When moving or shipping electronics, the very last thing you want — or need — is a broken computer, tablet, or flat screen. Imagine opening the moving box that contains your precious gadgets only to discover that they’ve been cracked, dented, or cleaved from their power sources? No bueno.
So to help you avoid a catastrophe, today we’re talking best practices and breaking down how to ship electronics, from packaging to positioning!
How to Ship Electronics: Batteries and Static Electricity
Batteries and static electricity are major considerations when shipping electronics.
The batteries used in most tech devices — like tablets and laptops — are called Lithium-ion batteries, and they’re more powerful than normal dry cells. As a result, you must be extra careful when shipping electronics that use them — especially if your freight is being transported by air.
Why? It all comes down to air-pressure.
You see, static electricity can build-up in cargo holds, which can lead to short-circuiting, smoldering, and even full-blown fires — especially if it’s accidentally powered on. So what’s the solution?
- If possible, re-pack your electronics in their original boxes. Retailers are bound to stringent packing guidelines, so if you save the boxes and protective paraphernalia, you’ll be good to go. If you don’t have the original packaging, don’t worry. Simply make sure the battery terminals aren’t exposed and cover the device with a plastic bag.
- Make sure your electronics are powered off before packing them. Not airport or sleep mode, but completely off.
- Cover power buttons with cardboard and electrical tape to ensure they don’t get knocked on during the shipping process.
How to Ship Electronics: Material Considerations
The key to successfully shipping electronics is proper packing materials. What’s the best? Well, it depends on what you’re packing and its size.
Large TVs and Screens: The double boxing — sometimes called over boxing — is the safest packing method for large televisions and flat screen monitors. It’s just as it sounds: using a box inside a box. The added protection goes a long way in making sure things don’t crack or chip. And don’t forget the styrofoam.
Laptops and Tablets: If you don’t have the original packaging for a laptop, wrap it in a plastic bag to insulate it from static electricity. When it comes to shipping computers and tablets, you also need to worry about batteries.
How to Ship Electronics: Labeling and Positioning Are Key
Electronics are fragile, so boxing placement is essential. Labeling is also vital.
For example, all screens should be transported in the upright position, as if hanging on a wall. This prevents damaging vibrations and decreases the possibility of cracks. To prevent movers and delivery people from holding it upside down or stowing it flat, label the box clearly with directional arrows.
Or…Let Shipping Experts Handle It for a Very Reasonable Rate
We hope you found our short guide on shipping electronics helpful. If you have questions or just want someone to handle it for you, get in touch with Stasher’s shipping team. We handle the “shipping stress” so you can deal with the rest of your move!
Get in touch today. We’ll chat about your situation and lay out several options.
