Follow these steps and it will be much easier to pack and unpack your desktop computer during the move.
1. Take a Picture
Before you begin to take apart the many cables which are on your computer, take a picture of them. This will make it easier to put each of the cables back where they need to go.
2. Back Up Vital Information
In the unlikely case that your computer gets very damaged or lost during the move, you will want to have any vital information backed up. Remember that this external memory should not be packed with the computer!
3. Disconnect Everything
Disconnect any devices, USB sticks, and cables. All cables should be tied (with twist ties or plastic ties) and put into plastic zip-lock bags.
4. Get the Right Boxes
Hopefully you still have the original box for your computer as this is the best box for packing it. If not, don’t fret. You will need to find or buy a very sturdy box which is slightly larger than the computer. This is so you can have room for cushioning on the bottom, sides, and top. You might need separate boxes for the CPU, monitor, and any peripheral devices like printers.
5. Cushion the Bottom
Before you put the computer in the box, add a layer of cushioning. Some wadded-up newspaper should do the trick.
6. Packing the Computer
The most important thing to remember when packing the computer in the box is that there should be no wiggle room. Fill any empty space with packing peanuts or wadded-up newspaper. Then add more cushioning to the top of the box before closing it and sealing it with packing tape.
7. Vertical or Horizontal?
Your computer tower or desktop units need to be packed so its motherboard is lying flat on the bottom of the box. You will need to consult your manual if you don’t know where the motherboard is located in the computer. If the motherboard is upwards, its parts might loosen. This can be fixed, but is often costly and an annoyance.
8. Create “Walls” within the Box
If you are packing peripheral items (like your keyboard and printer) in the same box as your computer, you might want to create “walls” inside the box out of pieces of cardboard. These walls will allow you to pack each item separately so they don’t bang into each other. Remember that each item needs its own cushioning.