I’ve moved my record collection six times in the last decade, and let me tell you – it’s nerve-wracking every single time. Records aren’t just stuff; they’re memories and investments that can crack, warp, or scratch if packed poorly. Looking for the best moving services for your vinyl? You’ll need movers who won’t treat your precious albums like they’re packing cereal boxes.
Choosing the Right Packing Materials
Regular moving boxes suck for records – they’re too weak and often collapse under the weight. My friend Jake tried to save money using liquor store boxes and ended up with warped Beatles albums (still haunts him). Get proper record shipping boxes from your local record store or U-Haul.
They’re stiffer and sized right. Grab bubble wrap too, not newspaper – newsprint can transfer onto your album covers. For my rare original pressing of “Kind of Blue,” I actually use a plastic sleeve inside a cardboard sleeve inside a box with corner protectors. Overkill? Maybe, but it’s still mint.
Organizing Your Vinyl Collection
Before you pack a single record, take a picture of your current setup. Trust me, you’ll forget how you had everything arranged. I group mine by genre first, then alphabetical. Write down where your valuable stuff is – my copy of The Clash’s first album is worth about $90, so I keep track of exactly which box it’s in.
This isn’t just being anal – it matters if something goes missing or you need to file an insurance claim. Plus, unpacking becomes way less overwhelming when you have a system.
Packing Records in Boxes
Stand records up vertically in boxes, just like they sit on your shelf. Never, ever stack them flat – physics will warp them into potato chips. Don’t jam too many into one box either – I learned this when I threw my back out trying to move a box with 50 records. Stick to about 25-30 per box max.
Slip a piece of cardboard between every handful of records for support. Leave just enough wiggle room so they’re not crushed but can’t slide around. Give each box a gentle shake test before sealing – if you hear movement, add more padding.
Labeling and Securing Boxes
Label everything clearly – not just “RECORDS” but details like “Jazz Records A-M” or “70s Rock.” Number your boxes and keep a simple inventory. After my last move, I spent weeks hunting for my Bowie albums because I’d just written “Records” on five identical boxes.
Use good packing tape and reinforce the bottom in an H-pattern. My buddy cheaped out on tape once and watched in horror as the bottom split open while carrying his punk collection up stairs. Not worth it.
Handling and Transporting With Care
Move records yourself whenever possible. The back of your car is safer than a moving truck where they might get stacked under furniture or cooked in summer heat. I keep mine upright, secured with the seatbelt.
If you must use movers, be specific: “These boxes must stay upright and can’t have anything stacked on them.” Watch them load if possible. When you arrive, unpack and inspect records within a day or two, while you can still make damage claims.
Got more than a hundred records? Save yourself the stress and find movers who specifically advertise experience with musical instruments or collectibles. Drop them a message today – an accurate vinyl collection is irreplaceable, and good movers understand this isn’t just “more stuff” but something that deserves genuine care.
Other Moving Articles: