4 Tips for Packing Computer Equipment and Peripherals

Your computer and peripherals are sensitive pieces of equipment that are prone to damage during a move. If your computer is not packed away safely, and is dropped, the damage could be permanent. Following tips for packing computer equipment will help you get your sensitive device to its new home safely.

1. Protect Your Data

Before packing your computer, be sure to back up all the data on your computer’s hard drive including documents, photos, MP3 files, personal information, or anything you may have stored in the computer. This way, if the computer does get damaged you wont lose all your data in the process.

You have a few options for how you choose to back up your data.

1. External Hard Drive – An external hard drive is ideal for people who have a lot of data to transport.
2. Flash Drive – A flash drive is much smaller in size and storage capabilities then an external drive.
3. Data CDs or DVDs – If you do not have an external or flash drive, you can back up all of your data on to either a CD or DVD. Both are a cheaper options then purchasing an external hard drive, but several discs may be required for all of your data.

2. Use the Original Box

If you have the original box you purchased your computer or peripheral equipment in use that for your move. The boxes and padding are specially made to protect your equipment and the safest way to move your computer. If you have the original box but none of the packing material, you can still use the box. Be sure to line the inside of the box with packing peanuts, and wrap your computer in padding like bubble wrap before placing it inside the box.

3. Use a Sturdy Replacement Box

If you do not have the original computer equipment box, any solid box will do for moving. You want the box to be as small as possible to minimize the computer from bouncing around inside and becoming damaged. However, be sure to leave room for packing peanuts and other cushioning material.

4. Provide a Cushion for You Computer Equipment

Inevitably, your computer will move around some during transport. To minimize the risk of the computer being damaged inside the box, be sure to provide a cushion for the equipment. Before placing the computer in a box, wrap it completely in a padded material like bubble wrap and tape the sides closed around the computer. This will ensure the wrapping does not come loose in the move. For added safety, place a layer of packing peanuts on the bottom of the box before adding the computer. Then stuff the remaining crevices around the computer with packing peanuts. This will minimize moving and reduce shock.

If your computer is damaged during your move it may not be fixable. You could lose all of your data, and be forced to purchase new equipment. Following tips for packing your computer and peripherals will minimize any risk.