How to Transport a 3D Printer

When researching the best 3D printers, you’ll need to understand how to get it from point A to B. Knowing how to transport a 3D printer is not hard; you just need to remove the filament, cables, and build plate. Then, you can secure all moving parts, like the extruder, with zip ties. The best printers all need these security measures taken to be considered travel-ready.

Looking for more 3D printing-related content? Feel free to check out some of our other sources, like how to store 3D printer filament or how to unclog a printer nozzle.

How to Transport 3D Printer

As with moving any delicate, expensive device, properly transporting a 3D printing technology is crucial to ensure it stays safe. Unfortunately, however, many find this out too late when their 3D printing models start turning out all whacky.

Thankfully, there are some general tips, tricks, and guidelines to help secure your device during transport. In addition, there is a handful of moving parts in all types of 3D print devices, and we’ll take you through, step-by-step, so everything goes smoothly and doesn’t affect your printing process.

If you get through transporting your printer and have questions about putting back together, you can read our guide on how to set up a 3D printer. Likewise, if you want to keep up with some more helpful tips, we have an article covering how to update the 3D printer firmware.

STEP 1 Examine Your Machine

1. Locate and note any moving or loose part or one that might be vulnerable to damage during the moving process.

STEP 2 Remove the Filament/Material and Printer Cables

1. Whether you use a filament or resin-based 3D printer, take out or drain the material.
2. Then, take out any chords or cables and place them in a separate box.

STEP 3 Remove Print Bed

1. Remove the plate from the printer and place it securely in a separate box with proper padding. This is essential, as the print bed is one of the most likely areas to become damaged, especially if you have a printer with a delicate material like glass.

STEP 4 Secure Moving Parts

1. Many 3D printers have a handful of moving carriages. To secure the carriages, use zip ties around the frame to fasten them securely.
2. Be sure not to tie anything too tightly, which may bend or break parts of your printer.
3. Likewise, zip-tie the extruder to the printer frame.