How to Pack Vinyl Records for Moving

Here at NL Wilson, we understand the importance of packing your most prized possessions in a way that properly protects their state. This could be glassware, collectibles, memories, and for music heads out there—your vinyl records.

Whether you’re a serious collector or just starting out your collection, it’s very important to learn how to properly pack your records incase of a move. You don’t want to arrive at your new home and realize your favorite record is broken when all you wanted was some good unpacking music

Why is Properly Packing Vinyl Records Important?

Being able to properly pack vinyl records is extremely important to avoid any damages. As record collectors know, vinyl records are very delicate and can easily become warped, scratched, or completely broken if they aren’t handled or packed with care.

Packing your vinyl records properly will leave you happy and your records sounding as good as they had before your move.

The Risks Vinyl Records Face During a Move

There are many variables that your vinyl records face when put through a moving process. Fluctuations in temperature may cause warping or deterioration on the sleeves. If your vinyl records become exposed to moisture it can lead to mold growth or other damage.

Then, you can’t forget the physical motions you’ll be putting them through. From transportation in the car and then carrying them into your new residence, any physical impacts from improper handling may leave cracks, scratches or could possibly shatter records entirely.

Proper Packing Benefits You In The Long Run

By following some of our recommendations, you can keep the value and condition of your records in great shape. It also saves you money from having to replace or repair any damages. 

Gather the Necessary Supplies

Using the right packing materials is the first step to ensuring a smoother move of your records. Cardboard boxes or sturdy record mailers supply support and protect from external pressure. Bubble wrap offers extra cushioning from pressure. We always recommend using packing tape no matter what you’re moving.

Acid-free record sleeves can also help prevent damage caused by other chemicals or acids that might come from other materials you’re moving.

Why is it important to use Acid-Free Materials for packing Vinyl Records?

Normal paper or cardboard sleeves may contain acids that will have a negative interaction with the vinyl, which will lead to damage over time. Acid-free sleeves prevent these negative chemical interactions.

Where can I find the Necessary Packing Supplies for Vinyl Records?

You can find most of these packing materials around town at local moving supply stores or mailers. There is also the option to order online if you don’t have time to travel to gather up these supplies.

Preparing Vinyl Records for Packing

Some people have a particular way they like their records to be organized on the shelf. Whether it’s by sleeve color, genre, artist, or album name. If you like to have your records sorted in a specific way, make sure to pack them accordingly. This way it will be easier to unpack and get them back on the shelf in the way you like.

Don’t forget to label each box with what category or section of your record collection is inside. Playing the guessing game is never fun when you have a million boxes around your house.

This time is also a good opportunity to create a catalog or to take inventory of your collection. This is simply for convenience if you ever decide to sell or trade records, or maybe it’s easier to find what you want to listen to this way. You can do this either digitally or in your own notebook.

How should I Clean Vinyl Records before Packing them?

Cleaning your records is an important step to take before packing them up for a move. Doing so will help remove any dust, fingerprints or other debris that could cause damage during a move.

We suggest using a carbon fiber brush or a soft microfiber cloth that is made for vinyl records. Clean them by wiping or gently brushing them in a circular motion that follows the grooves.

Before you pack them after cleaning, make sure that your records are completely dry. If any moisture was trapped between the sleeve and record previously, it can be an easy way for mold or mildew to grow. 

If you choose to use a cleaning solution that is specifically designed for vinyl records, make sure you apply the solutions correctly and follow instructions carefully. A dry cleaning method is always preferred. 

Can I Stack Vinyl Records while Packing them?

To help prevent damage or warping, NL Wilson suggests to stack vinyl records vertically when packing them for a move. If you stack them horizontally, you’re at risk of putting pressure on the sleeves and causing your records to warp.

How many Records should I pack in each Mailer or Box?

Make sure not to go overboard when packing records together in a mailer or a box. Typically, keeping a maximum number of around 15-20 records per maqiler or box is best. But, this can change depending on the size and weight of the records you’re moving, or how strong of a box or mailer you have. The goal is to find the balance to make sure your records are properly protected and that there is enough space in the box.

Call NL Wilson To Hear From Moving Experts

 By following some of these techniques and making sure you are prepared with the correct packing materials, your vinyl record collection should be safe and sound during your move. Always handle your records with care and be aware of your surroundings when moving.

If you prefer someone else to move your records for you, contact NL Wilson! Our team of professional movers is well experienced and our company has been around since 1965.