When packing and unpacking during a move, electronic devices can be a hassle. Whether you hire professional movers or go it alone, packing electronics properly can actually be downright grueling. So, among our various other moving tips, we’ve compiled a comprehensive step-by-step guide to packing and unpacking electronics to ensure you are good to go when settling into your new home.

Step-By-Step Packing Guide For Electronics

1. Collect Packing Materials

Generally speaking, electronic equipment is fragile. So the first of our electronics packing tips is to make sure you have all you need before you start. Do an inventory of your electronic items, then stock up on the necessary packing materials accordingly — colored stickers, markers, twist ties to safeguard cables; packing paper, bubble wrap (preferably anti-static,) packing peanuts, and blankets. You will also need moving boxes and packing tape to store your items for the move. If you still have the original boxes for your equipment, you’re off to a great start.

2. Remove The Batteries

The corrosion, overheating, and leakage of batteries can be difficult to detect and, therefore, lead to bad news. So, no matter the device — be it flashlights or remote controls, stereo systems or old-school Walkman’s, cordless tools or toys of every variety — make sure the batteries are out, stored separately, and labeled.

3. Detach Accessories And Wires

The same goes for accessories, wires, and anything else that can be somewhat easily detached. Things like toner and ink cartridges, plugs, chargers, and cables tend to get tangled, caught, and/or damaged. So make sure that whatever can be separated and packed individually is.

4. Back Up Your Data

It’s also a good idea to back up any important files and data you have on an external hard drive or the cloud. A damaged computer can be replaced much more easily than your records and photos.

5. Protect The Fan From Dust

Many devices come with built-in cooling fans, which are vital to their proper functionality. Use tape, paper, towels, paper towels, bubble wrap, or whatever feels right — but make sure that dust and other particles can’t get in and that your fans stay protected.

6. Follow Product Manual

Again, if you’ve kept the original packaging from any of your devices, then you’re at an advantage. The product manual will definitely speed up the process both when disassembling and assembling your electronics, and also usually ensures that your items are fairly secure when put away. And if you tend to throw away the box after you got your gadget, then fear not — a Youtube tutorial about your device can often be the solution.

7. Pack In A Sturdy Box

Televisions, general household appliances, and stereo equipment can be awkward and heavy. And, while basic cardboard boxes might do the trick for some of your stuff, you may need a better solution for some items. Boxes, at times, have a tendency to fall, break, or simply come apart — which can be especially dangerous when it comes to valuable electronics. A sturdy box means not only peace of mind but also a lower chance of things coming undone or smashing to bits. It’s good to make sure that your electronics stay packed and secure when entering and leaving both the moving truck, storage unit, and/or old/new home, especially during a long distance move.

8. Store In Climate Controlled Environment

No matter the electronic device, extreme temperatures can cause irreparable damage. Metal, electrical wiring, microchips, and even things like CDs, DVDs, and vinyl records are all particularly susceptible to both extreme heat and cold. Climate controlled storage units are facilities designed to maintain steady humidity levels and temperatures (on average between 55 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit). So, when choosing a storage unit for your more precious electronics, it’s important to consider the environmental conditions.

9. Be Careful While Unpacking

Once your boxes and the electronics arrive to their destination, unpacking them can still be very tricky. This is where your labels and stickers — coupled with patience, diligence, and attention to detail — are key. Take your time, proceed with caution, think back, and remember to take a break when you feel the need.

10. Reinstalling Your Electronics After Move

No matter how tech-savvy you are, setting your devices back up can still sometimes feel like a never-ending nightmare. So this is where the initial steps you took when packing become crucial. Study your labels, stickers, notes, and product manuals. Carefully check for any damage. Ask a tech-savvy friend (or YouTube) for help. Set up fragile Items first, take it one step at a time, backtrack if necessary, and practice patience and common sense. If all goes well, your new home should be fully electronically functional soon enough.

11. Hire Professionals For Transit

While you know your personal electronics better than most, it’s always a good idea to take the help of professionals whenever possible. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the average American moves 11.7 times in their lifetime. By comparison, a professional moving company in a place like NYC can facilitate dozens of moves per day. In other words, enlisting the help of both packing services and moving expertise usually means you’re dealing with someone who knows how to make sure electronic devices of every variety travel safely. A transit protection coverage plan can provide an additional layer of security.