How to Pack Electronics for a Long-Distance Move

If you’re moving soon, chances are you have electronics like computers, laptops, tablets, TVs, gaming systems, and stereos to pack and load up.

These electronics are part of today’s households and are typically very fragile! It’s essential to take special care when handling them and packing them up for your move.

If you’ve never packed electronics before, here are some tips for packing your electronics safely.

Tips on Packing Electronics

Electronics such as computers and gaming systems are delicate. For this reason, you want to make sure that you pack them properly. The last thing that you want is for them to break en route!

Here are some things to consider.

1. Get Packing Materials

Use the original electronics’ packaging, if possible. Many come with custom inserts and foam pieces that will prevent the electronic item from shifting during the move.

If you don’t have the original packing material, gather the following packing materials to pack your electronics properly.

• Double-walled cardboard boxes
• Bubble wrap or other anti-static packing materials
• Packing paper
• Packing tape
• Permanent markers
• Sealable bags
• Twist ties

2. Take Pictures

Take photos on your phone of how the cords are connected to each device. These will come in handy when it’s time to reassemble and set them up at your new place.

3. Detach All Cords 

Make sure to detach all cords and wires from your electronics. Leaving them in can cause damage to the ports, especially if they’re stored in an area without climate control.

4. Keep Accessories Together

Tie the removed cords together with twist ties and put them in baggies. Label the bags and place them in the same box as the electronic device it belongs to. 

5. Remove Anything That Might Be Damaged 

Remove all accessories from your electronics. For instance, it’s a good idea to remove ink cartridges or toners from printers. Consider placing them in a bag and taping them to the item instead.

Similarly, remove any CDs that might be in your device. Pack them separately so they won’t get scratched during the move.

6. Wrap Each Electronic 

Carefully wrap each device with an anti-static material such as bubble wrap. Avoid using anything that might conduct electricity. 

Place a thick layer of crumpled packing paper on the bottom of the box. Once you’ve done that, place the wrapped device into the box. Fill the extra space with wads of packing paper so that the item won’t move around during transportation.

Seal the box and label it. Indicate “FRAGILE” and “THIS SIDE UP” with an up arrow sign on each side of the box.

7. Consider the Temperature 

Electronics are highly sensitive to temperature fluctuations. For one thing, the metal parts can easily contract or expand, both of which can cause damage. 

Not only that, but moisture can also cause short-circuiting. Given that, it’s essential to store your electronics in well-insulated boxes, away from extreme temperatures.

Keeping Your Electronics Safe 

These are some of the ways to keep your electronics safe when packing for a move

Looking for professional moving services? Contact us for more information!