Most of us cannot afford to lose crucial work-related, personal, and financial information on our computers and tablets. It makes sense that you wish to protect it from theft or harm. Electronics are typically stored considerably more carelessly than delicate antiques or personal photos.
Although printers, gaming consoles, and laptops have sturdy plastic casings to protect them from daily use, they still need to be handled carefully when packed into a box.
One negligent drop by a mover during a move and damage is all but guaranteed. When storing electronics, shifting temperatures, humidity, and dust can seriously damage delicate components. With suitable packing materials and preparation, packing your printer and electronics for a move can be a breeze.
Steps On How Pack Your Printer and Electronics
Most homes and offices feature a printer or an all-in-one device that makes life easier in addition to desktop or laptop computers. Your printer and electronics are only safe with the original box and packing materials used to pack them. Be sure to have plenty of packing supplies on hand before you begin to pack electronic equipment. But how exactly are these sensitive devices supposed to be packed?
It’s a daunting task, we know. But don’t worry, we’re here to help! Here are helpful tips on how you can keep your electronics safe and secure during a move:
Take a backup of all data and files.
This is crucial. Before you do anything, create a backup of all your files on an external hard drive or in the cloud. This will ensure that even if your computer gets lost or damaged during the move, you will still have all your essential data.
Once you have created a backup, reset your devices to their factory settings. This will delete all your data from the device, making it harder for thieves to access your information.
If you have trouble doing this, consult your printer or owner’s manual for instructions.
And don’t forget to pack the cords! Label them clearly so you know which device they go to.
Set up a packing station
It is best to set up a packing station in an area where you have enough space to open up boxes and layout materials. You will need the following packing materials:
- Packing peanuts or crumpled-up paper
- Packing tape
- Labels
- Boxes of various sizes
- Bubble wrap
- Foam wrap
- Airbags
Start by gathering all your electronic devices in one place. This will make it easier to pack electronics and keep track of everything. Label the box of electronic components, laser printers, and metal components as “Fragile” so the movers will know to handle it with care.
Take photos
Before packing your electronics, take photos of each device and electronics storage. This will track everything and ensure nothing gets lost or damaged during the move.
It’s also a tremendous help to take photos of how the cords are arranged. This will save you time and frustration when setting up your electronics in your new home or office.
Remove the batteries
This is important! Remove the batteries from all your devices before packing them up. Batteries can leak acid and damage your electronics.
If you’re unsure how to remove the batteries from your devices, consult the manuals.
And don’t forget to pack the batteries separately from the devices. Label them, so you know which device they go to.
Take out any loose media
Any loose media, such as CDs, DVDs, or SD cards, be removed from your devices before packing them up. These items are fragile and can easily get lost during the move.
Pack them separately in a labeled envelope or container.
Disconnect the wires, cables, and other accessories
All the electronic wires, cables, and accessories should be disconnected from your devices before packing them up. These items can easily get tangled and damaged during the move.
Wrap each cord around a paper towel roll or pool noodle, and secure it with packing tape. This will keep them from getting tangled during the move.
Detach all removable parts
If any devices have removable parts, such as a printer’s paper tray, make sure to detach them before packing up the device. Pack the removable parts separately in a labeled bag or container.
And don’t forget to label the primary device, so you know which removable parts go to it.
Remove toners and ink cartridges
If you have a printer, remove the ink or toner cartridges before packing them. These items can leak and damage your printer and everything around it during the move.
And don’t forget to label the printer, so you know which cartridges go to it.
Prepare the boxes and if possible use the original packaging
Get all the boxes and materials you need for packing before you start. This will make the process go smoothly and help prevent damage to your devices.
If you have the original containers for your devices, use them! The packaging is designed to protect your devices during shipping and will provide the best possible protection during your move.
If you don’t have the original packaging, use sturdy boxes slightly larger than your devices. Label them so you and the movers will know to handle them carefully.
Pack each electronic separately
Start by packing each electronic device in its plastic bag or original boxes. This will help keep out any debris as well as dust and moisture.
Then, wrap the device in Bubble Wrap, plastic wrap, or another type of padding. Make sure the padding covers all sides of the device, then use any packing material to make it secure.
Add silica gel to the box
Silica gel packets help absorb moisture and prevent mold and mildew. Add a few packs to the box to help protect your devices during the move.
You can find silica gel packets at most hardware stores.
Protect fan from dust
If you’re moving a computer or other device with a fan, be sure to protect the fan from dust.
Cover the fan with a piece of cheesecloth or another type of cloth. Secure the fabric with packing tape.
This will help keep the fan from getting clogged with the dust during the move.
Seal and label the boxes
Once you’ve packed all your devices, seal the boxes with packing tape and label them.
Be sure to include the following information on the label:
-Your name
-Your new address
-The words “Fragile” and “Electronics.”
This will help ensure that your devices arrive safely at your new home.
Use moving blankets
Hiring professional long distance moving companies may provide you with moving blankets and other supplies to help protect your belongings during the move.
If not, you can purchase moving blankets at most hardware stores.
For extra protection, wrap each box in a moving blanket, and secure it with packing tape. This will help prevent the boxes from getting damaged during transport.
Let Us Help You Move Fragile Items
At The Long Distance Moving Company of Sarasota Co., we know that packing up for a move can be frustrating. Still, with some planning and care, you can do it without any problems. Let us know if you need help, and we would be happy to pack and move them for you. We have the experience and training to get the job done right. Now that you know what to do, you’re ready to pack like a pro! Request a quote today!
