Tech on the Move: Safely Packing Electronics & Smart Home Devices
When you think about moving, your mind might jump to sofas, boxes of books, or kitchenware. But for many Canadians, some of the most valuable—and fragile—belongings are the electronics and smart home devices we use every day. From flat-screen TVs and laptops to Google Nest systems, gaming consoles, and smart speakers, these items aren’t just expensive; they’re often the lifeline of our homes.
The good news? With careful planning, the right materials, and a few smart strategies, you can move your tech without stress or costly damage. Let’s explore how to safely pack electronics and smart home devices so they arrive in your new home ready to plug in and power up.
Step 1: Organize and Take Inventory
Before you start unplugging cords and boxing things up, take stock of everything you’ll be moving. Walk through your home and note:
TVs, computers, and monitors
Consoles, tablets, and streaming devices
Routers, modems, and mesh Wi-Fi systems
Smart home gear (thermostats, security cameras, smart bulbs, doorbells, hubs, etc.)
Kitchen gadgets with smart features (air fryers, Instant Pots, coffee machines)
Having an inventory helps you stay organized and ensures nothing gets left behind. It also makes unpacking far less stressful—you’ll know what box each item is in and where it belongs in your new space.
Step 2: Back Up Before You Pack
Electronics hold more than just monetary value—they hold data, memories, and important work files. Before moving day:
Back up computers and tablets to the cloud or an external hard drive.
Sign out of accounts (Netflix, Google, Apple ID, etc.) on smart TVs or consoles, especially if movers will handle them.
Take photos of wiring setups behind your TV or Wi-Fi system. This makes re-installation a breeze.
Backing up ensures you don’t lose anything if a device gets damaged. Photos of wiring save you from hours of guessing which HDMI cable goes where.
Step 3: Gather Packing Materials
Proper packing supplies make all the difference. If possible, use the original boxes and inserts that your electronics came in—they’re designed for maximum protection. If you don’t have them, you’ll need:
Sturdy moving boxes in various sizes
Anti-static bubble wrap or foam sheets (regular bubble wrap can create static)
Packing paper (not newspaper, which can smudge)
Ziplock bags for cords, screws, and remotes
Labels or masking tape and a permanent marker
Investing in anti-static materials may feel like overkill, but static electricity can damage sensitive electronics like circuit boards.
Step 4: Disconnect with Care
When it comes to smart home devices, unplugging isn’t always as simple as pulling the cord.
Smart Thermostats: Shut down power to your HVAC system before removing the thermostat. Keep the wall plate or mounting hardware in a labelled bag.
Smart Bulbs: Allow bulbs to cool fully before unscrewing them. Pack them in their original boxes or wrap each one individually.
Security Cameras and Doorbells: Disconnect safely, and don’t forget mounting screws or brackets. Keep these in small bags labelled for each device.
Wi-Fi Routers and Modems: Coil cords neatly and label them so you know which belongs where.
For bigger setups like home theatres, label each cord with tape or tags. “HDMI 1—Cable Box” is far easier to decode later than a mystery black cable.
Step 5: Pack Like a Pro
TVs and Monitors
Use a TV moving box (available at most moving supply stores).
Remove stands or wall mounts, wrap them, and store them separately.
Wrap the screen in a soft cloth, then cushion with bubble wrap or foam. Always keep screens upright—never flat.
Laptops and Tablets
Power down fully and disconnect accessories.
Place the device in a padded sleeve or wrap in bubble wrap.
Carry laptops and tablets with you if possible, especially if you’re flying or moving long distance.
Consoles and Gaming Systems
Remove discs or cartridges.
Wrap the console securely and pack controllers separately.
Store games in a sturdy case or small box to avoid crushed cases.
Smart Speakers and Assistants
Wrap individually to protect delicate mesh coverings.
Box them with light padding so they don’t shift around.
Small Appliances with Smart Features
Clean and dry them first.
Remove detachable parts (trays, filters, etc.) and wrap separately.
Step 6: Handle Cables and Accessories
Cords are one of the easiest things to lose or mix up during a move. To stay organized:
Coil each cord neatly using Velcro ties or twist-ties.
Place them in a Ziplock bag labelled with the device name (“Living Room TV Cords”).
Tape the bag to the device or keep all bags in a single “Cables” box.
This method saves you from digging through a jumble of mystery wires when you’re exhausted on move-in day.
Step 7: Protect Against Weather
Moving in Canada means you can’t ignore the climate.
Winter moves: Cold temperatures can cause condensation inside electronics when brought into a warm home. To reduce risk, let items acclimate in their boxes for several hours before plugging them in.
Rain or snow: Use plastic wrap or garbage bags over boxes containing electronics to prevent water damage.
If you’re moving during a harsh season, keep electronics in your personal vehicle rather than a moving truck, where conditions may be less controlled.
Step 8: Insurance and Valuables
Check your moving company’s insurance policy. Electronics are often excluded from basic coverage or only covered at a low rate per pound. You may want to purchase extra coverage or move high-value items yourself.
If you’re transporting particularly expensive equipment—like a custom PC, sound system, or professional camera gear—it’s often safest to personally handle it.
Step 9: Unpacking and Re-Installation
Once you arrive at your new home:
Unpack electronics early so you can test them and make sure nothing was damaged.
Reconnect devices using the labelled cords and wiring photos.
Give smart home devices time to connect to your new Wi-Fi. In some cases, you may need to reset them and add them to your network again.
Extra Tips for a Smooth Tech Move
Keep essentials with you: A phone charger, laptop, router, and remote should travel in your personal bag, not the moving truck.
Label fragile clearly: Mark every box with “FRAGILE—ELECTRONICS” so movers handle them carefully.
Battery care: Remove batteries from remotes, wireless mice, or cameras to prevent leaks.
Set up Wi-Fi quickly: Having internet ready right away makes settling in—and testing devices—much smoother.
Final Thoughts
Moving your electronics and smart home devices doesn’t have to be nerve-wracking. With a bit of preparation, the right packing supplies, and some simple organizational tricks, your valuable tech will make it to your new home safe and sound.
In today’s world, our gadgets aren’t just luxuries—they’re essential for work, school, and staying connected with family and friends. By taking the time to back up, protect, and carefully transport them, you’ll be able to settle into your new place with your tech intact and ready to go.
Because let’s face it—once you’ve finished hauling boxes and building IKEA furniture, the first thing you’ll want to do is unwind with Netflix, set up your smart speaker, or hop on Wi-Fi. And thanks to a little extra care, your devices will be ready when you are.
