Technology is an integral part of our modern lifestyles, and when you are packing up for a move, your electronics should be carefully packed away as part of the moving process as they are prone to damage.
Since your computers, TVs, tablets, stereos, and video gaming systems are investments that can be expensive to replace, you need to take the time to properly secure and protect these devices while you move to your new home.
Our local Tampa Bay movers at Florida’s Best Moving share their top tips for safely packing and moving your electronics so they make it to your new space safe and sound.
Gather Packing Supplies
If the original packaging that your electronics came in is not available, gather the essential packing materials that you will need such as:
- Sturdy cardboard boxes in a variety of sizes
- Packing tape and dispenser (or scissors)
- Markers for labeling boxes
- Packing paper, bubble wrap, etc. for wrapping
Now, let’s get packing!
Packing a TV
When packing your TV, wrap it with a soft cloth to prevent scratching while also offering padding and protection.
Don’t panic if you didn’t keep the TV’s original packaging. While the inserts and box are the best fit for your specific TV, you can make do without them. If your TV is under 60 inches, you can purchase flatscreen packing kits which include all the same protective materials, or you can make your own with a large sturdy cardboard box and enough Styrofoam or bubble wrap to cover every corner, the screen, and the back.
If your TV is larger than 26 inches, always keep it upright when packing and moving.
Packing Laptops & Tablets
When packing computers, laptops, and tablets, use multiple forms of protection. Putting them in a carrying case is not enough.
To pack, stick the laptop or tablet in a protective sleeve to help prevent scratching. From there, wrap it up in bubble wrap or a blanket, and then place it in a carrying case.
Just because tablets and laptops are small doesn’t mean that they should be thrown in with other electronics. It is best to have these small electronics travel with you in your vehicle, as putting them into the moving truck could be a disaster, no matter how carefully you packed them.
If you need help packing large or fragile items, our packing pros at Florida’s Best are here to help! Give us a call today; 813-485-6580!
Moving Tips for Other Electronics
Follow these tips to ensure ALL your electronics make it to your new home in one piece!
Take Out Batteries Before Packing
If any of your electronic devices require batteries, take them out before packing them away. The same goes for printers with ink cartridges!
Due to fluctuations in temperature during the move, batteries could overheat, and ink could leak, so it’s better to be safe than sorry. For devices like computers or DVD players, eject contents such as CDs or DVDs ahead of time so they do not get damaged or lost.
Carefully Package and Label Boxes
When packing up electronics, place a layer of bubble wrap on the bottom, sides, and top of the box for ultimate protection. Wrapping each device in bubble wrap can also protect these valuables from unexpected damage.
Seal your packing boxes by wrapping packing tape around the top, bottom, and sides to ensure that the box is secure and won’t open in transit.
Now that you’ve taken the time to properly package your electronics, make sure that they are extensively labeled! Write “Fragile” or “This Side Up,” on every side of the boxes, but be vague if you think it’s necessary. Rather than writing TV or Computer on the box, write something like “Office Supplies” or something along those lines, which can help deter thieves during the move.
Cords, Remotes, & Chargers, Oh My!
When it comes time to reconnect all your electronics in your new home, you can avoid wasting time and the annoyance of not having the right charger, cord, or remote by properly labeling these items when you pack.
Before moving, identify which cable or remote goes to which piece of electronic equipment and label them accordingly. You might want to color-code them, zip tie them to the electronic device, or tape a Ziploc bag with the correct charger/cord to the back of your electronics to make reconnection foolproof.
Label it!> Label Systems for a Smooth Move
When arriving at your new home, unload electronic items first, and put them in a safe place.
Be Conscious of Temperature
Though it is ideal to move when the weather is dry and fair, we all know that the weather is impossible to control. Electronics are particularly sensitive to heat and cold, so, if possible, don’t leave them in the moving van for too long. Instead, place them in your car on the day of the move so they will be in a safe, climate-controlled space for the duration of the trip to your new home.
Don’t lose it> How to Avoid Losing Items in a Move
Protect Your Electronics with Florida’s Best
We know how important electronics are to our everyday lives, which is why it is crucial to pack these devices properly before your move. By taking the right precautions and choosing our pros at Florida’s Best Moving, transitioning your electronics to your new home will be a stress-free plug-n-play experience! P.s. We can help you pack too!
Ready for a moving quote? Fill out the quote form below or give our friendly team a call; 813-485-6580!