Moving Guide

What Kind of Dolly to Buy

Published September 25, 2012 · Written for MovingGuru readers since 2013

Which dolly for which job

A hand truck carries boxes and upright loads on two wheels. A furniture dolly is a flat four wheel platform for sofas, dressers and crates. An appliance dolly is a heavier hand truck with a strap and stair glides for refrigerators and washers. Most household moves need a hand truck, and stairs or appliances are what push you to the other two.

What is a dolly?

Dollies are platforms on wheels.  They are essential for moving heavy and large things, especially when you don’t have a bunch of people to help you, and sometimes even when you do.

Anyone thinking about pulling a do-it-yourself move should seriously consider buying a dolly.  However, even those who are hiring a moving company should own one for the future, because you never know when you’ll need to move your fridge or couch.

Types of Dollies

There are two basic types of dollies: appliance dollies and furniture dollies.

Furniture dollies are short and broad, square platforms on wheels.  They are often covered in carpeting to prevent scratching and reduce friction.  They are best for large furniture:

Four wheel furniture dolly

Appliance dollies are more slender and have handles. While they aren’t as good for large furniture due to their size, they are great for smaller items and are easier to control than furniture dollies:

Two wheel appliance dolly

Hand truck, furniture dolly and appliance dolly

TypeBest forStairsNotes
Hand truckStacked boxes, tall narrow loadsWorkable with care and a second personThe default for most moves
Furniture dollySofas, dressers, crates, long carriesNot for stairsFastest way across flat ground
Appliance dollyRefrigerators, washers, dryers, safesDesigned for it, with straps and glidesRent rather than buy for one move
Convertible hand truckMixed loads, tight spacesWorkableTwo tools in one, heavier to handle

Capacity and stairs

Check the stated load rating and stay below it, because the rating assumes a balanced load on level ground. Stairs are where injuries happen: never take an appliance down stairs alone, keep the heavy end downhill, strap the load properly, and move one step at a time.

Appliances and furniture

Refrigerators need emptying, defrosting and securing, and many should stand upright for a period before being switched on again, so follow the manufacturer's instructions. Furniture travels better wrapped in blankets and strapped to the dolly rather than balanced on it.

Rent or buy

For one move, renting an appliance dolly with the truck is usually cheaper and saves storing it afterwards. Buying makes sense for a basic hand truck you will use again. Either way, price the alternative: a crew with the right equipment often costs less than a damaged floor or a strained back. Compare moving quotes, and read tips for moving on your own and packing supplies you should use.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a hand truck and a dolly?
A hand truck stands upright on two wheels and carries loads tilted back. A furniture dolly is a flat four wheel platform that carries a load level.
What dolly do I need for a refrigerator?
An appliance dolly, which has a ratchet strap and stair glides. Never move a refrigerator down stairs without a second person.
Should I rent or buy a dolly for one move?
Renting with the truck is usually the cheaper option for a single move, especially for an appliance dolly.

Filed under:Difficult Things to MoveOdds & Ends

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