There’s a lot to think about when moving and the smaller you make the job, the better. Moving major appliances like a refridgerator need some extra packing steps to make sure they arrive safely and unbroken, so you may want to consider leaving them at your old home.

Before you draw up the contract with your buyer to include or not include your appliances, here are some key things to consider:

  1. Does the new home come with appliances?
    If not, you are left with two choices: bring your old ones with you or buy all new appliances.
  2. How old are your old appliances?
    If your old appliances are still under warranty or are still in great working order, you may want to get a few more years out of them at your new home. If any have really had it, you may want to ask your buyer if they want them, or you’ll need to take them to the landfill. Some appliances with few working parts, like freezers, are probably worth bringing, as they do last well.
  3. Do you have the budget for all-new appliances?
    Moving is expensive, and adding several thousand dollars to the tab for shiny new appliances may make for some sticker shock once the bills arrive.
  4. Will your old appliances physically fit in your new home?
    If you have appliances that are still perfectly good, take a tape measure with you when you visit your new home and ensure everything will fit. Most modern homes work with standardized sizing but older homes or new micro condos may have issues. It only takes minutes and can save headaches. Don’t forget to think about how you’ll move basement appliances, like freezers, washers and dryers, will fit down narrow basement stairs. That giant deep freeze may not be manoeverable around a 90 degree turn if the stairs are narrow.
  5. Will your old appliances go with the look of your new home?
    This is only a cosmetic consideration, but for many homeowners it’s important. If you have sleek and futuristic appliances and are moving to an old farmhouse in the country, the kitchen may end up looking like it doesn’t know what time period it wants to be in.
  6. Are your old appliances energy efficient?
    Getting new appliances is a chance to upgrade to ones that use less energy or water.
  7. Are there technical issues, like gas line hookups?
    If you can’t live without your chef-quality gas stove, you will want to ensure your new home has a gas line in the kitchen, or be prepared to pay for the installation.
  8. Are you moving overseas?
    Moving overseas almost always means leaving major appliances behind because of cost. For your favourite coffee maker, a voltage adaptor will mean you can bring your morining lifesaver along for the trip.

As with everything to do with moving, the keys are to plan ahead and to ask questions.

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