Electronics like TV’s, computers, laptops, tablets, stereo systems and video game systems are integral parts of today’s households and are typically very fragile! If you’re planning to pack your electronics for your move, make sure to take special care when handling them. If you have never packed electronic items before, use the following moving tips to pack your electronics safely.
Get Packing Materials
Start by purchasing the packing materials you will need to properly pack your device
- Thick walled cardboard boxes
- Anti-static packing materials, such as bubble wrap
- Strong packing tape
- Permanent markers
- Sealable bags
- PVC tape
- Twist ties
Disconnect It
Make sure the device is turned off and unplugged from the wall. Since electronic devices must be disconnected and in some cases dismantled before packing, go through the manufacture’s guide to see if there are any special instructions for disconnecting, dismantling and moving. If you no longer have the manufacture’s guide, don’t panic, most companies now have downloadable versions online.
Get Pictures
Take a picture on your phone of how the cords are connected to the device and then disconnect all the cables (power, video, data, etc.), keyboards, and any other devices. You’ll be glad you have the pictures when it’s time to set them up at your new place.
Keep the Accessories Together
Tie the cables and wires with twist ties and place them in sealable bags. Do not forget to label the bags and place the cables and wires in the same box as the electronic device they belong with.
Remove all the portable storage devices, such as CD’s, DVD’s and any external hard drives from the electronic and put them in their cases. Remove ink cartridges and toners from printers, and store them in a sealable bag.
Protect Them
Wrap each device carefully using anti-static bubble wrap or packing peanuts. Do not use any materials that can conduct electricity. Wrap each device separately so that no two devices will rub against each other, which can increase the risk of damage.
Place a thick layer of antistatic bubble wrap at the bottom of the box. If you do not have the original box, you can use thick-walled cardboard boxes. Remember to only put one device in each box.
Carefully place the device in the box. Fill the gaps with bubble wrap or packing peanuts, making sure that there is no space that would allow the device to move during transportation.
Labels Them
Seal the box with tape. Write “FRAGILE” and “THIS SIDE UP” with an up arrow sign on two sides of the box in big bold letters using a permanent marker.
For more tips on how to move your electronics safely check out this moving blog post on how professional movers pack electronics.
