.
• Make sure all racks are empty, then latch door securely. Once the appliance is free of the cabinets, you may wish to use masking tape to ensure the door is secure.
• Bring leveling legs up into the appliance and pull dishwasher slowly from opening. To keep the appliance from damaging floor, tip the dishwasher back slightly, slip a large piece of cardboard under it, and gently slide the appliance out.

Range

• Have a technician shut off gas and disconnect range from gas line and/or electrical power.
• Remove broiler pan and racks from oven; on gas range, remove surface grates. Clean storage drawer below.
• On ranges with standard gas burners, lift the top and secure burners to burner box support rod. On electric ranges, tape coil elements to the top of range.
• Remove or tape down all knobs. If a knob is stuck, insert a washcloth behind the knob to help dislodge it. Tape the oven door shut.

Refrigerator

• Turn off the refrigerator according to the instructions, and unplug it. You may have to move it out slightly from the wall to do this.
• If you have a water dispenser, a plumber may be needed to disconnect it. If you want to attempt doing this yourself, be sure to carefully follow the instructions in your owner’s manual.
• Empty all contents and clean the inside of the refrigerator, including all bins and racks.
• Thoroughly clean the outside and back of the appliance.
• Remove refrigerator handles only if the appliance doesn’t fit through the door of your old or new home.
• Tape doors shut securely with masking tape or duct tape, and remove toe board.

It’s all pretty straightforward, plan ahead, get your supplies in order and make sure you are physically ready for a day of heavy lifting.