Whether you plan to move across town, across the US, or even overseas, a little planning and and proper packing will ensure your sewing machine arrives at your new destination in perfect condition ready for you to sew!
Even if you hire a moving company to pack your household items, pack your sewing machine or serger yourself. The most important thing is to use the original box and foam packing material in which your sewing machine was shipped. It may seem a little tricky to get everything in place like it was packed at the factory, but if you have any questions, your friendly, local sewing machine dealer will be able to show you how everything goes together.
Take photographs of your machine from various angles before it is packed.
If there is a lot of lint build-up in the bobbin casing area, now is a good time to clean it properly. Lower the presser foot onto a piece of fabric (which also protects the feed dogs) and put the needle in the down position into the fabric.
Gather all your accessories and most importantly, be sure to pack the power cord!
If you are moving overseas, you will need to know if your machine has dual (110/220) voltage and dual (50/60) hertz. This is IMPORTANT! Some of the newer machines are dual voltage, but not all. In fact, many of the older models are not. If your sewing machine is NOT dual voltage / dual hertz, you should not run it using a transformer in foreign countries with 220v. Not sure? Check with your local dealer and be sure.
Don’t seal the box! You must be willing to show the movers (or moving foreman) your machine and the box contents to make sure your sewing machine is actually inside the box. There are many liability issues involved here, and the foreman should record the serial number and other information on your machine. This is good protection for both you and the moving company.
If you have the original sales receipt for your machine, hand carry it with you along with your other important documents.
Watch the movers load the box with your precious cargo (I’m talking about your sewing machine, not the wedding china. OK, maybe the china too). Make sure they keep the box right side up as indicated on the box. Don’t allow them to pack it upside down.
When your shipment is delivered at your new destination, I’m sure your sewing machine box will be one of the first you’ll unpack. First, check for signs of damage on the outside of the box. Take photos of any signs of damage or water marks. Unpack the box and plug in your sewing machine. Give it a test run to test for problems or trauma (seriously). Most moving companies only have a limited window of time for you to file a claim (such as 90 days) so you’ll want to make sure your machine is working just as it did when you packed it as soon after your move as possible. Don’t wait until later to sew a few test patterns or use the embroidery unit if you have one.
If there is a problem, take it to your new sewing dealer for some TLC (this is a good time to establish a rapport with your new dealer anyway). Tell them you moved and ask them to write in detail any service they perform on your machine on the receipt. You’ll need a copy of this receipt if you file a claim.
Nothing makes a new residence feel like home as much as getting your sewing space set up and ready to go. I hope these tips help you if and when you find you are relocating. Good luck with your move, and just remember it will soon feel like home once you’re sitting behind your sewing machine stitching again!
