Pack electronics by photographing the cable layout, powering everything down, wrapping each item in soft padding and labelling every cord. Use the original boxes if you still have them. The few minutes spent labelling will save a long evening of guessing at the new place.
Before You Unplug Anything
- Take a clear photo of the back of each device with the cables in place.
- Back up important files to a separate drive or online storage.
- Turn each device off properly and let it cool down.
- Unplug the power first, then the other cables.
- Remove discs, memory cards and loose accessories.
Cables and Small Parts
Coil each cable loosely, without tight bends, and fasten it with a tie. Add a small piece of tape with a label such as “TV power” or “router to modem”. Place the cables for one device in a single bag, then tape the bag to the device or put it in the same box. Keep remote controls and stands with their device too.
Padding and Boxes
- Use the original box and foam where possible.
- Otherwise wrap the item in soft cloth or bubble wrap, then place it in a sturdy box with extra padding on all sides.
- Stand screens upright and never stack heavy items on top of them.
- Mark boxes “fragile” and show which side faces up.
- Keep the boxes out of very hot or very cold vehicles for long periods, as the maker’s guide may advise.
Quick Packing Reference
| Item | Key tip |
|---|---|
| Computer | Pack the screen and tower separately |
| TV or monitor | Protect the screen face with a rigid sheet |
| Router | Keep with its power adapter, labelled |
| Game console | Remove discs, pack cables in a bag |
Setting Up Again
At the new place, unpack electronics after the heavy furniture is in position. Let items that were in a cold vehicle come to room temperature before powering them on, as the maker’s guide may advise. Use your photos to reconnect cables, plug into a surge protector if you have one, and test one device at a time.
Check that the wireless router is placed in an open, central spot. Update passwords if you gave any out for the move. Keep the original boxes for a few weeks in case anything needs to be returned or moved again.
Take extra care with anything that holds personal files, and carry laptops and phones yourself rather than placing them in the moving vehicle.
FAQ
Can I pack electronics in plastic bags?
Bags are fine for small parts, but wrap the devices in cloth. Plastic alone adds little protection.
What about batteries?
Check each device’s manual for how to transport them, and remove loose batteries from items when you can.
The Short Version
Photograph, back up, label and pad everything. Keep cords with their devices and handle screens with extra care.