Packing a Printer or Scanner for Moving: An Easy Aussie Guide
Moving house involves packing countless items, but some are more awkward than others. Your home office printer or scanner is a prime example. It’s bulky, has delicate moving parts, and worst of all, holds the potential for a catastrophic ink or toner leak all over your belongings.
But don’t stress! With a few simple steps, you can pack your printer or scanner like a pro, ensuring it arrives at your new home clean, safe, and ready to print. If you’d prefer expert help, professional removalists can handle fragile electronics with care, saving you time and reducing the risk of damage. This guide will walk you through the entire process, covering everything from ink cartridges to finding the right box.
First, Gather Your Packing Gear
Preparation is key to a successful pack. Before you touch the printer, get your supplies in order.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- The Original Box (The Holy Grail): If you kept the original packaging with its custom-fit styrofoam, you’re in luck. This is by far the safest option.
- A Sturdy Cardboard Box: If the original box is long gone, find a strong box that’s slightly larger than your printer, leaving a few centimetres of space on all sides for padding.
- Bubble Wrap: Essential for cushioning the device.
- Packing Tape: A strong roll to secure everything.
- Resealable Plastic Bags: To store cables and, most importantly, ink cartridges.
- Packing Paper or Old Towels: For extra padding.
- Permanent Marker: For clear labelling.
Step-by-Step: How to Pack Your Printer Safely
Follow these steps precisely to avoid damage and messy leaks.
Step 1: Prep the Printer
Before you unplug anything, get the device ready.
- Consult Your Manual: If you can find it online, your printer’s manual may have a specific “moving mode” or instructions for transport. It’s worth a quick Google search.
- Remove All Paper: Take out all the paper from the loading trays. Pack it separately or use it as padding for other boxes.
Step 2: The Big Question: Remove the Ink or Toner?
This is the most critical step and depends on what type of printer you have.
For Inkjet Printers: YES, Remove the Cartridges
Inkjet cartridges are filled with liquid ink and are the number one cause of moving-day disasters.
- Turn the printer on and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to access and remove the ink cartridges.
- Place the cartridges in a small, sealed plastic bag. Try to keep them upright.
- Some experts recommend placing a small piece of tape over the ink port to prevent leaks, but a sealed bag is most important.
- If possible, secure the print head carriage in its “locked” position (usually on the far right). You may need to use a small piece of tape if it moves freely after the power is off.
For Laser Printers: NO, Leave the Toner Cartridge In
Laser toner is a fine powder, not a liquid. It is far less likely to leak. In fact, removing the toner cartridge can expose it to light and damage it, and the loose powder can be incredibly messy. Simply leave the toner cartridge securely inside the machine.
Step 3: Disconnect and Secure Everything
- Unplug and Bag Cables: Disconnect the power cord and USB cable from the printer and the wall. Coil them neatly and place them in a labelled resealable bag.
- Tape Down Moving Parts: Use small pieces of packing tape to secure the scanner lid, paper trays, and any other flaps or doors. This stops them from flying open and breaking during the move.
Step 4: The Packing Process
Now it’s time to box it up.
Using the Original Box:
This is the easy part. Place the printer into its custom styrofoam inserts, add the bag of cables, and slide it into the box. Seal it securely. Done!
Without the Original Box:
- Create a Base: Put a thick layer of crumpled packing paper or a folded towel at the bottom of your chosen box to act as a shock absorber.
- Wrap the Printer: Generously wrap the entire printer in two or three layers of bubble wrap and secure it with tape.
- Place and Pad: Place the wrapped printer into the centre of the box. Firmly stuff the empty space on all sides with more packing paper, towels, or blankets. The goal is to make sure the printer is snug and cannot shift or wobble at all.
- Add Cables: Place the bag of cables on top before sealing.
Step 5: Label and Transport Correctly
- Label Clearly: Seal the box securely with packing tape. On at least two sides, write “FRAGILE – PRINTER” and draw arrows indicating “THIS WAY UP.”
- Transport Upright: This is vital. Always keep the printer box upright during the move. Laying it on its side or upside down can cause the remaining ink or toner to shift and settle in the wrong places, potentially damaging the internal mechanics. The safest place is on the floor of your car, wedged so it cannot tip over.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I have an All-In-One printer and scanner?
The process is exactly the same. The most important additional step for an All-In-One is to make sure the scanner lid is securely taped down so the glass is protected and the lid doesn’t flap around.
Can I lay a printer on its side to fit it in the car?
It’s a big no. You should always keep a printer upright during transport. Lying it on its side risks causing internal damage, especially to an inkjet printer, where the last drops of ink can run into the electronics.
Is it safe for removalists to move my printer?
You can, but it’s always riskier than moving it yourself. A moving truck is a bumpy environment. If you must have removalists move it, make sure it is exceptionally well-packed and very clearly labelled. Your car is always the safest option for delicate electronics.
I lost the ink cartridges. Can I still move the printer?
If you have an inkjet printer and can’t find the cartridges, you can’t remove them. In this case, your best bet is to pack it as securely as possible, keep it upright at all costs, and hope for the best. There is a higher risk of a small ink leak inside the machine.
