Of all the things that could get damaged when moving, electronics are high on the list and certainly can cause you the most inconvenience, especially if you rely on your laptop, for example, to work from home. And the kids will be none too impressed if their gaming console is damaged during your home move!

Knowing how to protect and how to pack electronics during your home move whether across town or out of state, is a useful home moving skill to have.

So in this post, we will offer you sound advice on how to pack electronics when moving home.

13 Easy Steps for Packing Electronics for Moving

Whether it's a local move or a long-distance relocation, this step-by-step guide will make your electronics packing seamlessly organized.

#1. Back Up All Your Electronic Files

Make a copy of any files that you cannot run the risk of losing. Use memory sticks, external data storage, email, or internet-based secure data storage facilities to keep all your precious files safe. Back them up to two different locations to be sure that they are safe.

#2. Label All the Cables and Corresponding Connections

Color coding the cables and the terminals they connect into with small colored stickers will ensure that you know exactly what goes where. An additional label detailing which device the cables belong to is also advisable. So, you should end up with a colored label at each end of the cable, color-coded with the connectors, and a label stating which device the cable belongs to.

#3. Check the Manufacturer's Manual for Packing Tips

Before you even think about packing that fancy electronic device, take a peek at the manufacturer’s guide. These manuals often contain valuable tips on how to properly pack and store your electronics. Following the instructions can help ensure your devices make it to your new home in one piece.

#4. Unplug Electronics 24 Hours in Advance

To prevent any internal damage, be sure to unplug your electronics at least 24 hours before packing them. This allows your devices to cool down and reduces the risk of static electricity, which can damage sensitive equipment. Taking this small precaution can save you a major headache later.

#5. Remove Batteries Etc.

Remove ink cartridges and any batteries from printers, disconnect cables, and bag each component together. After labeling all your cables, disconnect, wrap, and then secure them with elastic bands or food bag ties to prevent those inevitable tangles.

Bag the cables all together so that you know exactly where everything is, but pack them with their respective device so that they do not get mixed up. They can then be safely packed into the moving boxes. Ensure that when in the box they cannot move around and damage the device they are packed with.

#6. Pack Devices into Manufacturers’ Original Boxes If Available

This is the safest way to transport your precious electronics, especially if you have retained the foam protectors that your items were encased in when new.

#7. Assemble Packing Materials If You Do Not Have the Original Packing

You will need moving supplies such as three-ply cardboard boxes as they are the sturdiest, anti-static bubble wrap (if you bubble wrap electronics while moving, that really lowers the risk of damage), wrapping papers, sealing tape, and marker pens. Have plenty of blankets or paper that you can use to fill any spaces in the packing boxes to stop any movement of the contents whilst they are being moved.

#8. Snap Some Pics Before Disassembling

Before you start taking apart your electronics, grab your phone and snap a few photos of how everything is set up. Trust us — when it’s time to reassemble your tech in your new space, those photos will save you hours of frustration. Keep the pictures with the devices they belong to, and you’ll have a hassle-free setup in your new home or office.

#9. Tame the Cable Chaos

There’s nothing worse than unpacking a tangled mess of cables. Avoid the headache by bundling up cords with twist ties or rubber bands, and pack them alongside the corresponding device. This way, when you’re ready to set things up again, everything’s organized and easy to find. You’ll be up and running in no time!

#10. Label Boxes Like a Pro

Don’t underestimate the power of a well-labeled box! Clearly mark what’s inside each box and note which room the electronics belong in. If you’ve got multiple devices of the same type, this simple step will save you from sorting through a pile of identical boxes later. For long-term storage, consider taping a photo of the contents on the outside of each box to make unpacking even easier.

#11. Pack Electronics Securely

When placing electronics in boxes, make sure to fill any gaps with packing materials like bubble wrap, paper, or packing peanuts. This prevents your gadgets from bouncing around during transport, reducing the chance of damage. Secure packing means peace of mind when it’s time to unpack.

#12. Wrap Up Your Devices for Extra Protection

Dust and debris can easily sneak into your electronics during a move, so take a moment to wrap each device in plastic to keep them clean. For larger items like TVs or monitors, use thick blankets or protective covers to prevent dents and scratches. Keeping everything wrapped up tight will ensure your electronics arrive safely.

#13. Choose a Climate-Controlled Environment for Storage

Impact of Temperature on Electronics

For long-distance moves or long-term storage, make sure to pick a climate-controlled space! Extreme temperatures or high humidity can wreak havoc on your devices. A stable environment ensures your electronics stay in perfect working condition, whether you’re moving them across the country or keeping them in storage for the long term.

Home Moving Packing Tips for Electronics

The best way to pack electronics for moving is to hire the services of a professional packing and removal company as they will have the skills and correct packaging materials to ensure that your electronics remain safe, but should you decide to pack your precious electronics yourself here are our top packing tips.

  • Prior to packing electronics for travel, photograph their condition, make a note of the manufacturer, model number, and any serial numbers. Then produce an electronics packing list so that in the event that you need to make an insurance claim at a later date you will be able to provide all the information the insurance company may require.
  • Having labeled and disconnected all the cables, wind the cables so that they do not become a tangled mess and secure in place with a tie such as an elastic band, zip tie or food bag ties.
  • Do not place bubble wrap or newspaper directly onto the screens of your electronics as this can damage the screen. Instead cut a piece of card the same size as the screen.
  • Wrap the device in soft paper or a blanket. Securely tape so that the protection cannot move whilst being handled.
  • Place the cardboard protector that you earlier cut out, over the screen and secure in place with tape.
  • Cover the entire thing in bubble wrap or thick blankets and secure again with tape.
  • Use 3 ply cardboard boxes to transport your delicate electronics and these offer the best protection for transit and stacking.
  • Pad the bottom of the box with a blanket, clothing or bubble wrap which will absorb any impacts when the item is placed on the floor.
  • Place the item in the box. Do not stack multiple items on top of each other without an additional layer of protection such as more padding, always ensuring that heavier items are packed in the box first. It is highly recommended though that you pack only one electronic item per box.
  • Ensure that the contents of the box cannot move about in transit by filling any gaps with bubble wrap, linens, or newspaper.
  • Another layer of padding should be placed on top of the items before securely sealing the box. Seal the box lengthways and from side to side for additional safety.
  • Finally clearly label the box as "Fragile – Handle with Care – This Way Up." Ensure you label which room the box is to go into to make it easier for the movers.
  • Clearly identify which side of the box the screen is so the movers can take extra care to prevent damage to the screen.
  • It is not advisable, for security reasons, to mark on the box that it contains valuable electronic equipment.
  • If you are expecting rain on moving day, securely wrap the box in plastic such as bin liners, to keep the box and contents dry. Remember to attach the box labels on the outside of the plastic wrapper as well as on the boxes themselves, so that in the unlikely event that the plastic gets torn off your boxes, they are still well labeled.

Leave the Tech Stress to Us: Chicago’s Trusted Movers

You’ve got the tips, tricks, and know-how to keep your electronics safe during the move. From backing up your files (because, let’s be honest, we’ve all had that moment of panic thinking we lost everything) to stacking those boxes like a pro, you’re well on your way to mastering the art of moving your gadgets.

But let’s be real — life gets busy, and what starts as a perfectly planned DIY project can quickly turn into a last-minute scramble. That’s where Alliance Moving & Storage comes in! If you’re in Chicago and feeling overwhelmed, why not let the professionals take the load off? We’re here to make sure your electronics get from point A to point B without any stress or worry. Contact us today, and let’s make your move easy!