I'm moving a chest freezer to another house about 10 miles away. The
problem is that it will not fit upright into my hatchback. It would
fit if placed on its side.

I've been told that I must keep it upright at all costs. True?

[There is no food in it and it has been unused (power off) for two
years. Dunno if that has any bearing.]

TIA,

Jon C.