Some of the most valuable and fragile products in any home are electronics. When relocating to Canada, it is important to pack them well in order to avoid damage. Television, computers, and gaming console devices are easy to shock, get wet, and even get cold. They are easily broken or rendered out of use unless they are properly packed. With proper materials and methods, you can ensure that your electronics remain intact at all times throughout your relocation.
Electronics are delicate and can be very costly to replace (unlike clothes or books). One fall or bump during loading can break screens, wires or circuits. Winters in Canada are even more dangerous, as low temperatures during the freezing periods can damage batteries and LCDs. Good packing is a guarantee that your equipment gets to your destination in good working condition, and it is also a way to avoid expensive post-move repairs or replacement.
Electronics should be packed in their original boxes as this is the safest method of packing. These boxes are made to fit the items, and they come with foam or cardboard inserts that cushion the items. Assuming that you haven’t thrown away the packaging of your TV, computer, or printer, use it during your move. Otherwise, you should purchase special moving boxes or durable options that would allow sufficient area to pack.
You should wrap your electronics with protective materials before putting them in boxes. Bubble wrap is preferred on screens and glass surfaces, whereas anti-static bubble wrap is preferred on circuit board items. Wraps should not be made with actual newspapers, as the ink can be left to stain surfaces. With small devices such as routers, speakers or remotes, it is recommended to store them in zip-lock bags to avoid dust and scratches.
Electronics are usually shipped with numerous wires and a few accessories that may end up mixed up. All cords can be disconnected and labelled with a tape or tag to prevent confusion in the future. Keep them in different bags or small boxes and put them in the same box as the device. By doing so, when you assemble your electronics in your new house, you are not wasting time trying to determine which cord fits where.
Moisture and freezing weather are a big concern in Canada. The electronics must always be put in plastic bags and then packed in a box to keep away condensation. Put silica gel packets in boxes to keep the atmosphere dry. In cold weather, leave electronics at ambient temperatures for a few hours before connecting them to an electrical outlet. This will avoid damage due to sudden temperature changes.
Always put a label on boxes with electronics that says FRAGILE, and always put the label this side up. Label the box with the name of the device so that movers know what is inside the box. Proper labelling will allow movers to treat the boxes with care and will allow you to find the most important devices in your new location quickly.
Electronics may be one of the hardest goods to transport, but when packed appropriately, they can be carried safely. Original boxes, bubble wrap, moisture protection and proper labelling can help minimise the risks. You will also save yourself from heartache and the avoidable expenses incurred after relocating to Canada by taking a little more time to pack. Thus it will take your equipment to your new house safely.