How to Safely Store and Protect Your Neon Signs During a Move?

Moving can be a stressful experience, especially when you have delicate items like neon signs that require special care. Neon signs, known for their vibrant glow and unique designs, are fragile and can be easily damaged during a move if not handled properly. To ensure your neon signs arrive at their new location intact and in perfect working condition, follow these detailed steps on how to safely store and protect them during a move.

1. Gather Necessary Supplies

Before you start packing, make sure you have all the necessary supplies:

Bubble Wrap: Essential for cushioning and protecting the glass tubes.
Packing Paper: Provides an additional layer of protection.
Sturdy Boxes: Choose boxes that are slightly larger than your neon signs.
Packing Tape: Ensures the boxes are securely closed.
Foam Board or Cardboard Sheets: Offers structural support inside the boxes.
Labels: To mark the boxes as "Fragile."

2. Prepare the Neon Sign

Start by turning off and unplugging your neon sign. Allow it to cool down if it has been on for a while. Clean the sign gently with a soft cloth to remove any dust or dirt, which can scratch the glass during transport.

3. Disassemble If Possible

If your neon sign can be disassembled, carefully take it apart. This might include removing the power supply or detaching the sign from its mounting frame. Keep all small parts and screws in a labeled bag to avoid losing them.

4. Wrap the Neon Sign

Bubble Wrap

Wrap the neon sign in several layers of bubble wrap, ensuring that all parts of the sign are well-cushioned.
Pay special attention to the glass tubes, making sure they are fully protected.

Packing Paper

After bubble wrapping, cover the entire sign with packing paper for additional protection.
Secure the wrapping with tape, but avoid taping directly onto the sign.

5. Prepare the Box

Reinforce the Box

Line the bottom of the box with foam board or several layers of cardboard for added support.
Ensure the box is sturdy and has no structural weaknesses.

Cushioning

Add a layer of packing peanuts or crumpled packing paper at the bottom of the box.

6. Pack the Neon Sign

Placing the Sign

Carefully place the wrapped neon sign in the center of the box.
Fill any gaps around the sign with packing peanuts or crumpled paper to prevent movement during transit.

Top Cushioning

Add another layer of foam board or cardboard on top of the sign for extra protection.
Finish with a final layer of packing material to ensure the sign is snugly packed.

7. Seal and Label the Box

Sealing

Seal the box securely with packing tape, making sure all edges are reinforced.
Use additional tape to secure the bottom of the box if necessary.

Labeling

Clearly label the box with "Fragile" and "Handle with Care" stickers.
Indicate which side of the box should be kept upright with "This Side Up" arrows.

8. Transporting the Neon Sign

Loading

When loading the neon sign into the moving vehicle, place it in a secure, upright position.
Avoid stacking heavy items on top of the box containing the neon sign.

Unloading

Upon arrival, carefully unload the box and inspect it for any visible damage before opening.
Unpack the neon sign with the same care you used to pack it.

9. Reassembling and Testing

Reassembly

If you disassembled your neon sign, reattach any removed parts and secure them properly.
Mount the sign in its new location if applicable.

Testing

Plug in the neon sign and turn it on to ensure it’s working correctly.
Check for any issues such as flickering or dim areas that might have resulted from the move.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage to your neon signs during a move. Proper packing, handling, and transport are crucial to preserving the integrity and functionality of these delicate items. With careful preparation, your neon signs will continue to shine brightly in their new location, adding that unique charm and personality to your space.