How to pack DVDs, CDs, and Video Games

Packing media for moving

When it comes to entertainment, many things like music, movies and video games have migrated to online streaming services. But many people want to keep physical collections for nostalgia or because they prefer consuming media offline. And when you need to relocate, especially long distance, it’s important to pack things properly to protect them during transit.  

Whether you’ve cultivated a collection of DVDs, CDs and video games for many years or own copies of just a few favorites, we’ll help with the steps you need to move them carefully. 

Supplies for shipping DVDs, CDs and video games 

You’ll need these items on hand: 

• Small or medium moving boxes (quantity depends on the size of your collection) 
• Bubble Wrap® or packing paper 
• Packing tape
• A marker (for labeling boxes) 

6 steps to pack movies, music and games  

Follow these steps to keep everything safe while you travel: 

Step 1: Sort the collection

Place all DVDs,  CDs and video games in separate piles based on their case sizes.

Step 2: Line the box

Fold a sheet of packing paper or Bubble Wrap® to line the bottom of the moving box. It’s best to use a small or medium box, since media items can get heavy.

Step 3: Load cases spine side up

Place like-sized cases in the box making sure to keep the spines facing up (for protection and to fit more things in the box). Start with the larger cases first to get the most out of the space. 

Step 4: Fill gaps

When the box is full, fill in any gaps with crushed paper or Bubble Wrap® to keep things from shifting. 

Step 5: Add more layers (if there’s room)

If the box still has space, you can add more cases. Just place another folded piece of packing on top of the first layer, then complete steps 3 – 5 until the box is full. 

Step 6: Seal and label the box

When the box is full, close it and tape it shut. Make sure to mark it “Fragile” and indicate the correct side up. It’s best to load these boxes last to avoid other things being stacked on top. 

To see the DVD and CD packing steps in action, check out this video: 

FAQs  

What should I do if I don’t have all the cases? 

If you don’t have the original packaging for DVDs, CDs or video games you can purchase blank cases to store them. Then you would pack them with the other media items.  You can also use a larger case with sleeves to store the loose discs. If you go this route, make sure to pack it in a box standing up like you would a book or binder to keep it safe. 

What if I need to pack vinyl records?

You should pack records the same way as CDs. Line the box and place the records upright with the closed spine facing up. Never pack stacked records flat because the pressure might crack the vinyl. Make sure to mark the box “Fragile” and label the correct side up.

How should I pack vintage video games, VHS tapes or cassettes? 

Vintage video games, VHS tapes and cassettes are best transported in their original cases if you have them. If not, wrap the games or tapes  in packing paper or Bubble Wrap® before packing them upright in a box. These vintage collections shouldn’t be exposed to high temperatures, so it’s best to transport them with you in a personal vehicle when moving during hot weather.  

What about smaller game cartridges? 

For cartridges the size of camera SD cards, it’s best to keep them in original packaging if you have it. Just secure the loose cases in in a bundle of Bubble Wrap® or place them in a game storage case that holds the cartridges in or out of their cases.

Have questions? 

If you have any packing questions, let us know in the comments! And it’s also a great time to learn more about U-Pack®, a DIY-moving service where you handle the packing, loading and unloading, and we handle all the driving. Call 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to speak to a moving consultant or request a free online quote today!