Level up Your Move – How to Pack Board Games for Moving Without Losing a Piece

March 13, 2024 / Posted in How-to
Madison Rogers

Born and raised in Houston Madison is a content writer who loves traveling. She has lived in different states and is always eager to share her knowledge with others.

Wondering how to pack board games for moving without losing a single meeple? Fear not, game aficionado! We’re rolling the dice on secure packing strategies for games, guaranteeing that your collection arrives intact and ready for game night. With a dash of savvy, we’ll transform packing from a daunting task into a strategic victory. Let’s level up your move and keep those game boxes as pristine as your high scores!

People playing a board game
Moving with board games is easy when everything is packed securely

How to Pack Board Games for Moving Like a Pro

Understanding how to pack and move board games like a pro starts with devising a game plan. By organizing the cherished collection, wrapping each piece with care, and choosing the right box for the journey, you can avoid relocation mistakes that lead to damaged components. This methodical approach ensures a stress-free relocation. The key is to select dry and sturdy boxes that will keep every game safe inside the moving truck. The last step is to seal the box and check whether everything fits snugly.

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Sort Through the Cherished Board Game Collection

When it’s time to move, the game collection demands a critical eye.

Deciding what to keep and what to get rid of is akin to choosing the right strategy for victory.

Begin by assessing the emotional and monetary value of each game.

Those who haven’t seen the light of day in years or are missing pieces might be better off rehomed.

41% of game enthusiasts buy 5 to 10 new games annually

Keep the titles that spark joy, have sentimental value, or are in constant rotation on game nights. This discerning approach not only lightens the load but also guarantees the collection remains curated and meaningful.

Inspect the Contents of Each Game and Create a List

As you sort through the games, take the opportunity to inspect the contents of each box carefully. Creating a detailed inventory of the titles becomes a crucial part of move-out cleaning tasks, ensuring nothing valuable is left behind.

Examine boxes and components for any damage or missing pieces, and consider this the perfect time to dust off those boxes that have been sitting on the shelf. Adding games to the home inventory list helps in keeping track of the collection and aids in setting up more efficiently in the new space.

Azul board game on the table
Check the value of games that you want to discard because selling them can be an option

Gather Necessary Packing Supplies and Materials

Securing the right packing supplies is paramount when preparing for a move. If the original packaging is still around, there’s no need to splurge on additional materialsbubble wrap and sturdy boxes will suffice. However, in the absence of original packing, a comprehensive list of supplies becomes essential to protect each title.

Bubble wrap, packing paper, and plastic zip bags are fundamental in protecting components. When selecting boxes, determine required both size and strength to accommodate various sizes and weights, ensuring every game remains secure during transit.

Get a Few Special Supplies for Delicate Games

For those particularly fragile or oversized titles, acquiring special supplies can make a significant difference. Custom solutions, such as foam inserts or tailor-made boxes, offer an extra layer of protection. Foam pouches are also invaluable for safeguarding delicate parts.

A savvy tip for enthusiasts looking to save on relocation costs is to scout Craigslist website for deals on board game packing supplies. This approach not only secures the needed materials at a fraction of the cost but also contributes to a more sustainable process by reusing supplies.

A piggy bank and money
Calculate in advance how much you are willing to spend on materials and supplies

The Step-By-Step Packing Process Explained

Navigating the maze of the packing process for game night essentials demands attention to detail from the get-go. Beginning with the preparatory steps sets the stage for a seamless transition.

First, ensure that each title is thoroughly inspected and cleaned, laying a solid foundation for the packing phase. Prioritize securing delicate pieces in plastic zip bags and wrapping boxes in protective materials. These initial actions are pivotal in protecting cherished pieces, enabling a stress-free experience when relocating to a new city.

Take Extra Time to Prepare Each Game

The key to learning how to pack games for shipping is patience. Taking extra time to prepare each title thoroughly can make a significant difference in the outcome. You don’t want to regret handling a cherished title improperly. Secure loose pieces in plastic bags. Make sure that no small part goes missing during the move.

Pay special attention to the condition of boxes and components, as this will guide how much protection each title needs. Wrapping each game in packing paper or bubble wrap provides an additional layer of security, buffering against bumps and jostles encountered en route.

Chess pieces on a chessboard
Take precautionary measures - open the cases to check whether no piece is missing

Stack the Games in the Cardboard Containers

Organizing games for relocation requires a strategic approach to stacking in cardboard containers. Begin by placing the heaviest and largest titles at the bottom, progressively working towards the lighter and smaller ones on top.

This method prevents undue pressure on more delicate items. Each container should be fully packed, yet not overstuffed, to maintain the integrity of the collection during transport.

Cushion the Boxes

Utilize bubble wrap, packing peanuts, or crumpled packing paper to fill empty spaces within each box, absorbing shocks and vibrations that occur in transit. This layer of protection is especially important for fragile items or those with intricate components. A useful hack is to use towels or clothes as eco-friendly cushioning options, offering dual benefits of protection.

Seal the Container With Tape

Once every game is securely packed and cushioned, sealing the container with tape is the final step before long-distance movers can take care of the rest. Use high-quality tape to reinforce the bottom and top seams of the box, applying a couple of layers for added security.

Make sure to tape across the middle, where the box flaps meet, creating a tight seal. Before sealing, give the box a gentle shake to check if there’s any movement inside. If you hear items shifting, open the box and add more cushioning. Properly sealed boxes will keep your collection safe.

