How to pack tools and machines for transport

So, you’ve decided to move to a new house, and you still wondering how to start packing. It’s a daunting task, and just the thought of sorting all your stuff scares you. Looking at piles of empty boxes which are ready to be filled to the brim gives you nightmares. Packing your clothes and your books seems pretty straightforward, but think about how you’ll pack your tools and machines for transport. Storage areas, such as your garage, don’t come to mind first when you think about packing. In reality, these areas pose a true packing challenge during the moving process. Don’t worry – we’ve got some helpful tips to help you stay organized and stress-free.

Sort your items before you pack them

If packing your clothes seemed to go on forever, just wait until you get to your shed or garage. These spaces are more often than not packed with sharp, heavy and odd-shaped items.  The very first step you should take before you pack your tools and machines for transport is to sort them out. This process will be about deciding which tools and machines you want to bring with you and which you don’t. For example, if you’re moving from a house to an apartment, you probably won’t need a lawnmower or a garden hose. While sorting, it is useful to divide your workshop or garage into zones – separate your hand tools from your bulky items. It will ensure you get the job done much faster. Also, when you decide which tools and machines you want to get rid of, think about donating or selling them!

Pack your tools and machines in a practical way

Of course, you’re not the first (or the last!) person having to deal with packing a workshop for the move. And just like when disassembling furniture for moving, you should be smart and find out how the others dealt with this task. To save your time, we’ve come up with a few ideas for the following:

Dealing with hand tools when moving

Sorting out and packing your hand tools should be the second step you take. After all, doesn’t it look much cleaner after all these little items are put away? Think about where these are:

• Wrenches
• Hammers
• Files
• Pliers
• Chisels
• Hand saws, etc.

The best way to store these items for the move is in a toolbox. A proper toolbox would provide the best protection for your tools. However, make sure you still wrap each tool in packing paper before you put them in the toolbox – it will save them from possible scratches during the haul. If you don’t have a toolbox, choose an appropriate cardboard moving box. Make sure you don’t overfill it – it can be too heavy to lift and may fall apart due to its weight. Wrap them individually in bubble wrap or even old socks.

Moving lawnmowers and gas-powered tools

If you’ve decided to keep your lawnmower because you will still use it after the move, consider a few things. First of all, it is crucial that you empty them and that there is no fuel left inside. No mover will want to risk transporting motorized tools which could possibly start a fire.

Be eco-conscious and dispose of your excess fuel in a local automotive shop or a recycling center. Talk to your movers beforehand and discuss possible ways to secure and pack tools and machines for the haul. If you still haven’t chosen your moving company, check out Dorothy & Martha Moving NYC to see if it suits your needs! Not all movers would want to deal with moving potentially explosive materials and/or gasoline. Also, to ensure better protection for the movers (and other items in the truck!) you should wrap the lawnmower blades, or take them off.

Think about how you’ll pack your power tools

You’re in luck – power tools are much easier to pack than hand tools. You have fewer items and won’t get overwhelmed with the amount that you need to pack. Try to look for the original packaging of the tool. These boxes are designed to provide the ultimate protection for the tool and would be the best choice. If you have thrown them away, or can’t seem to find them, don’t worry. A stronger cardboard moving box of the right size could work just as well, with a little bit of adaptation. Next, you should also consider detaching any parts and removing batteries. Just make sure you put them in the same box as the tool, to avoid losing it in the moving process! 

Your garage might also contain other machines

Now, this won’t apply to everyone, of course. However, it is highly common that people have their freezer or a washer and dryer in the garage due to the lack of space.

When transporting large appliances and machines, you have to be aware that your moving costs will reflect that. Different moving companies and your moving situation will also define the total cost of relocation. If you’re moving from Brooklyn (or NYC in general), there are free Brooklyn moving quotes to help you get the idea of what you’ll have to pay in the end. In order not to add to the moving stress caused by money, make a checklist of what needs to be done:

1. Clean, defrost and dry refrigerators and freezers.
2. Drain all the water from the washing machine.
3. Tape all cords to the machines.
4. Secure the washer and dryer doors to prevent them from opening during the haul.
5. Wrap them in moving blankets and secure them properly in the moving truck.

Now you’re ready to pack your tools and machines!

You have now seen which things to keep in mind when packing items from your garage or shed. While it may seem difficult, try to do it at the beginning. It takes a lot of time, so start early and ask for help. You could also use the empty space to store your moving tools and boxes. It is also easier for your movers to enter your house through the empty garage and not block the front door!