Moving to a new home can be hard on your possessions, and the process of packing up, transporting, and unloading your home's computers can result in expensive damage or loss of data if you don't take the proper precautions. That's why you should know how to properly package a desktop system, including accessories, so it survives the move without suffering harm. Below is more information on this important task and how you can confidently pack your desktop computer:
What you will need to successfully pack your desktop computer
cartons for CPU tower, monitor, and accessories
packing tape
scissors or utility knife
measuring tape
newspaper or blank sheets of newsprint
roll of bubble wrap
flat sheet of corrugated cardboard
digital camera
cable ties
Step-by-step procedure for packing a desktop computer system
1. Take photographs of desktop system before disassembly. While it's not strictly necessary, especially if you have manuals readily available, it is a good idea to take a few quick snapshots of your desktop system when it is still set up. This will serve as a valuable reference for you when it comes time to reassemble the various components at your new home, and it will prevent frustration by quickly showing you how everything fits together. Take a couple photos of the cable positions where they are plugged into the various components; be sure to use good room lighting or turn on your camera's flash setting to keep everything visible in the images.
2. Prepare the computer for shutdown. Once you have taken a few photos of the computer setup, you will need to prepare the computer for its move. First, back up data files to external media, such as DVD-ROM discs or an external hard drive, or set up a cloud account where you can upload your data. Next, check any media drives for discs and remove any that might still be inside. Place a strip of packing tape across closed drive doors to immobilize them and prevent them from opening and being damaged during handling. Once you are satisfied the computer is ready to be shut down for the move, go ahead and do so.
3. Disassemble the computer components. After the computer has been shut down safely, begin to disconnect the cables from the CPU and monitor as well as those leading to peripherals such as keyboards and printers. After you have removed the cables, individually coil them and use cable ties to fasten them together.
In addition to disconnecting cables, be sure to remove any plugged-in devices such as USB drives, Wi-Fi receiver dongles, and other small objects that might be broken or cause damage to the ports should they be bumped. Place these devices together for packaging in step 7.
4. Protect the CPU. Unroll a length of 24-inch wide bubble wrap and lay it flat on your work surface, but don't cut the wrap just yet. Next, carefully lay the CPU on top of the bubble wrap so it rests entirely on the wrap. Fold the loose end of the bubble wrap up to the CPU and tape this end to the CPU with packing tape. Following that, begin to unroll more bubble wrap and wrap it around the CPU two to three times to cover its sides. Next, cut the wrap at this point and tape the end of the wrap to the underlying layer. Rotate the CPU 90-degrees and unroll a couple of feet of bubble wrap. Next, make two-to-three wraps around the CPU with the bubble wrap and finish it off by taping down the loose end.
5. Pack the CPU. After the CPU has been wrapped several times and is secure, add crumpled newspapers or newsprint to the carton to form a soft base of support. Next, lay the CPU inside the box so it rests on the crumpled paper. Fill in the gaps and voids surrounding the CPU with more paper balls, and don't forget to add paper to the top of the CPU to prevent shifting inside the box. Close the box flaps, tape them shut with packing tape, and label the box contents and where they should go inside your new home.
6. Pack the monitor. Once the CPU has been packed, you should focus your efforts on the monitor. Begin by measuring the monitor's length and width and cut out a rectangular cardboard shape in the same size. Next, place the cardboard over the monitor screen and tape it in position with multiple pieces of tape. This will protect the screen from being gouged or scratched.
After covering the screen, wrap two-to-three layers of bubble wrap around the entire monitor to cover the screen and stand, if applicable. Tape the bubble wrap to itself once you have wrapped the monitor. Find an appropriately sized carton and cover the bottom of the box with crumpled paper; carefully lay the monitor inside the box and fill in the spaces with more paper. Finally, seal up the box and label it as you did the CPU box in step 5.
7. Pack all cables, accessories and peripherals. The last step is to wrap all system accessories and peripherals in bubble wrap and seal them with packing tape. Place the accessories and cables you coiled in step 3 together in a box and fill in the empty space with crumpled paper. If you have a lot of accessory items, you may need to use more than one box. Tape the box(es) shut and label as appropriate.
If you are looking for professional movers to assist you in your relocation, contact a company like Bell Moving & Storage.
Share13 May 2016
When you have kids, the task of moving takes on a whole new challenge. It doesn't matter if your kids are three months old or thirteen years old, having them to consider as you plan the move, pack up your things, transport it to the new place and begin unloading and rebuliding your home takes careful planning. Our blog is all about moving with kids. You will learn some things that can help you get your kids through the transition with as little stress as possible and advice for allowing the capable children help you get all of the work done.