How to Pack Power Tools for a House Move
Power tools combine weight, sharp attachments and, for cordless models, batteries that need their own handling separate from the tool itself. Removing batteries, keeping chargers matched to their tools, and packing heaviest items at the bottom of the box are the habits that get a toolbox through a move undamaged.
Remove batteries from cordless power tools before packing. Use original cases where possible, keep chargers labelled with their matching tool, and pack blades and bits in a separate, clearly marked container.
Removing Batteries From Cordless Tools
Take the battery out of every cordless power tool before packing it, rather than leaving it attached.
Lithium-ion batteries, the type used in the great majority of modern cordless tools, are treated as a transport consideration by many couriers and removal firms because of the small risk of a short circuit if the terminals make contact with something metal during a bumpy journey.
Pack batteries together in their own labelled bag or the tool's own case pocket, away from loose metal objects such as screws or drill bits.
Charge Level Before Storage
Using Original Cases Where You Have Them
Keeping Chargers Matched to Their Tools
Label each charger with the tool or tool set it belongs to before packing, either with tape and a marker or by packing charger and tool together in the same box.
Chargers are easy to separate from their tools during a move and, unlike batteries, are rarely universal across brands, so a mismatched charger found weeks later is a genuine inconvenience rather than a quick fix.
Blades, Bits and Sharp Attachments
- 01
Drill bits, saw blades and router cutters should be packed in a dedicated container, a small toolbox, a divided case, or even a block of wood with holes drilled for bits, rather than loose in a general tools box where they can cut through cardboard or injure someone reaching in later.
- 02
Blade guards should stay fitted wherever the tool has one, and any blade without a guard is worth wrapping individually in thick cardboard.
Weight Distribution Inside the Box
Power tools are among the heaviest items packed by weight for their size, so use smaller, sturdier boxes rather than large ones that become too heavy to lift safely once filled.
Pack the heaviest tools at the bottom, lighter accessories on top, and avoid mixing power tools into the same box as lighter household items, where the tool's weight can crush whatever is packed underneath it.
Draining Fuel From Petrol-Powered Tools
Petrol-powered tools, generators, some larger saws, follow the same rule as garden equipment: drain the fuel tank before moving day rather than transporting it part-full.
This removes both the fire risk and the strong fuel smell that a leaking tank can leave on everything packed nearby for the length of the journey.
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Original Cases vs Improvised Packing for Power Tools
A home workshop takes longer to pack safely than its size suggests, mostly because so much of its contents are heavy, sharp, or both at once.
Giant Van's packing service starts from £150 and covers materials, wrapping and loading.
Man and van and house removal bookings include careful handling of boxed tools and equipment as standard, with our crews used to lifting dense, heavy boxes safely.
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How to Pack Power Tools for a House Move — FAQs
Should batteries be removed from cordless power tools before moving?
Yes. Lithium-ion batteries are treated as a transport consideration because of the small risk of a short circuit if the terminals contact loose metal, so remove them and pack separately in a labelled bag.
What charge level should a power tool battery be at for a move?
For storage longer than a day or two, roughly a third to a half charge is better than fully charged or fully flat. For a same-day move this matters less.
How should power tool blades and bits be packed?
In a dedicated container such as a small toolbox or divided case, rather than loose in a general tools box, where an unguarded blade or bit can cut through cardboard or injure someone reaching in.
Is it safe to pack a full petrol generator or saw for a move?
Only once the fuel tank has been drained. Petrol-powered equipment should never travel part-full of fuel, both for fire safety and to avoid a strong fuel smell affecting nearby items.
How heavy should a box of power tools be packed?
Use smaller, sturdier boxes than you would for lighter items, since power tools are heavy for their size and a large box quickly becomes unsafe to lift once filled.
What is the best way to keep tool chargers with the right tool?
Label each charger with the tool it belongs to, or pack the charger in the same box as its tool, since chargers are rarely interchangeable across brands and are easy to separate during a move.
Sources and further reading
These are the official UK sources that set the rules for a job like this one. Each link goes straight to the source so you can check it yourself. Links open in a new tab.
- WRAP
WRAP's guidance on reuse and recycling, including what to do with packing materials and bulky items you no longer want.
- HSE — Manual handling at work: a brief guide (INDG143)
The Health and Safety Executive's guide to lifting and carrying heavy loads without injuring yourself.
- Consumer Rights Act 2015, s.49 (reasonable care and skill)
Section 49 of the Consumer Rights Act 2015: a service you pay for must be carried out with reasonable care and skill.
- Consumer Contracts (Information, Cancellation and Additional Charges) Regulations 2013
The regulations covering what a trader must tell you before you book, and your right to cancel a service booked online or by phone.
All links checked on or after 1 August 2026.
Compiled by the Giant Van editorial team
Giant Van Ltd. Registered in England & Wales.