How to Pack Technology for a Move
by Alex Haslam
Whether you’re heading to the next town over or across the country, packing technology for a move and ensuring it arrives at your new home all in one piece can be a challenge. From forgotten cords and instruction manuals to cracked screens, the potential nightmares run the gamut. However, following these tried-and-true tips can help you pack your technology like a pro and avoid damage during your move.
Bubble Wrap Everything
Bubble wrap is a necessity for wrapping valuables and breakables like technology. It’s also inexpensive and readily available. Julia Campbell, a moving expert from Move.org, shares, “Here’s the golden rule when it comes to properly packing electronics: bubble wrap everything. Then stow everything in a well-sized cardboard box (which you’ll later seal with good ol’ duct tape).”
Make sure to bind each device tightly with bubble wrap and seal with a piece of tape. Consider a double layer of bubble wrap if you think the item needs additional protection or has a larger screen.
Fill Boxes with Care
Be careful when layering each item into its box. Even when enveloped in bubble wrap, an item can shift around a lot during a move and may still get damaged. Keep the box filled so nothing can move around.
Also make sure you check the weight of the boxes before sealing them as you don’t want anything to be too heavy to lift or carry. Emil Perushanov, owner of Top Removals, warns, “Be careful not to pack boxes that are too heavy. Not only will they be a literal pain for your movers on moving day, but they’ll be difficult for you to move around while packing.”
Protect Against Scratches
Screens on computers, iPads, and televisions are easy to scratch. While bubble wrap is soft, the plastic can have rough edges.
To avoid scratches on your screens, wrap up your electronics in linen sheets, towels, or thin moving pads before you bubble wrap them—and avoid newspaper at all costs. Newspaper may transfer ink and permanently damage your screen. It can also rip easily and doesn’t offer much padding.
Wrap Cords Separately
While you want to keep all parts of a device together, don’t throw everything into one bag or container. Wrap up all your cords separately to avoid having to untangle a gnarly knot later. For long cords, use twist ties to wrap them.
Next, place each cord into a Ziploc bag and then pair it with its respective device. If you’re worried about them getting separated, tape the bag to the device and label the bag clearly using a Sharpie.
Pack All Manuals
When moving, it’s easy to misplace small but essential items. While packing your technology, check to ensure you have all product manuals and pack them in the bag with the cords to keep them all in one place.
If you’re missing a manual before or after your move, look online. Often, manufacturers offer digital copies of product manuals that you can either print or save to your computer. If you can’t find one online, contact the company’s customer service team to request a copy.
It doesn’t take much to pack your technology for a move. Invest in bubble wrap and, when in doubt, double wrap and pad each item to avoid bumps and cracks. Double check for all cords and manuals, and label everything clearly. Preparing for a move can be a pain, but with these packing tips in mind, you can secure your technology and keep it protected all the way to your new home.
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