10 Oct
If you’re among the 43 million Americans who will pack up and move this year, consider these tips to keep your computers, printers, televisions, stereo components and other electronics in working order after the move.
Make sure to unplug all electronic appliances 24 hours in advance of a move, so that they will be at room temperature on moving day. This includes home computers, stereos, and audio/video equipment.
Whenever possible, pack electronics in their original cartons. If that’s not possible, use plenty of proper packing materials as padding. Comforters and blankets make great wraps for stereo and computer equipment, and pillows provide good cushioning. Never use packing peanuts when packing electronics because they have a tendency to carry a static electrical charge.
- Use sturdy boxes and professional packing tape (masking tape isn’t strong enough to support fully-packed cartons).
- Start by padding the bottom of your box with a generous amount of packing material or padding, then wrap electronics with paper (or blankets, sheets) and place in the carton.
- Tightly pack padding around and on top of the unit to prevent damage. Firmly seal the carton.
- Clearly mark “fragile” on the outside of cartons and mark “this side up” on the top of the carton.
- If you have concerns about reassembling any of your electronics, take pictures of the fronts and backs of your current assembly so you’ve got a visual. Then mark which cords hook to which holes before taking them apart.
Computer
Your home computer represents a big investment and is likely an important part of your daily life, so you want to pack it carefully. Make sure to back up all your computer files and your hard drive before disassembling the computer.
The central processing unit (CPU) should be handled with extreme care. This unit, which houses the motherboard and disk drive, is especially sensitive to jarring. Use the original carton if possible or another box large and sturdy enough to accommodate the CPU. Use plenty of packing materials on all sides.
For flat-screen computer monitors, follow the directions for LCD TVs below.
Don’t forget to label cords and cables before unhooking them so you know where each cord goes after the move. Also, remember that your CDs and DVDs are sensitive to heat and cold and should be moved with you rather than in a moving box.
When you arrive at your destination, allow the computer to reach room temperature before attempting to power it up.
Printer
If you’re moving a laser or ink jet printer, be sure to remove the toner and any ink cartridges and carry them with you if your move occurs during hot weather. For other types of printers, the printer head should be secured to prevent shifting. Check the owner’s manual for preparations specific to your printer model.
Large-screen television
A large-screen TV must be custom-crated prior to moving day – which can be done arranged by a professional mover or a third-party service. Be sure to have any outside antennas disconnected and taken down if they are to be included in your shipment. Most large-screen TV owner’s manuals contain a statement that some adjustment or calibration may be necessary after transport, so make sure you refer to the manual to protect your TV in the best possible way.
Plasma and LCD televisions
Flat-screen LCD and plasma televisions require careful handling. For best results, use a qualified third-party service company to properly prepare these televisions for transport. Even with the original packaging, crating for maximum protection is recommended. Remember that Plasma TVs must remain vertical – never lay them down flat! When your television arrives at its new destination, allow it to “set” for several hours at room temperature before turning it on.
Good packing is essential to a stress free move. As an authorized agent of Mayflower Moving, Herlihy Moving & Storage is here to guide you every step of the way.
Looking for professional and reliable Columbus, Ohio movers? Contact us today to experience the Herlihy Moving & Storage difference. Since 1920, we have moved thousands of Ohio families and businesses around Ohio, across the United States, and around the world. As a locally owned and operated agent of Mayflower Moving, we have the resources to move you, no matter where you need to go.
