Shipping Washing Machines

Washing Machines

Washing machines are necessary for all of us, and good housekeeping everywhere. As usual, a considerable demand for household appliances like washing machines is increasing. For instance, the need for washing machine appliances rose from $40.14 billion in 2015 to $45.69 billion in 2019, showing a sharp increase in demand yearly. The upward trend is not going away, and as a shipper, you must be on top of your game! 

With such high demand for these appliances, understanding how to package and ship them correctly is critical to both their safety and the satisfaction of your customers. Your customers care that you can ship their washing machines carefully and efficiently from Point A to Point B without any damages or hiccups along the way. To ensure the best experience possible for your customers, you must take proper care of packaging, labeling, and securing your shipment while working with your FreightCenter agent to ensure your shipment meets all necessary paperwork/documentation and hazmat requirements.  

Shipping washing machines domestically or internationally is a breeze when you partner with a trusted 3PL like FreightCenter. Our expert team will schedule and book your shipment, ensuring compliance and answering all shipment-related questions. Are you unsure about how to even package your washing machines for shipment? Luckily, washing machine packaging is straightforward when following the steps described in this article. Below, you will learn the process of shipping washing machines from A to Z, proper packaging methods, and what to expect from the compliance side of the process (paperwork and potential regulations and requirements). Read on for information on turning a seemingly overwhelming process into a simple task!  

Shipping Washing Machines

When preparing washing machines for shipment, it is essential to remember the following steps. Following this process will help ensure you have a successful shipment!

• Cleaning 
• Disabling
• Securing Attachments
• Packing Appliances 
• Shipping Labels
• Palletizing
• Paperwork/Hazmat
• White Glove Services

*Before following the steps on this list, ensure the washing machine is empty before doing any shipping prep work, such as cleaning. 

Cleaning

Cleaning your washing machines to prep for shipping is a crucial part of the process. Your customer expects a top-quality product and a dusty machine will not do. Thoroughly cleaning these appliances is necessary for old and new washing machines, and taking the time to do so will leave a great impression on the retailer or customer. To clean the machine’s exterior, use a non-abrasive cloth an appropriate cleaning solution, and start scrubbing!

 Different appliances require different cleaning methods, and the procedures for cleaning the interior of a washing machine are unique. Read the steps below carefully: 

1. First, gather white vinegar and baking soda. Then, put them both into the drum of the washing machine. 
2. Next, use a nylon brush to scrub the interior of the drum.
3. Select the hottest temperature setting possible on your washing machine.
4. Now run the heaviest wash cycle allowed, using only the cleaning solution in the drum.

Disabling Power

For obvious reasons, turn off the washing machine’s power. Make sure the appliance is not in operation and is switched off. Then, disconnect it from the water source. The valves controlling the water source are usually on the wall behind the washer. Once the water source is disconnected, remove the hoses of the washer. Drain the hoses completely to get rid of any leftover water. Not doing this step properly can lead to leaks in the washing machine box, making it soggy. This consequence is the last thing you want to happen, so proceed with caution. 

• Call a plumber or handyman if you are uncomfortable disconnecting the power source or draining the hoses. It will pay off to pay for any help you need with this process.

Securing Attachments

One of the unique challenges in shipping washing machines is securing the drum for transit. The drum is likely to swing around, which can cause damage to both the drum and the washing machine. Securing the drum safely can be made possible with these simple solutions:

• Utilizing shipping or transit bolts
• Applying foam to the inside of the drum (if it came with the machine)
• Placing foam boards or cardboard inside the drum 
• Secure the washer door shut with appliance-friendly tape.

Packing Appliances

1. First, measure the dimensions of the washing machine to ensure it will fit in the shipping box. Knowing the proper measurements will help determine how much packing material you need.
2. Use stretch tape to close any doors or hatches.
3. Wrap the appliance in any packing material, and ensure you have enough material to cover the whole product.
4. Place the machine in a fitted box, using assistance from another person or two.
5. Use packaging materials to fill the empty spaces between the fitted box and the appliance.
6. Place the first box with the washing machine into a slightly larger box. Fill empty spaces between the second and first boxes with packing materials. It may be necessary to bubble or foam wrap around the control panels to prevent damage.
7. Stainless steel must be protected from abrasion once the appliance is cleaned and disconnected. Flexible propylene foam (1/16 to ¼ in thickness) with excellent surface protection and no additives is essential. Secure the foam with a tape that does not transfer an adhesive to the appliance’s surface.

• Be extremely careful when attempting to pack appliances, and always obtain the help of another person or two. Do not attempt to package a washing machine yourself; seek help from others.