Moving is always an ordeal. Even the most low-impact moves take several hours on average, and that doesn’t factor in packing time and other prep. With everything else to consider during a move, the last thing you want to worry about is breaking things in transit.
Electronics are particularly susceptible to damage. Considering most of us rely on our computers for important tasks, it’s important to decrease the risk of damage whenever possible.
Luckily, there are some ways to ensure your computer’s safety. Keep reading to learn how to pack a computer for moving.
How to Pack a Computer for Moving
There are a few key steps in this process. We’ll cover each one in detail so you don’t accidentally miss something crucial.
Back Up Before You Pack Up
Backing up your data is imperative. No matter how thorough you are with your packing, there’s no way to guarantee your computer’s safety one hundred percent.
Losing your data can be much more than a simple inconvenience. These days, a lot of important information exists exclusively in digital form. That’s why you need to make sure to back up all of it before packing your computer.
Even if you’re not planning a move, backing up your data is something you should do periodically.
Use the Original Boxes
Though this is not always possible, if you have the original packaging for your computer, use it. It is your best option. The boxes your computer came in are specially designed to prevent damage during transportation, making them ideal for your move.
Even if it’s not an option this time around, make a mental note and set the boxes aside the next time you buy a computer or other new tech.
Get Proper Packing Supplies
If you can’t use the original boxes, you should do your best to recreate the same level of security. To do this, you need to get the right supplies.
Here’s what you need:
- A box twice the size of the computer
- Bubble wrap
- Packing paper
- Heavy-duty packing tape
- Labels
- Marker
The large box is to ensure that the computer remains as far away from the walls of the box as possible. This way it doesn’t sustain any damage if the box is dropped or bumps into anything.
- Place extra tape on the bottom seam of the box to assure that it is sturdy and will hold the computer.
- Wrap your computer, monitor, and keyboard separately in multiple layers of bubble wrap.
- Secure the bubble wrap with tape.
- Place crumpled packing paper on the bottom of the box to act as a cushion.
- Fill the rest of the space with crumpled packing paper until you can’t fit any more inside. You want these to be as tightly packed as possible.
Once you’re confident that you’ve adequately filled the space, it’s time to tape up the box. Don’t skimp on the tape. Get high-quality packing tape and double tape the openings.
Finally, mark the box as “fragile.” This will help if you’ve got friends, family, or professional movers assisting with the move.
One more important note: If you’re packing an older style desktop computer with separate parts like speakers, monitor, tower, etc., pack all the pieces individually. Putting them in their own boxes keeps them from banging into each other. Other than that, use the same technique described above.
You’re Ready to Move
Now that you know how to pack a computer for moving, you’re ready to go. As you can see, it’s not a difficult process. As long as you’re careful to follow all the steps, you shouldn’t have any issues.
Of course, the best way to keep your belongings safe is by having someone who really knows what they’re doing take care of it. If you’re interested in getting some professional help with your move, follow this link.