A man taping a labeled box for a long-distance move
If you're using plastic containers, use tape as well for extra protection

Advanced Packing Techniques to Remember

Beyond the usual bubble wrap and sturdy boxes, consider vacuum-sealing some titles to drastically reduce space and protect them from moisture.

This is especially beneficial for card-heavy titles that might suffer from humidity.

For those with rare or collector’s edition games, custom foam inserts can be a game-changer, offering tailored protection that matches the unique contours of the game pieces.

Amazon is by far the most used for buying board games

They will remain immobile and secure throughout the move. For added security, using tamper-evident seals can give you peace of mind.

Bundle Small Games Together

When organizing board games for relocation, especially for interstate moving, an efficient strategy is bundling small cases together. Utilizing dividers or smaller boxes within a larger one allows you to maximize space while ensuring the collection stays organized and protected. This will make unpacking at your destination more manageable.

Handle Collectible or Valuable Games With Extra Care

Moving collectible board games requires extra precautions to preserve their condition and value. There are a few tips and tricks that would allow for safer transport. These include the following:

  • Use acid-free paper – wrap boxes in acid-free paper to protect against deterioration.
  • Bubble wrap individually – for added protection, bubble wrap each game individually, ensuring corners and edges are well-protected.
  • Sturdy boxes – opt for double-walled cardboard boxes that provide superior protection against impacts.
Long-distance movers carrying boxes
Be extra careful with vintage titles like The Shadow Board Game or Swift's Meats Game

Labeling Made Simple – Don’t Skip Marking All Boxes

Effective labeling is crucial for a seamless transition. This informs the cross-country movers from the moving and auto transport company about the contents and handling instructions of each box.

Each container should be marked with a detailed description of its contents, the room it belongs to, and any special handling instructions, such as “Fragile” or “This Side Up.” Using different colors of labels for each room can further simplify the unloading process. You can go a step further by adding titles of the games to the box to save time later.

We recommend drawing the movers’ attention to the boxes with the most valuable belongings. Experienced crews like the one at Flat Price Auto Transport and Moving always guarantee the safe handling of all valuables.

Tips for Unpacking and Setting up Board Games Post-Move

After learning how to pack board games for shipping, it’s equally important to master how to organize them post-move.

The first step in this process involves prioritizing which games to unpack based on their use and significance.

The most frequently played or treasured items should be readily accessible.

Studies show 43% of gamers play a few times a week

Establish a designated gaming area in the new home. This space should be inviting and comfortable, encouraging leisure time and gatherings. As you unpack, take the opportunity to reevaluate the collection, arranging titles in a way that enhances your living space. This thoughtful approach makes it easier to pick up right where you left off.

A happy woman unpacking after a long-distance moving
Stack the board games in a visible and dry place close to the designated gaming spot

Call Us to Transport Your Board Games Quickly and Effortlessly

From employing advanced packing techniques to the strategic bundling and careful handling of collectible items, each step is vital for a successful relocation. Recognizing the complexities involved in this process, our company, Flat Price Auto Transport, and Moving, stands ready to offer unparalleled support.

As a premier cross-country moving company, we provide top-tier long-distance moving services, storage solutions, car shipping services, and packing services tailored to meet your needs. If you’re seeking a partner to transport the game collection quickly, we invite you to contact us.

Let us make your transition smooth and worry-free, allowing you to focus on settling into your new home. Since we are a car shipping company as well, let us handle your car as well as all gaming collections.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Should I Pack Board Games With Many Small Pieces?

Small, sealable plastic bags serve as an ideal solution for grouping pieces, with clear labeling for easy identification. For added security, small plastic containers can replace or supplement original packaging, especially if it’s compromised. Filling any remaining space within the box with foam peanuts or bubble wrap prevents movement and potential damage.

Can I Stack Board Games in Large Boxes When Moving?

When consolidating items in large boxes for transportation, the method of stacking is pivotal to preventing damage. The heaviest items should form the base, with lighter items on top, ensuring no undue pressure is placed on more delicate contents.

Employing cardboard dividers can offer structural integrity and minimize shifting. This technique not only maximizes space but also enhances protection, making it a practical approach for efficient space usage.

What’s the Best Way to Protect Vintage or Collectible Board Games During a Move?

Using acid-free paper for wrapping each item protects against deterioration over time. For further security, individual bubble wrapping, particularly around corners and edges, provides a buffer against shocks and impacts. Selecting double-walled cardboard boxes offers robust protection. Having insurance coverage grants peace of mind, ensuring value is protected against unforeseen circumstances.

Should I Wrap Each Board Game Individually?

Using bubble wrap or foam sheets for each piece provides a tailored protective layer, guarding against scratches, pressure, and impact. This method is especially beneficial for items with intricate parts or delicate surfaces. Taping securely after wrapping prevents unwrapping during transit, maintaining the integrity of the protective layer.

How Do I Organize My Board Game Collection at My New Place?

After movers from the long-distance moving company transport the boxes, organizing items at a new location begins with a systematic unpacking process. Establishing a dedicated area for leisure and entertainment. The game collection should be prominently displayed and easily accessed. Using shelving units with adjustable heights allows for customized organization, accommodating various sizes and ensuring that each item is visible and reachable.

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