It’s easy to underestimate just how many electronics your business has until it’s time to move. From servers to PBX systems, there’s a full spectrum of electronics an office may need to move, and the more specialized the electronics are, the more expensive they typically are.
It can be really stressful if you’re tasked with moving these items, because they are valuable and if they’re damaged and require a repair, or worse yet, need to be replaced. Below are some tips to help protect your company’s electronics.
Back Up Your Data
Even more valuable than the physical electronics themselves is the data the electronics hold. You can always replace an electronic, but if you lose the data on it, that’s not something you cannot easily re-create. That’s why completing an entire backup of all your data is the most important step you can take when moving electronics.
Hiring professionals to move your electronics provides an added layer of precaution, but even if you go this route, there’s always some risk involved when moving electronics. This is why we recommend completing an entire off-site backup before moving day. You can backup the data on a cloud server, where you’ll always be able to access the data.
Complete the backup before moving day, and test the information to make sure all items have been properly backed up and are accessible. Once confirmed, you can move your electronics without worrying about losing the information they store.
Communicate with Your Moving Company
You’ll want to make sure to provide Ed’s Moving & Storage (or whichever moving company you hire) with an inventory list that includes all electronic items that need to be moved. Electronic devices require extra attention beyond what other items require, because most electronics use magnetic media. There’s a chance that magnetized items can cause damage, and because of this, need to be handled with extra care.
Include All Cords and Label Them
The last thing you want to do when you get to your destination is spend hours trying to figure out which cords belong to which electronic items. Although it will take some extra time before moving day, it’s important to make sure to label all of your cords and keep them connected to their corresponding electronic items. If you take the time to do this before you move, it will make the move and unpacking much more enjoyable.
Another thing that can be helpful is to take pictures of all the cords with their applicable electronic items, so in the event items get separated, you can rely on your photos to sort out the mess.
Use Climate-Controlled Storage Units
Electronic items can be negatively impacted by extreme fluctuating temperatures. If your devices have screens, they are susceptible to both heat and cold. Products without screens can be negatively impacted by heat as well. To ensure your electronics stay safe during the move, store them in a climate-controlled storage unit.
Purchase Additional Insurance for Expensive Items
If you’re moving expensive items, one thing you can do for extra protection is to insure each item individually. Another option is to insure the value of the information and business as a whole.
You can often purchase insurance through your moving company. Depending on what type of insurance your business has, you might be able to purchase additional coverage through your existing provider. Take the time before moving day to explore your options and find out what will provide the best protection for you.
Pack Devices Properly
Aside from getting all your user manuals together, remove all batteries from remotes and electronics to reduce the risk of leaking and overheating. We also recommend ejecting DVDs, CDs, and Blu-rays and charging any rechargeable batteries for extra measure.
Take Out Toner and Printer Cartridges
Regardless of how well-built your printer is, it is one of the more fragile items, and if not handled properly, it can be damaged. Aside from having the right moving box, remove and eject any toner or printer cartridges and keep them wrapped in a resealable bag to avoid leaks.
Protect the Devices with Proper Packing
Your user manual might have some tips on what the manufacturer recommends for packing, but the best way we found is to make sure there's plenty of cushion on the top and bottom of the box. Use bubble wrap or towels and if it has a screen protect it with an additional layer and cover with cardboard. Never use newspapers and try to place the items back in the original packaging to reduce the risk.
Keep Your Electronics Safer with Ed’s Moving & Storage
Are you feeling more confident about moving your electronics? If you take the time to communicate with your moving company and accurately prepare for your move, the process will be as efficient and stress-free as possible.
If you want assistance, Ed’s Moving & Storage is here to help! Not only can we help you move your electronics, we also offer assistance for military moves, intrastate moves, and full packing services. Call us today at (253) 581-2446, or send a message online, we can’t wait to connect with you and get your move booked today!