Workshop Move Packing List

Workshop Move Packing List
Here’s a handy little list for anyone moving their jewellery workshop, studio or other keepsake and artistic business. I looked on Google and couldn’t find anything so I’ve typed this out and hoping it will help someone. Is there anything I’ve forgotten? This week I’m packing up the Newport Docks workshop and moving it to our new home in Bath.

Workshop Relocation Packing Checklist

1. IT and Electronics

Computers/Laptops		Back up all data. Use original boxes if available.
Monitors & Stands		Wrap screens well. Pack cables separately.
Keyboards & Mice
Routers, Modems, & Switches		Label all cables and devices clearly.
Power Supplies & Surge Protectors
Cables (labeled)		Bundle and label each cable (e.g., ‘PC to Monitor’, ‘Router Power’).
External Hard Drives / Storage		Pack securely.

2. Machinery & Equipment

Laser engraver		Consult manual for moving instructions (e.g., securing the head, draining/securing water chiller).
3D Printers		Secure moving parts (e.g., print head, bed). Consult manual.
Other Machinery		(e.g., Tumbler, Polishing Motor)
Tools		(e.g., Rotary tools, hand tools, measuring instruments)

3. Mould Making & Casting

Moulds (organized)		Group and label by project/type. Ensure no residue.
Casting Equipment		(e.g., Vacuum chamber, pump, pressure pot) Clean thoroughly.
Silicones, Resins, & Compounds		Ensure containers are tightly sealed and upright.
Measuring & Mixing Tools
Safety Gear (Chemicals)		(e.g., Respirators, gloves, eye protection) Workshop Move Packing List essentials

 

4. Artistic & Jewellery Specifics

Jewellery Components/Findings		Use small, sturdy containers with clear labels.
Metals & Wire Stock		Bundle and secure.
Beads & Stones		Keep in labeled, airtight containers.
Bench Tools & Jigs
Chemicals & Solvents		Pack according to safety standards (separate, sealed, and clearly marked box).
Finishing/Patina Supplies
Artwork/Samples		Wrap and protect fragile pieces.

Workshop Move Packing List Most Important

The most important things are your current memorial orders and your freezer, if you work with breastmilk. If at all possible, set up a freezer at your destination a few days in advance because it’s not good to turn them on straight away. When you bring the frozen breastmilk over then you can turn on the new freezer. You can usually get a chest freezer on your local Gumtree or Facebook marketplace or have a small chest freezer like this delivered from Amazon

5. Current Orders & High-Value Items

In-Progress Jewellery Orders		Pack last, unpack first. Clearly mark box as ‘URGENT – CURRENT ORDERS’. Put in the front seat of the car if possible!
Finished-but-Unshipped Stock		Inventory and pack securely.
High-Value/Small Tools		Consider carrying these items yourself rather than with movers.
Order/Customer Paperwork		Keep with the ‘URGENT’ box for easy access.

6. Stock, Inventory, and Shipping

Finished Stock		Inventory counts. Pack neatly by type/SKU.
Packaging Materials		(e.g., Bubble wrap, boxes, mailers, tissue paper)
Shipping Labels & Printer Supplies
Display Items		(e.g., Mannequins, risers, trays) Wrap carefully.
Product Photography Gear		(e.g., Lights, tripod, backdrop)

7. Office & Paperwork

Paperwork & Files		Keep essential documents separate (Lease, insurance, supplier contacts).
Binders & Notebooks
Office Supplies		(e.g., Pens, stapler, tape, notepads)
Essential Box		Include tape, sharpies, box cutters, first-aid kit, snacks for move day.

 

8. Kitchen & Break Area

Small Appliances		(e.g., Coffee maker, kettle, microwave) Clean before packing.
Mugs, Plates, & Cutlery
Cleaning Supplies		(e.g., Soap, sponge, paper towels) Pack these to use for the clean-up in the old space.
Snack/Coffee Supplies		Essential items for the move crew/yourself.

9. General Supplies & Packing

Empty Boxes (Various Sizes)
Packing Tape & Dispensers
Bubble Wrap & Packing Peanuts
Permanent Markers & Labels		Essential for clear box labelling.
Trash Bags		For clearing out non-essential items.
Dolly/Hand Truck

Workshop Move Packing List – Pro-Tips for a Workshop Move

1. Label Everything Clearly: Use this Workshop Move Packing List to make a simple system: Box Number / Category (e.g., MOULDS, IT, STOCK) / New Room (e.g., OFFICE, STUDIO). Take a quick picture of the label before closing the box.
2. The “First Day” Box: Designate one box with everything you need immediately: frozen breastmilk, memorial and keepsake orders, tools for reassembly, a few cups, coffee, essential paperwork, tape, markers, and maybe a power strip.
3. Photograph Your Set-Up: Before you unplug the IT equipment or take down shelves, take photos. They’ll be invaluable when you’re setting up the new space.
4. Prioritise Safety: Ensure all hazardous materials (solvents, chemicals) are packed strictly according to safety guidelines (tightly sealed, separated, and marked).
5. Inventory Check: Use this move as a chance to cull old stock, broken tools, or equipment you no longer use.
6. Take metre readings: Get the electricity metre reading for your supplier.
7. Change of address: Complete a spreadsheet or list of contacting your utilities providers such as gas and electric, internet, bottled gas, HMRC/Inland Revenue etc, update the address on your website.