Last updated: March 2026
Will a Fridge Fit Up the Stairs?
Enter your fridge dimensions and staircase measurements to plan the delivery — dolly clearance, landings, and turns included.
Whether it fits depends on measurements most people get wrong.
Key Measurement
Fridge width including handles vs. stair width, and fridge height on dolly vs. ceiling clearance
Standard Dimensions
Item: Standard fridge: 30–36" W (with handles) × 67–70" H. On dolly: +6–8" height
Space: Standard residential staircase: 36" wide, 80" ceiling clearance, 36" landing depth minimum
Actual clear openings are usually 1–2″ smaller than the labeled size.
Your exact dimensions probably aren't "standard." Small measurement errors cause big problems — 1 inch can be the difference between fitting and getting stuck.
Related Resources
Verdicts are calculated by comparing all 6 item orientations against the space dimensions using verified building code standards. See our methodology
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1 inch can be the difference between fitting and getting stuck.
“Wish I'd used this before trying to force a fridge up the stairs.” — Lesson learned
Standards Referenced
- IRC R311.7Stairway width, headroom, and riser/tread dimensions View source
- IBC Chapter 10Means of egress — commercial corridor and door widths View source
Measurements verified by the ItemFits engineering team · Based on IRC R311.7, IBC Chapter 10 · Our methodology
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What to Measure
- 1Dolly-plus-fridge height on the stair incline — a stair-climbing dolly adds 6–8 inches, and the 35-degree stair angle tips the fridge back, raising the top even higher toward the ceiling overhang
- 2Fridge total width with handles (add 1–3 inches per side) vs. stair clear width measured at banister-bracket height, not at the open air above the rail
- 3Compressor tilt limit — most manufacturers recommend no more than 45 degrees from vertical; exceeding this forces a 24-hour settling period before powering on
- 4Transit bolt status — if the fridge has been in use, the original shipping bolts are likely discarded, and a stair carry without them risks internal line damage from vibration
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using the spec-sheet height without adding dolly height — a 70-inch fridge on a dolly becomes 76–78 inches and can hit a 78-inch soffit overhang at the stair base
- Tilting the fridge past 45 degrees at a landing turn — this forces compressor oil into the cooling lines, requiring 24 hours upright before the fridge can safely run
- Not removing fridge doors before the carry — doors add 3–5 inches of width and swing open on inclines, catching banisters and doorframes mid-flight
- Underestimating the weight — a full-size refrigerator weighs 200–300 lbs, making a two-person hand-carry on stairs extremely dangerous without a stair-climbing dolly
Frequently Asked Questions
Can delivery drivers carry a fridge up stairs?
Most delivery services include ground-floor delivery only. Stair delivery is often an extra charge ($50–$150 per flight) and some companies refuse stairs entirely. Ask the retailer before ordering. Independent movers with stair-climbing dollies are an alternative.
Should I remove the fridge doors before carrying it upstairs?
Yes — removing fridge doors reduces total width by 3–5 inches, which is significant in a 36" stairway. French door and side-by-side models have hinge pins on top. This also reduces weight by 15–30 lbs per door.
What is a stair-climbing dolly?
A stair-climbing dolly has rotating tri-wheel assemblies that roll the appliance up stairs step by step. They cost $30–$60 to rent and handle fridges up to 300 lbs. The dolly adds 6–8 inches of height, so check ceiling clearance. Electric stair-climbing dollies are also available for heavier loads. If your building has an elevator, check the elevator weight limits first — it may be easier than stairs.
Can I lay a fridge on its side to fit up stairs?
You can briefly tilt a fridge to navigate a landing, but never lay it fully on its side for extended periods. If tilted more than 45°, wait 24 hours before plugging it in so the compressor oil can settle. Modern fridges are more tolerant, but the waiting period is still recommended.