From the box a new lock comes in, keep anything that does one of three jobs: identifies the exact lock, authorizes new keys or a reset, or replaces a part that only fits this hardware. That usually means the instruction sheet, any key code or setup card, the spare keys, and the small bag of leftover screws and strike parts. Once the lock works smoothly, the box and inserts can go.
Identify, authorize, replace: a rule for sorting the box
An item in a new lock's box earns a place in storage only if it does one of three jobs. It identifies the lock if it tells someone later which model and finish is on the door. It authorizes something if it lets you get a matching key made or reset a smart lock. It replaces something if it is a part that only fits this hardware. Everything else is packaging.
Give the lock a few days of use before recycling anything. If the latch starts catching on the strike plate, the metal plate on the frame that the latch slides into, the leftover parts are still on hand.
What each kept item is for later
The instruction sheet
The instruction sheet usually shows the model and finish, which covers the identify job. When you want a matching lock on another door, a replacement trim piece, or a rekey, that model information takes the guesswork out.
Key code and setup cards
Some locks come with a card printed with a key code, a number that describes how the key is cut. Some smart locks include a card with a setup or administrator code instead. Both do the authorize job. A key code can help get a matching key ordered. A setup code is often needed to set a smart lock up again after it has been reset, or to change who can use it.
Spare keys
Factory keys from the box are the cleanest originals you will have. A copy made from a worn copy carries the wear forward, so set one factory key aside as the one you duplicate from, and do not carry it.
The small parts bag
The little bag often holds screws in more than one length, an alternate strike plate, and sometimes spacers for a different door thickness. These do the replace job. A screw from a general store can look right and still have the wrong thread, and the alternate strike plate can help if the door or frame shifts later.
Why the whole box is not worth saving, but a few cards need care
Saving the entire box buries the few useful items under cardboard. Tossing everything once the door locks leaves you guessing the model later and missing the one screw that fits. The box, trays, foam, and marketing inserts do none of the three jobs, so they can go.
Key code and setup cards are the sensitive part of the package. Anyone who reads the code may be able to get a key made or take control of a smart lock. These cards should not stay in the box, in a drawer by the door, or anywhere near the lock. Treat them like a spare key.
Where each group goes
Two storage spots and the recycling bin handle everything in the box.
- Secure records spot: the key code card, setup card, instruction sheet, and the set-aside factory key, kept with other household or business papers and away from the door.
- Small parts envelope: leftover screws, strike plate, and spacers, sealed with the door's name written on the front. A tool drawer is fine, since these parts open nothing.
- Recycling: the box, trays, inserts, and anything that fails all three questions.
Property managers can use the same split one door at a time: one file per unit or door holding that lock's sheet and any code card, and a parts envelope labeled with the same unit number. When a lock in one unit needs work, the right card and screws are together.
If you cannot tell what a piece is or which items a later job will need, call Nostrand Locksmith at (516) 644-8976 and describe what came in the box.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to throw away a card that shows my key code?
Throwing away a key code card is safe only if the code is destroyed first, because a readable code may let someone get a matching key made. Shred the card or cut through the number rather than recycling it whole. Many people keep the card instead, in a secure records spot, since the code can help when ordering a matching key later.
What if I already threw out the packaging?
If the packaging from a new lock is already gone, the lock still works and its keys can still be copied from a good spare. What you lose is the easy record of the model and any code card. Set a good spare key aside, and note or photograph the outside of the lock for your records.
Should a property manager keep packaging for each unit's lock?
A property manager can recycle each unit's lock box and keep only the identifying sheet, any code card, and the leftover parts. Label each file by unit or door rather than by tenant, so it stays accurate when people move. When a unit's lock is replaced or rekeyed, swap out the old sheet and card so the file matches what is actually on the door.
Can I photograph the instruction sheet instead of keeping it?
Photographing a lock's instruction sheet is fine, since it shows the model and steps rather than anything that grants access. Code cards are different. A photo of a key code or smart lock setup code can end up in cloud backups or shared albums, so keep that card on paper in a secure spot instead of in your camera roll.