How to Move a Large Refrigerator Upstairs

Remove the contents of the refrigerator and freezer. Unplug the refrigerator, and allow the freezer to defrost entirely. This may take several hours to complete, depending upon the specific refrigerator model. Dry up any water with towels.

Use masking tape to keep the refrigerator's drawers and doors in place. Bring the electrical cord over the top of the refrigerator and tape to the door to keep it from becoming tangled during the move.

Place one hand on each side of the refrigerator. Walk the refrigerator toward you, into the open space. Undo the hand truck's nylon straps. The hand truck, sometimes known as an appliance dolly, with both its top and bottom straps, will support the weight of a large refrigerator tightly.

Move the hand truck's lift to the left side of the refrigerator. Two people should cautiously pull the refrigerator toward them while another person slides the lift under the refrigerator's raised edge. Lower the refrigerator onto the lift.

Secure the nylon straps around the top and bottom of the refrigerator firmly. Tighten the strap around the very center of the refrigerator if your hand truck is equipped with only one strap. Use your foot to push on the bottom of the hand truck while bringing it toward you about 30 degrees. The person assisting you should hold the refrigerator in place, slowly pushing it toward you so it tilts with the hand truck.

Walk the refrigerator upstairs, with your back to the stairs and the refrigerator in front of you. Maintain a firm grip on the hand truck's handles and keep it tilted toward you. Pull the hand truck over each step while one or two people steady the refrigerator, gently pushing it each time you pull the hand truck.

Position the refrigerator in its new location. Remove all tape and plug the cord into a wall outlet. It may take up to 72 hours for the refrigerator to return to its normal temperature. Add your contents to the refrigerator and freezer sections when the temperature is adequately cool.