How to Pack a Computer

I cannot tell you how many computers we see sloppily thrown in boxes or left out to be exposed to the elements, which in Arizona are quite harsh. I do not think this is laziness – I think people just do not know how to pack a computer. Here is our step-by-step guide to packing your computer that I think will make your life a little easier.

Here are some basic steps you can follow to make sure your computer is packed well:

1. The most important thing you should do first is back everything up. Use USBs or CDs, but make sure you do this before you pack everything.

2. Get the right materials.You will need a box that is very sturdy and larger than your computer so you can completely close it.

3. Packing materials like paper and peanuts, as well as bubble wrap, masking tape, Ziploc bags and labels.

4. Make sure your box is secure on the bottom. The last thing you need is your computer falling out and ruining your hard drive.

5. Shut down your computer but first make sure you have ejected any CDs and/or DVDS. These can cause damage if they are left inside.

6. Clear a large space to work so you can stay organized and not leave anything out.

7. Unplug your computer and get to work removing all cords and plugs. If the plugs are not labeled by color, write on a piece of masking tape and fold it over on the cord so you know where to plug it back in.

8. Wrap all cables together and place in large Ziploc bags i.e. the mouse should be with the mouse cord, keep printer cables together, etc.

9. Line your box with bubble wrap, packing paper and rolled up packing paper making little ‘burritos.’ These will keep your computer from jarring around as it is moved.

10. Wrap the computer tower or CPU completely in packing paper, bubble wrap or both and place securely in the box.

11. Wrap the monitor in bubble wrap or a sheet and then bubble wrap to prevent the monitor from scratching, then place this in the box, or in its own box if it is too large to fit.

12. Wrap the keyboard, mouse, other accessories and cables and place these in the box as well.

13. Take care not to let anything rest or settle on the monitor as this can damage it.

14. Fill the box to the top with the rest of the packaging materials and securely seal it off.

15. Be sure to label the box ‘This Side Up’ or ‘Fragile’ so extra care is taken in the moving process.

16. Especially in Arizona, make sure this box is stored somewhere with climate control to keep the parts from frying.