Fridge freezer in removals truck

[whyismykid]

Silly question - We are moving tomorrow, last time we moved it was 300 miles away and all our stuff was in the truck over the weekend so we were instructed to defrost and turn off freezer a few days before. This time it's only a mile and the removal guys didn't mention it - should we turn off the fridge freezer tonight and hope the ice melts over night? Or keep it on and jut plug it back in when we unload it at the other end. It's our back up - kept in the garage - and there isn't much in it...

Unplug it just before it's loaded. Then plug it in when you get to your new house. Tape it shut. Good luck

I think (not a 100%) that as long as it doesn't get tilted or turned on its side you should be fine to leave plugged in til last minute, and then just plug in when you get there as would all stay cold with door shut.
But if it needs to be tipped or laid flat then you won't be able to switch it on straight away at new place (I think it's for 24hours?)so food would possibly start to defrost.

Thanks, both useful bits of advice!

Be careful! We moved in August, only a mile but hired a removal firm, and in their T&Cs it specifically stated they would only move freezers if fully defrosted and emptied. I queried this due to the short distance but they were adamant it’s their policy.

Best to let it stand without running it for 12-24hrs before moving it and after it's in its final position before turning it on again regardless of how far you are moving it. This allows the refrigerants to settle and the whole thing is less likely to stop working. It's often not a problem if you don't, but the risk is there.

I'd defrost it. It could easily end up being in the truck for hours, especially if it goes in first and comes out last, or longer if something goes wrong with the move. Plus the 24 hours settling post-move as mentioned above.

Just checked the Ts&Cs - empty and defrost! It's off - and 12 hours 35 minutes before the Truck arrives so will hopefully defrost in time!