Almost everything we do today is tech-driven. Computers and electronics play a significant role in our lives, whether at home or at the office. Electronic devices represent some of our most expensive and treasured items, and we should take special care to protect them, especially when moving. There are some best practices when it comes to how to pack a computer and electronic for moving.
These devices include laptops, Pcs, tablets, printers, cartridges, TVs, DVDs, CDs, VCRs, keyboards, remote controls, Blu-rays, speakers, video games, and consoles. Packing electronics and computers for moving can be seamless. Here are some crucial tips to guide you to avoid any damage or loss when you pack a computer and electronics for moving.
Packing Tools You Will Need
- Packing boxes
- Wrapping Paper
- Packing Tape
- Cardboard
- Scissors
- Markers
- Colored Stickers
- Plastic Storage Bags
- Cushions or blankets
Where to Start
Keeping a range of cables, accessories, and other electronic parts together can be a challenge. Start by grouping items according to size and how you plan to pack them.
Unplug all cables. Remove any batteries from all equipment to reduce any chances of overheating during travel. Keep these items one location to assemble them later without hassle. It is important to keep in mind that lithium batteries are not allowed on your move because they are fire hazardous.
Disconnect any Blu-ray, DVDs, or CDs from your electronic devices. Use packing tape to keep any portals or print heads shut while moving. Make a list of the equipment and accessories so you can keep track of them during set up at the destination.
Printers
Remove toner cartridges from printers and wrap them in plastic to minimize dust or liquid damage. Stack them from heavy to light, and keep the wires, cables, and other accessories together.
Wrap each item in wrapping paper. You can place the cables atop or to the side of the equipment as you wrap.
Packing Computer Monitors
Place rolls of packing paper to the bottom of the moving box. Wrap the monitor in wrapping paper or bubble wrap. Place the equipment in a side-standing position inside. Fill in any empty spaces to help protect sensitive parts when moving.
Computers
Office and home computers store highly sensitive information. Keep your data safe by backing it up to your cloud or rigid drive systems before the move.
Secure your passwords in the unlikely event your equipment becomes lost or stolen when moving. If you’re able, remove the card of your Pcs motherboard to help keep it safe. If possible, it is recommended to move your laptop or computer yourself in your own vehicle due to the high value of both the device and its contents.
Clean your PC to ensure it is free of dust particles that can shift and clog your system during moving.
Disconnect any cables, dongles, and other accessories from your system before placing it in the moving box. Roll each wire and secure it with a band or twist tie. Place the cables in a storage bag for safe-keeping. You can also tape each cable to the device in the same package.
Wrap the PC in packing paper and place everything together in the box.
Additional Electronics Moving Tips
Avoid using Styrofoam packing chips around your computer. Some experts suggest the chips may allow static to form that can damage your equipment.
Do not use newsprint to wrap your monitor screens. The print may cause scratches that may be hard to remove. It is better to use non-static padding or non-printed packing paper.
After packing each box, place a cushion, folded blanket, or balled-up packing paper atop the equipment to provide another buffer layer when in-transit. Close the lids, seal, and label the box, including any handling instructions. This is key when you pack a computer and electronics.
Moving Flat Screen TVs
It’s best to re-pack flat-screen TVs in the original box, if possible. The styrophon modeling will secure the TV in the box so it doesn’t move or slide. It will also protect from some impact it will take while moving.
Your second alternative is to purchase a TV box from your mover. These boxes are specially designed for TVs and will provide similar protection to your TV as the original box.
Labeling
Labeling will help locate your items when you begin to unpack at your new worksite or home.
Label each box after sealing it to ensure you can quickly identify the items and where you plan to set them up.
It’s a good idea to color-code each item and all accompanying parts or accessories to organize them and minimize loss or displacement.
Place color-coded markers or stickers on each piece of equipment and its other parts and group them. Use stickers to mark the tips of cables to help you remember which device they will fit.
Attach color-coded marks on the sockets for each device and cables to help re-attach them easily.
Setting Up At Your New Place
Re-connecting electronics and computer equipment can be tricky. Always refer to your manuals to ensure you understand how to set up at your new location.
Unpack one packing box at a time, beginning with the more oversized items like your PC or television.
Remove the cables and accessories for each item. Set the equipment in place, and connect the cables to the power supply. Refer to the color marker or stickers to guide you when re-assembling parts.
Afterwards, run the system to ensure it’s working correctly. After you’re satisfied, move on to the next packing box. Repeat the setup steps until you complete the process.
Finishing Touches
Many people rely heavily on technology to drive their day-to-day activities at home and work. Therefore, computer and electronic equipment constitute a considerable investment that requires protection when moving from one location to the next.
Securing your valuable equipment is easy if you plan to organize the assembling, packing, and re-assembling of each item. These activities will help keep parts and accessories together and ensure your entire relocation process goes off without a hitch. These methods can be extremely affective when you have to pack a computer and electronics. If you are looking to have professionals pack your computer and electronics, click here for a free quote today.