How to use lifting straps safely when moving a refrigerator

Part of our guide on furniture sliders safe for vinyl floors

Types of lifting straps suitable for refrigerators

Lifting straps designed for heavy appliances usually have a rated capacity of at least 300 pounds per strap. Two straps are needed to balance a refrigerator, which can weigh between 150 and 350 pounds depending on the model.

Padded lifting straps with shoulder padding reduce discomfort during lifting and help maintain grip. They often have adjustable lengths and hooks or loops to secure around the base.

Forearm forklift straps are another option. They use wide loops that strap around your forearms and the refrigerator base to leverage leg strength rather than back muscles. However, they require practice for balance.

When selecting lifting straps for moving a refrigerator, consider the length of the straps as well. Longer straps, typically ranging from 6 to 10 feet, allow more flexibility in positioning and ease of lifting, especially when navigating stairs or tight spaces. However, excessively long straps can be cumbersome and increase the risk of tripping or tangling. A commonly preferred length is about 8 feet, which balances maneuverability and control. The other half of this decision is how to move a refrigerator in a pickup truck.

In some cases, lifting straps made from synthetic materials like nylon or polyester are favored over cotton due to their higher tensile strength and resistance to moisture. For instance, polyester straps maintain strength even when wet and resist stretching, which helps keep the refrigerator stable during lifting. Choosing straps with these materials can increase safety and reliability during moves.

Step-by-step method to lift a refrigerator with straps

Start by placing one strap around the base of the refrigerator near its center of gravity, ensuring it does not rest on fragile parts like handles or doors.

Thread the strap ends over your shoulders so the refrigerator weight will rest on your legs and shoulders, not your back. Adjust strap length for a snug fit. For the detail, see our notes on selecting the right moving tool.

Bend your knees and squat to grasp the straps firmly, keeping your back straight and the refrigerator close to your body.

Lift by straightening your legs steadily, keeping the load balanced and close. Avoid twisting your torso or bending at the waist during the lift.

Communicate with your lifting partner to coordinate movements and maintain balance throughout the process. For the detail, see our notes on preventing floor scratches during moves.

If the refrigerator has removable parts like doors or shelves, it is advisable to remove them before lifting to reduce weight and prevent internal damage. For example, a standard fridge door can weigh around 20 to 30 pounds, and removing it decreases the overall load and improves balance.

After positioning the straps and squatting, test the lift by slowly raising the refrigerator a few inches off the ground to check for secure grip and balance before proceeding to lift fully. This small check helps identify if the straps are slipping or if adjustments are needed, preventing accidents mid-lift.

1. Position straps under refrigerator base, avoiding fragile parts.
2. Place straps over shoulders, adjust length snugly.
3. Squat with knees bent, back straight, grasp straps firmly.
4. Lift using legs, keep refrigerator close and balanced.
5. Move slowly, communicating with partner.

How to secure a refrigerator in a moving truck using straps

Once the refrigerator is inside the moving truck, securing it prevents shifting that can cause damage or injury. Use ratchet straps rated for 500 pounds or more for stability. We cover avoiding damage moving piano stairs in its own article.

Position the refrigerator upright close to the truck wall, ideally on a nonslip mat to reduce movement.

Loop ratchet straps over the refrigerator horizontally at both top and bottom, attaching the hooks to the truck's anchor points.

Tighten the ratchets to firmly hold the refrigerator without crushing it. Check that the appliance cannot wobble or slide after tightening.

Place padding between the refrigerator and truck walls to reduce vibration damage during transit.

• Ratchet straps: rated 500+ pounds for secure hold
• Position fridge upright on nonslip surface
• Attach straps to solid anchor points in truck
• Tighten carefully, avoid deforming fridge
• Use padding to protect appliance finish

Common mistakes to avoid when using lifting straps

Do not wrap lifting straps around refrigerator handles or doors; these parts are not designed to bear weight and may break.

Avoid using lifting straps rated for less than half the total weight of the refrigerator per strap. Underrated straps increase injury risk.

Do not lift the refrigerator alone, even with straps. A second person is necessary to balance and guide the load safely.

Never rush the lift or move quickly while carrying the refrigerator; sudden movements increase the chance of dropping or injuring yourself.

Avoid twisting your body or bending at the waist while carrying the fridge. Always keep it close to your body and use your legs to lift.

• Handles and doors: avoid lifting from these
• Strap rating: must meet at least half appliance weight
• Number of lifters: always at least two people
• Movement speed: lift and move slowly and steadily
• Body mechanics: no twisting or bending at waist

How to choose and use lifting straps specifically for moving a refrigerator

Select lifting straps that are padded, adjustable, and rated at least 300 pounds per strap. Inspect them for wear or damage before use.

Use two straps symmetrically placed under the refrigerator to distribute weight evenly. Avoid sharp corners or edges that can cut the strap.

Practice adjusting and wearing the straps before lifting to ensure comfort and balance. Secure the refrigerator base well without pinching cords or hoses.

Plan the lift path and clear obstacles. Keep communication clear with your partner to coordinate lifting and moving steps smoothly.

After moving, inspect straps and refrigerator for any damage to address before transport.

When using lifting straps on carpeted or uneven surfaces, extra caution is necessary as the footing may be less stable. Wearing shoes with good traction and clearing the pathway of any loose items will reduce the chance of slips or falls. For example, lifting on a smooth concrete floor may require different foot positioning compared to a carpeted stairwell.

If the refrigerator has power cords or water lines attached, ensure these are unplugged and safely secured away from the lifting area. Straps should not pinch or compress these cords, as damage could cause electrical hazards or leaks. For example, loosely coiling the cord and taping it to the back of the appliance prevents interference during the lift.

• Strap specs: padded, adjustable, 300+ lb rating
• Placement: symmetrical under base, away from edges
• Pre-lift practice: adjust straps for comfort and fit
• Clear path: plan route, remove obstacles
• Post-move check: inspect straps and appliance

How to secure a refrigerator properly to avoid damage during the move

Securing a refrigerator properly avoids costly damage to both the appliance and vehicle. The refrigerator should be upright to maintain compressor fluid distribution.

Use ratchet straps attaching to the truck’s anchor points, placed at both the top and bottom of the refrigerator for stability.

Place moving blankets or foam padding between the refrigerator and truck walls to prevent scratches and absorb vibrations.

Check strap tightness periodically during stops on a long move to ensure the refrigerator stays firmly in place.

Keep the refrigerator set upright throughout the move; laying it down risks compressor failure.

• Keep refrigerator upright to protect compressor
• Use heavy-duty ratchet straps at top and bottom
• Add padding between fridge and truck walls
• Periodically check strap tightness during transit
• Avoid laying refrigerator flat during transport

Questions people still ask

Having moved multiple heavy appliances myself, I know the importance of the right straps and technique to avoid injury or damage.