Disconnecting and packing electronics can be a mess if you don’t have a plan. All those cords, cables, wires, small components and fragile devices can break if not secured throughout the move. It can also be difficult to match them up correctly when you move into the new place if you’re not organized while packing. Here are some tips about how to best disconnect and pack your electronics before the move:

Disconnecting

• Snap photos or sketch little diagrams demonstrating the intricate connections of your TV, cable box, computer, gaming system, stereo and other devices.
• Make sure there’s someone helping you when you move your TV away from the wall.
• Back up all computers or any important files that you want to protect just in case the hard drives were to be damaged during the move.
• Remove all CDs or DVDs from devices.
• Place labels on remotes and other controllers to easily decipher what they’re used for.
• Dust, vacuum and wipe down your devices, including receivers and speakers.
• Take out ink cartridges and batteries, especially if they’re going to be stored in a hot environment, and put them in a separate plastic bag.

Packing

The best way to move all your electronic equipment is to use the original boxes if you still have them. If not, many moving companies sell packaging that is similar. You can also buy bubble wrap or a thick foam roll to protect screens, monitors, speakers, printers and other delicate electronics. After measuring the screens, you should cut a piece that is large enough to cover the whole screen and overlap in the back so it can be secured with tape.

Since foam peanuts seem to stick to electronic devices, make sure you buy materials that are antistatic. Crumbled newspaper, soft blankets and pillows can all be placed in the empty spaces of the boxes to provide cushioning. Make a point to fill the bottom and top of the box with these materials so nothing moves around when it’s closed.

Have your movers in Lehigh County, PA store the speakers in an upright position in the truck to prevent internal damages. Be careful about placing stereo speakers in the boxes, as well, to make sure knobs and inputs don’t break. You should never put more than one heavy piece of electronic equipment in a single box, or else they might bang against each other and get damaged. Pack all remotes, power cords and cables with the devices they belong to. You can use clear tape to keep components contained. Finally, label the boxes on the outside and give instructions on how to carry them to your residential or commercial movers in Monroe County, PA.