Moving is already stressful enough without wondering whether your TV will survive the trip or if your smart lights will ever connect to Wi-Fi again. When your home includes Ring cameras, speakers, streaming devices, smart bulbs and other connected technology, moving can feel even more complicated.
The good news is that a little preparation can make the process much easier. Use this checklist to keep your smart-home devices organized, protected and ready to reconnect in your new space.
Before the Move
Start by making a list of every connected device in your home. It is easy to remember the television and router, but smaller items like smart plugs, light bulbs, voice assistants and streaming devices can be overlooked.
Your list may include:
- TVs and remotes
- Modems, routers and Wi-Fi extenders
- Ring cameras and video doorbells
- Smart speakers and sound systems
- Streaming devices
- Smart bulbs, switches and plugs
- Smart thermostats
- Security sensors and hubs
Take a few photos of each setup before unplugging anything. A quick picture of the cords, ports and device placement can save you from trying to remember how everything was connected later.
This is also a good time to label cords and accessories. Use tape, small bags or cable labels to identify which cords belong to each device. Keep remotes, mounting hardware and adapters with the equipment they belong to instead of placing everything in one mystery box.
Plan for Wi-Fi at Your New Home
Many smart-home devices depend on Wi-Fi, so getting your new internet service arranged early can prevent a lot of frustration. Check which providers are available at your new address using the FCC National Broadband Map, then schedule installation or service transfer before moving day if possible.
Write down your current Wi-Fi network name and password before disconnecting your router. If you use the same network name and password at your new home, some devices may reconnect automatically. Others may still need to be reset or added again through their apps.
Pack your modem, router and Wi-Fi extenders together in a clearly marked box that stays easy to reach. You will probably want these before almost anything else is unpacked.
Prepare Cameras and Security Devices
Before removing a Ring camera, video doorbell or another security device, check the manufacturer’s instructions. Some devices need to be removed from the home listed in the app, reset or updated with a new address before they can be installed somewhere else.
Do not forget to save any footage you want to keep and gather all mounting plates, screws, charging cables and batteries. Place each camera and its accessories in a labeled bag so nothing gets separated during the move.
If you use Google Nest products, Google provides instructions for how to move Nest devices to another home, including cameras, doorbells, thermostats and other connected products.
Pack TVs and Sound Systems Carefully
Take a picture of the back of each TV, speaker or receiver before disconnecting it. Label HDMI cables, power cords and other connections so they are easier to match later.
Whenever possible, pack TVs in their original boxes. If those boxes are long gone, use a box designed specifically for televisions and protect the screen with proper padding. TVs should remain upright during transportation rather than being laid flat.
Speakers, soundbars and receivers should also be wrapped separately. Remove batteries from remotes if the equipment will be stored for an extended period, and keep small accessories together in labeled bags.
If packing electronics feels overwhelming, our packing solutions can help make the entire process more manageable.
Smart Lights, Plugs and Smaller Devices
Smart bulbs and plugs may be small, but they are easy to lose or damage during a move. Allow bulbs to cool completely before removing them, then wrap each one individually. Label them by room if you plan to recreate the same setup in your new home.
For smart switches, thermostats or other hardwired devices, consider whether they are meant to stay with the property. If you are taking a hardwired device with you, make sure it is removed safely and that the original equipment is reinstalled when necessary. A qualified professional should handle anything involving electrical wiring.
Set Up Your Technology in the Right Order
Once you arrive, avoid trying to reconnect everything at once. Start with your modem and router, then confirm that your internet connection is working. From there, set up any hubs or bridges before moving on to cameras, speakers, lights and entertainment systems.
A simple order to follow is:
- Modem and router
- Wi-Fi extenders or mesh system
- Smart-home hubs
- Cameras and security devices
- TVs and streaming devices
- Speakers and sound systems
- Lights, plugs and other accessories
Update your home address in each device’s app, especially for security systems, thermostats and location-based automations. Test every device before throwing away packaging or marking the job complete.
Take Some of the Stress Out of Moving
Technology may make your home more convenient, but moving it can create a little extra anxiety. Staying organized, labeling everything and setting devices up in the right order can prevent most common problems.
While you focus on getting your smart home reconnected, 2 Dudes Moving can take care of the heavy lifting. Learn more about our residential moving services or request a free moving estimate for your upcoming move.