What specialized tools are used to secure the internal drum during transit

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For washing machines specifically, there are no specialized commercial tools designed to secure the internal drum during transit. Instead, professional movers use DIY reinforcement methods with common household items to prevent drum movement:

Tools and Materials Used for Washing Machine Drum Security

1. Original Shipping Bolts (Most Critical)

  • Purpose: The factory-installed metal bolts that lock the internal drum to the machine’s frame

  • How They Work: Inserted through the back panel to physically prevent drum suspension from moving

  • Where to Find: Stored behind the plastic cover on the back of the machine when new

  • Importance: Essential – without these, the drum can bounce and damage suspension bearings during transit

2. Heavy Blankets or Towels (Alternative to Shipping Bolts)

  • Purpose: Fill the drum space to prevent internal movement

  • How They Work: Packed inside the washing basket to cushion and immobilize the drum

  • Placement: Fill the basket opening completely, then close and tape the lid

  • When Used: If original shipping bolts are lost or unavailable

3. Foam Packing Ring (From Original Shipping)

  • Purpose: Protect drum interior and prevent movement

  • How They Work: Inserted back into the washer basket before transport

  • When Available: Only if you still have the original shipping materials

4. Masking Tape or Strapping Tape

  • Purpose: Secure the lid and power cord

  • How They Work: Tape runs over the lid and down the front of the washer to keep it closed

  • Placement: Secure lid tightly and tape power cord to prevent dangling

5. Tie Straps (Nylon or Plastic)

  • Purpose: Secure the entire machine during transit

  • How They Work: Wrap around the washer and attach to the moving vehicle or dolly

  • Placement: Fasten machine securely in position to prevent shifting

What NOT to Use

Tool Why It’s Unsafe
Wooden blocks inside drum Can crack the plastic tub
Rigid metal braces May damage suspension springs
Over-tightened straps on drum Can deform the outer casing
Drumclip® or industrial drum ties Designed for chemical drums, not washing machines

Professional Mover’s Complete Drum Security Process

Step 1: Remove all clothes and water from drum
Step 2: Locate original shipping bolts (behind rear plastic cover)
Step 3: Insert all 3-4 bolts through back panel into drum mounting points
Step 4: Tighten bolts securely with screwdriver or wrench
Step 5: If bolts unavailable, pack heavy blankets/towels inside drum
Step 6: Insert foam packing ring (if available)
Step 7: Close lid and tape securely with masking tape
Step 8: Tape power cord to back of machine
Step 9: Secure entire machine with tie straps to dolly/vehicle
Step 10: Transport UPRIGHT ONLY (never sideways or inverted)

Critical Warning

Without shipping bolts correctly installed, the washing machine drum can move violently during transit, causing:

  • Broken suspension springs

  • Damaged drum bearings

  • Cracked plastic tub

  • Motor damage

  • KSh 15,000–40,000 in repair costs

The shipping bolts are the only specialized tool designed specifically to immobilize the internal drum during washing machine transport. If you’ve lost them, professional movers will use heavy blankets as a temporary alternative, but replacement bolts cost only KSh 500–1,500 from appliance parts stores and should be purchased immediately.

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