Moving Your Electronic Devices - Do it Right; Do it Safely!
Ayer Moving

Moving Your Electronic Devices – Do it Right; Do it Safely!

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When it comes to moving various electronic devices – computers, tablets, stereos, televisions, digital recorders, and game systems – individuals often pack these high-cost items more casually than they would an antique or valued piece of art. Even though most electronic devices have sturdy plastic cases, they require special care when being packed for a move. If your move requires a temporary stay in storage, fluctuating temperatures, humidity, and dust can damage sensitive components.

Here’s how to do it right and do it safely!

Preparing for the Move

  • Gather your user manuals or download them from the manufacturer’s website. Manufacturers may have special instructions for packing and moving their devices.
  • Backup all data and files.
  • Remove batteries in remotes or accessories.
  • Eject CDs, DVDs, Blu-rays, and game cartridges and tape the drives shut.
  • Remove toner cartridges from laser printers and place them in a plastic bag – tape the bag to the printer.
  • Detach wires and accessories, place in a plastic bag and label the bag.
  • Place color stickers on each cord and the same color sticker where the cord connects to the device … or use a write on label to indicate what goes where.
  • For extra help in reassembling, for reference take photos of the cables before you unplug everything.
  • Using a vacuum cleaner extension, vacuum the inside of your desktop computer to remove dust.
  • Charge all your rechargeable batteries before moving day.
  • Write the passwords for your electronic devices on a card you can keep in your wallet to avoid frustration when setting up your computers on arrival in your new home.
  • Talk with your mover about insurance for your electronics (and other valuable items) to cover them during loading, moving, and unloading.

Packing for the Move

  • Use original cartons if you saved them when you purchased the equipment.
  • Ask your mover for computer and flat-screen TV cartons or an appropriately sized sturdy box in which to place your electronics. 
  • To minimize damage caused by dust, wrap electronics in linen or clean (unprinted) newsprint. Then use bubble wrap. Anti-static bubble wrap is safe for electronics and can be used generously to act as a shock absorber. However, don’t use newsprint to pack screens. Paper can easily scratch delicate screens. Use fabric and then bubble wrap for extra security.
  • You’ll want at least two inches of padding on all sides of the electronic device. 
  • If you don’t have a special flat-screen TV box, use padded moving blankets to wrap the TV. Never store or move a TV flat; stand it upright against a wall for support.
  • Make a list of all devices in the box with their companion accessories, and cables/cords and store the list in the box.
  • Add packets of silica gel to the box which will absorb excess moisture before it can collect on metal surfaces and cause corrosion. This is especially important for long-distance moves or if your boxes will be in storage.
  • Number, rather than label the box with a description, to reduce the chance of attracting unwanted attention from would-be thieves. If storing, place these boxes out of view toward to back of the storage unit.

When in Storage

Electronic devices are highly sensitive to temperature extremes. Cold causes metal parts to contract, weakening soldered components. LCDs can even freeze during a harsh cold snap. Heat can damage in two ways – as metal parts expand in hot weather, they place stress on soldered connections. Warm air holds more moisture and high humidity is very destructive to electronics. 

Esure that electronics in storage are properly packed and insulated with blankets.

This guideline is detailed by design. The more you plan and follow these steps, the safer and more secure your electronics will be. You’ll be all set to reassemble your electronics and start enjoying these devices that have become such an important part of all our lives.  

If you have any questions about how to pack your electronic devices or need special boxes or packing material, call one of our Ayer Moving and Storage relocation specialists at 800-23-6683.