Appliance delivery and installation guide

Appliance delivery service overview

How appliance delivery works can depend on the retailer or manufacturer you’re buying from, but you can expect the process to follow the same general pattern. Keep reading to learn more about how delivery, installation and haul-away services work.

Delivery service

Standard delivery usually means your appliance is brought to your home and placed either inside the entryway or in the room of your choice, then removed from packaging for you to inspect. Standard delivery doesn’t typically include uninstalling and hauling away your old model or installing your new one, but you may be able to add this service separately.

Installation service

If you'd like installation, be sure to request it before delivery, as it’s not generally included with standard delivery service and often includes an extra fee. Installation service typically includes moving the new appliance into position, connecting it to existing electrical, gas or water hookups (when applicable), and running basic function tests to make sure it’s operating smoothly.

Keep in mind that, in some areas, built-in appliances (or at times, those requiring a gas connection) may not be eligible for installation by delivery service providers due to local laws and regulations.

Haul-away service

Haul-away service is an optional add-on—usually for an additional fee—where your service provider removes your old appliance from your home when they come to deliver your new model. If you’ve ordered haul-away service, you’ll usually need to make sure that your appliance is completely empty with no other furniture or personal items obstructing access and removal.

Appliance delivery checklist

It can be helpful to run through a quick checklist prior to delivery day to confirm measurements, verify utilities and get your old appliance ready to haul away. First, confirm the dimensions of your new appliance, and ensure it will fit properly in the intended location, then follow the checklist below to help prepare for your delivery: 

* Checklist offers general guidance only, please consult delivery service and/or your owner’s manual for specific installation instructions, and always ask another person to help you move heavy appliances. Get professional help with electrical or plumbing if it involves complicated procedures such as installing new equipment.

Measure the space and delivery path

Preparing for delivery day requires more than measuring your new appliance’s intended location and new model dimensions. You’ll need to consider hallways, stairwells and tight turns that may restrict access to your appliance’s final location. Confirm that the width, height and depth of each point along the delivery path can accommodate your new appliance dimensions. Also allow for clearance so movers can safely maneuver and place the unit.

Confirm utilities 

You can likely opt into installation as part of your delivery service, but you’ll need to make sure that utility hookups—like gas, electric or water—are set up and ready to go prior to delivery, and that they’re up to code and compliant with local regulations. This may require the help of a professional. Also make sure that there are nearby electrical outlets that are compatible with your new appliance plug.

Get the old appliance ready for haul-away

If you’ve added uninstall and haul-away service to your delivery, you usually just need to empty the appliance and make sure there’s a clear path for removal. Your appliance may be disposed of, donated or recycled.

If you haven’t added uninstall service but requested haul-away, you’ll need to do a bit more prep, including turning off the power, water or gas, then disconnecting the lines and hoses before pulling the appliance out (with help) so it’s ready for pickup.

Delivery day expectations

How to prepare for appliance delivery may vary slightly depending on which appliance you’ve purchased. Learn how to prep your space for delivery and get a better idea of the process from start to finish by appliance type, below.  

Arrival, timing, testing and sign-off

On delivery day, make sure an adult is available to receive and inspect the appliance. The delivery team will typically protect finished floors, place the appliance in the designated location and remove packaging for inspection.

If you’ve opted to add installation services, your service provider will connect the appliance and verify that it's operating properly. Before signing off, you’ll have an opportunity to inspect the appliance carefully and report any damage right away.

Refrigerators, dishwashers and washers

Before your fridge, dishwasher or washer delivery arrives, make sure your existing hookups are compatible with your new appliance. For a standard refrigerator model, you’ll likely need a 3-prong, 115-volt outlet.  Many dishwasher models require a 120-volt, 3-prong outlet, and washers often require a 3-prong, 120-volt outlet, as well as cold and hot water faucets within four feet of the washer water fill valves.

Keep in mind that hookup requirements may vary by model, so be sure to reference the owner’s manual for your new model to make sure hookups are compatible. In any case, be sure the installation location is free of obstructions like furniture or personal belongings, and the area is wiped down before your delivery arrives.

Ranges, cooktops, wall ovens and dryers

Before your range, cooktop, wall oven or dryer delivery arrives, make sure your existing utility connections match the requirements of your new appliance. Check your product specs for specific installation requirements first, but often the following holds true: Electric ranges usually require a 250-volt circuit with a 3- or 4-prong cord, while electric dryers typically require a dedicated 240-volt outlet with either a 3- or 4-prong connection. Electric or induction cooktops, and wall ovens, typically require at least 240 volts, while gas cooktops require a designated gas line.

Gas dryers often operate on a standard 3 or 4 prong, 120-volt outlet, and gas ranges typically need a 110-volt outlet. Before delivery day, clear the installation area of any obstacles, and make sure the space is clean and ready for your new appliance.

Appliance delivery and installation FAQs

Being prepared on delivery day can help the process run smoothly. Read on for answers to common questions about appliance delivery and installation. 

Can delivery and installation happen on different days?

Whether you can schedule separate appointments for delivery and installation may depend on your location, delivery service and appliance purchase. For instance, some delivery providers won’t install built-in or gas appliances in certain areas, depending on local regulations, so you may need to hire a licensed professional following delivery.  Check with your delivery service provider to find out how to schedule delivery and installation.

How do you protect floors during appliance delivery?

Delivery teams may use floor guards, sliders or moving blankets to reduce the risk of scuffs and scratches. Clear pathways and protective materials can help minimize the risk of damage to your flooring.

Will the team remove doors, trim or railings if needed for delivery?

Sometimes delivery teams will remove doors or handles with your approval if it helps fit the appliance through tight spaces, but they’re not likely to remove interior doors, handrails, banisters, screen doors or your personal items.

Should you tip appliance delivery and installation teams?

Tipping is always optional. You may consider tipping for difficult installs or heavy lifting situations, but you could encounter delivery teams with a company policy against tipping. It’s really up to you. Gestures like a positive review or a simple thank-you can also help show appreciation for your delivery team.

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