Protecting Fragile Electronics During A Move

8 October 2017
 Categories: , Blog


Packing fragile objects for shipping or moving is hardly new, but many electronics pose unique challenges. Even if you pad the outside, the internal components could still be moving around and may break depending on the stability of the roads. In some cases, even nudging a computer too much with your foot can knock something loose, so securing for shipment is a must. Here are a few fragile electronics concerns, along with ways to protect your investment.

Fragility Inside The Case

When dealing with computers, video game consoles, speakers, and entertainment systems, denting the case or the buttons is not the biggest problem. Many devices have components that are locked into play with only a plastic locking mechanism and a screw or bolt.

Especially with computers, some of these components are hand-tightened or installed loosely enough that the average person can change out the parts without needing a power tool spinning in reverse. Because of this, there's a risk that the devices may shake apart during transit.

If you own a computer, a computer technician can either tighten the components or place the components into anti-static bags. If you would like to do this yourself, be sure to get an anti-static wrist strap before touching anything inside the device. Static electricity may as well be lightning, as any unplanned electrical charge outside of the computer circuitry can burn the contact area.

Shock Absorption At Multiple Levels

Reducing the amount of impact or shock that your belongings deal with begins at the vehicle level. The moving vehicle needs to have a decent set of shocks, which is a business fleet responsibility. You can confirm this when the truck or van arrives for moving your belongings.

There are a few additional shock protection options, such as insulated packaging and padded truck beds. The floor or bed of a moving truck should be padded to add an extra layer of shock absorption inside the vehicle, and even the boxes can come with shock protection.

Bubble wrap and blankets alone won't cut it, but they can help. Just be sure that any blanket-type padding isn't allowing your objects to slide around the truck. Bubble wrap is sometimes incorrectly used to insulate the inside of computers, which is a static risk. Avoid internal padding and use the previously mentioned removal and anti-static bag storage.

Moving companies can help you plan the logistics of electronics shipping, so contact a moving professional to discuss your concerns. Click to find out more.


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