If a newly installed front-loader shakes violently, stop repeating spin cycles and check the transit-bolt removal record. Use the model manual and installer’s checks to decide the next step.
Did it start after installation?
Record whether it began after a move or only with one load. Do not hold a moving washer or inspect behind it while running.
Bolt counts depend on the model
Samsung specifies different shipping-bolt counts for different front-load models. Another model’s photo cannot prove complete removal.
A real manual example: four shipping bolts on the US LG WM4000H*A
This is a document check of pages 11–12 of the US WM4000H*A manual, MFL71728908, Rev.00_070920, checked on 2026-10-24. It is not an installation or vibration test. Do not transfer this bolt count to another model or market.
| What the manual identifies | What to ask the installer to confirm |
|---|---|
| Page 11: four shipping bolts and retainers | All complete bolt assemblies were removed, rather than just loosened |
| Page 11: packing base and drum support on some models | No applicable packing support remains underneath |
| Pages 11–12: hole caps and retained shipping parts | Visible caps alone are not a record that every removal step was completed |
Message to the installer: ‘My full model is ____; installation date ____. Please confirm removal of this model’s transport restraints and packing supports, check the floor, leveling and contact with surrounding objects, and tell me whether it is safe to run again.’ Removing four bolts does not prove that every possible cause of vibration has been resolved.
Page 9 requires two or more people for moving or installation. Do not pull out or tilt the washer alone to inspect it. Keep the removed transport parts for future moves and confirm the model’s reinstallation instructions with the installer.
Prepare an installer handoff
With the machine off, note safely visible observations and installation paperwork. Do not pull out or move a heavy washer alone to complete this table.
If the restraint field is blank, do not treat removal as confirmed. Send the installer the full model label, installation date, before/after-move difference, safely obtainable stopped-machine photos and installation paperwork. Ask whether all model-specific bolts and spacers were removed, whether floor or surrounding contact needs checking, and whether restarting is appropriate.
| Check | Record |
|---|---|
| Onset | After installation / also before |
| Machine | Full model and installation date |
| Restraints | Manual count and removal record |
| Contact | Visible rocking or surrounding contact |
| Outcome | Installer check and restart decision |
Wait for a safe restart
Ask the installer to confirm model-specific bolt and spacer removal when uncertain. Continued impacts or movement mean stopping use and arranging service.
A record that shaking occurs with one load does not prove the shipping restraints are clear. After installation is confirmed, follow the model’s loading and cycle guidance. Adding pads or risers first changes the floor conditions and makes comparison harder.
A worked example
Hypothetical case: the washer was stable before moving but walked during its first spin afterwards. A blank restraint record is a reason to contact the installer before buying vibration pads.
Official sources checked
Official sources checked on 12 October 2026. Apply the cited model and market conditions. Examples are hypothetical records, not hands-on tests.