Quick answer: Most residential washing machines weigh between 150 and 250 pounds. A standard top-load washer averages around 150–170 lbs, a front-load washer runs 200–250 lbs because of its heavy concrete counterweight, and compact or portable units weigh as little as 50–90 lbs. Commercial machines can exceed 400 lbs.
If you’re planning a move, that weight matters more than most people realize — it affects how you lift it, whether you need a dolly, and what it costs to have movers handle it. Here’s everything you need before moving day.
Washing machine weight by type
| Washer type | Typical weight | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Portable / compact | 50–90 lbs | Fits through most doorways; one person + dolly |
| Standard top-load | 150–170 lbs | Lighter than front-loaders; simpler mechanism |
| High-efficiency top-load | 160–200 lbs | Larger tub, added electronics |
| Front-load | 200–250 lbs | Heavy concrete counterweight adds ~50–70 lbs |
| Washer-dryer combo (all-in-one) | 150–230 lbs | Single unit, awkward to grip |
| Commercial / industrial | 300–450+ lbs | Requires two+ people and appliance equipment |
Why front-loaders are so heavy: front-load washers spin at higher speeds, so manufacturers bolt in a concrete or cast-iron counterweight to keep the machine from “walking” across the floor. That block alone can weigh 50–70 pounds. During a move it usually stays put, but on some models it can be removed to lighten the load — check your manual.
How much does a washer and dryer weigh together?
Since they’re usually moved as a pair, plan for the combined load:
- Top-load washer + electric dryer: roughly 250–310 libs total (dryers are light, ~100–125 lbs).
- Front-load washer + dryer on pedestals: 300–380 lbs, plus the pedestals (~40 lbs each).
Dryers are far lighter than washers because they have no water-holding tub or counterweight — the weight is mostly the drum and cabinet.
Why washer weight matters for your move
1. It changes how you lift it. Anything over ~150 lbs is a two-person job. Never move a washer alone.
2. It affects equipment. You’ll want an appliance dolly (not a standard box dolly), moving straps, and furniture blankets. A regular hand truck can buckle or tip under a loaded front-loader.
3. It affects cost. Professional movers factor appliance weight and handling into estimates. A single washer is rarely a big line item, but a full laundry set moved up or down stairs can add real time — which is why a transparent, no-hidden-fee estimate matters (more on that below).
4. Doorway and stair clearance. Most washers are 27″ wide and need at least a 28–30″ clear path. Measure doorways before moving day, not during.
How to prepare a washing machine for moving (step by step)
- Run a final empty cycle and let it dry out for 24 hours to prevent mold and water leaks in the truck.
- Disconnect and drain the hoses. Shut off the water valves, disconnect the supply and drain hoses, and let residual water empty into a bucket.
- Unplug and secure the cord to the back of the machine with tape.
- Install the shipping bolts (front-loaders only). These transit bolts lock the drum in place so it can’t bounce and damage the suspension. This is the #1 mistake people make — moving a front-loader without them can wreck the machine.
- Wrap it in moving blankets and strap the door shut.
- Load it upright using an appliance dolly, and keep it upright in the truck.
Expert tip: Lost your shipping bolts? Most manufacturers sell replacements for $20–40, and it’s cheaper than a new suspension. Don’t skip them on a front-loader.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a washing machine weigh in kg?
Roughly 68–113 kg for standard residential machines (150–250 lbs).
Can one person move a washing machine?
You can slide a compact unit onto a dolly solo, but lifting or navigating stairs always needs two people. It’s a common source of back injuries.
Do I have to remove the counterweight?
No — for a normal move it stays in. Only consider removing it for extreme weight constraints, and only if your manual allows it.
Is it worth paying movers to handle appliances?
For heavy front-loaders, stairs, or tight doorways, yes. The risk of injury or a damaged $900 machine usually outweighs the modest handling cost.
Moving a washer and dryer? Get it done right.
A washing machine is one of the heaviest, most awkward items in any home — and one of the easiest to damage if it’s moved wrong. If you’d rather not wrestle 250 pounds down a staircase, compare vetted, transparent movers on MovingExperts.com and get a clear, no-hidden-fee quote before you lift a finger.
Related guides: How Much Does a Refrigerator Weigh? · How Much Does It Cost to Move? · How to Pack Dishes for Moving
