Tech Blog

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Let’s face facts – your next move is inevitable. When it comes to packing up your home entertainment system, there’s only one thing that’s certain: never, under any circumstances, should you skip any steps. The technology you use contains extremely sensitive components – which require your attention and care, or they may not survive the move. Below, you’ll find a series of tips to assist you with this delicate and demanding process.

Remember, it’s best to avoid extreme temperatures when moving hi-tech equipment.  If it’s a hot summer day, move your equipment in the evening once things have cooled off. If it’s the middle of winter, warm the vehicle up before loading your boxes aboard. If possible, it's always best to transport components in their original packaging. Most importantly, never forget that your electronics are valuable items. When you label your boxes, use code words so thieves won’t be alerted of their contents.

Wires and Remotes

Pack these items separately, in their own dedicated box. Remove all detachable wires, grab a labeler, and make sure you mark every cord with the name of its related device – this will save you a ton of time and energy once you begin unpacking. It's also a good idea to take the batteries out of your remote controls. By removing these “loose” elements, you’ll prevent any unforeseen disasters while your goods are in transit.

Digital Media Players

If you’re about to pack a digital media player which reads CDs, DVDs, or Blu-rays – consider replacing the transport screws... the same ones you originally took out when you first unboxed the device. Usually located on the bottom of the component, these are fairly easy to reinsert and tighten. This will secure your laser in place, and protect it from being jarred or jolted during your move.  

Record enthusiasts should probably tighten the screws on the top of their turntable, to protect its platter from damage. Carefully secure your player’s arm, using a piece of tape if necessary.

Speakers

Good speakers are usually quite heavy – making it absolutely essential to tape and protect all the device’s corners... otherwise they could incur damage, causing aesthetic blights and affecting the acoustic properties of the speaker itself. Remember to remove your speakers grills and pack them separately – or they might become disconnected during your move, and potentially puncture something in the process.

Wrap the entire speaker in heavy blankets – or, even better, purchase rigid foam insulation boards to shield the unit from any outside damage. If you’re packing your speakers in a truck, consider placing them face first against the compartment’s walls – to protect them from furniture which may shift around.

Televisions

After disconnecting your device’s cables, secure the attached power cord with twist ties or a Velcro strip.  Next, wrap the TV screen in a protective layer of thin foam – this will help protect it from unsightly scratches and marks. Make sure to place your television in an upright position, then secure all corners with solid pieces of Styrofoam – at least 3 to 4 inches thick. Next, place a blanket or foam pad at the bottom of the box you’ll be using, before placing the TV inside. Seal the box using liberal amounts of packing tape. Clearly label the box as fragile, and indicate which side is up.