For many music lovers, a large collection of vinyl records is the most prized possession, so preparing to pack and store these items for moving day is no easy feat. If you want to learn how to protect your vinyl during a local or long-distance move, you’re in the right place! We’re highlighting all the important details to help you pack and store your vinyl records for moving.
Getting ready for a big move? Make it easy — hire professional movers!
How to pack vinyl records for moving
How you pack your vinyl records for a move can have a big impact on sound quality when you get set up in your new place. Here’s how to package your albums for a big move:
Use a tightly fitting moving or book box
Vinyl records are heavy, and packing them in large moving boxes can weigh down the cardboard, causing it to bow or break. The best way to package your vinyl is to choose a higher number of small, sturdy boxes. You can also find specialized record boxes or book boxes to meet your needs and keep your albums safe and secure during transport.
Seal with packing tape
No matter which moving boxes you use, be sure to secure the bottoms and sides with a durable packing tape. All those pounds add up, and may stress the structural integrity of cardboard boxes, so reinforce all seams and openings.
Pack together vertically
Here’s the golden rule of packing vinyl records for moving: Never stack albums horizontally. Laying them flat, one on top of the other, can cause them to break or warp. It’s essential to pack them vertically, like books on a shelf, to evenly distribute the weight and preserve your prized collection.
Related: How To Pack for a Move
How to store your vinyl records when moving
Knowing how to pack vs store vinyl records indefinitely are two different things. Here’s how to safeguard your albums long-term:
Always store vertically
Just as you would when packing your vinyl records for a move, you never want to stack them flat. Securing albums in an upright position will prevent damage, especially when they’ll be in storage for a while. You might use packing materials to cushion them slightly. Remember, you want them vertical and snug, but not crammed so tight that pressure points develop.
Keep in a cool, dry place
Temperature and humidity can wreck your vinyl records, causing them to warp or develop mold and mildew. Always store your albums in a climate-controlled storage unit and avoid putting them in garages, hot vehicles, and damp basements.
For the sake of organization, you might place several small boxes into larger plastic storage bins. If you choose this route, be sure to toss in a couple of packs of desiccants to minimize moisture accumulation.
Move them with care
When moving vinyl records, always carry boxes from the bottom rather than the handles or top flaps. It’s wise to clearly mark each box with “Fragile: Vinyl Records,” so your moving team knows not to stack them. This is particularly important if you’re shipping your vinyl to its final destination.
Related: Choosing the Best Temporary Storage Between Moves
Tips to protect vinyl records from damage
The next time you dig through your vinyl collection and start up your record player, you’ll probably be eager to hear your favorite tunes as the artists intended. Here are a few extra tips to protect your vinyl records during a move or in storage:
Keep the inner sleeves
Those paper inner sleeves that wrap around each vinyl record act as a buffer against dirt, dust, and static electricity, preserving their sound quality and overall value. Of course, these sleeves often go missing, especially for vintage albums that have survived multiple moves. You can buy high-quality replacements to eliminate friction and scratches.
Keep records clean
Dust, dirt, and the oils from your fingertips can all degrade your vinyl records. Regularly cleaning your albums with a carbon fiber brush, record-cleaning solution, and microfiber cloth will preserve their integrity for years of easy listening. If you’re really invested in the hobby, consider purchasing a record-cleaning machine to remove stubborn debris.
Keep out of direct sunlight
UV exposure is another enemy of vinyl records, causing fading, warping, and degradation. We know you may want to display your favorites, but protecting them from sunlight is critical to a happy, healthy album collection. It’s best to store them in a cool, dark room, but if you must display them, consider buying UV-protective covers to minimize the damage.
Related: What To Pack First When Moving
Let the pros at Red Rover make your moving day easy and hassle-free!
At Red Rover, we’re committed to helping our customers simplify the moving process and protect their valuable belongings. From professional movers to transport your vinyl to portable storage solutions for belongings that can stand up to temperature fluctuations, we do it all! Reach out today to get started!