Safety is paramount when it comes to moving to a new place, and it starts with knowing how to pack your possessions. Fragile, delicate items should be wrapped in cushioning material to keep them stable during transport. These types of items include dishes, glasses, and surprisingly, your computer. Unlike dishes and glasses, computers aren’t easily replaceable, which is why you should pay special attention to how you’re packing them. If packing up your things is on your to-do list this year, here are four packing hacks to help protect your computer and accompanying equipment while moving to a new living space.
1. Use the Original Box
To pack your computer, you will need a sturdy cardboard box with thick walls and enough room for cushioning material. For this reason, the box your computer came in is ideal. If the original box isn’t available to you, find the next closest match. The box should be only slightly bigger than what you plan to put inside of it, and it should have enough room for cushioning on all sides. Avoid choosing a box that’s too large, which can cause items to shift and break while moving houses.
2. Wrap the Computer and Monitor Before Packing
Your monitor and PC tower are the most fragile components of the entire unit, so it’s best to treat them as if they were made of glass. Wrap these items in bubble wrap or blankets before placing them in the box. Then, fill in any leftover spaces with additional cushioning material, such as packing peanuts or crumpled-up newspaper. Remember to protect your monitor screen from scratches by shielding it with a softer material. If you have a laptop, make sure it’s in the closed position before wrapping.
3. Pack Computer and Monitor Separately
It may be tempting to consolidate all your computer equipment into one box, but packing multiple delicate items can increase the risk of damage. It also makes the box extremely heavy, which also increases the risk of damage if someone were to drop the box or if the box were to break. To ensure your computer arrives at your new home intact, pack the monitor and computer tower in their size-appropriate boxes.
4. Organize Cables Before Packing
Avoid throwing your cables and wires into the box as an afterthought. Instead, you should form them into neat coils by wrapping them around your fist and securing them with some masking tape or rubber bands. If you are packing a lot of electronics, a proper labeling system will ensure you know which cable belongs to each appliance. Use tape, bread bag twist-ties, or sandwich bags to label each cable to make it easier on yourself when it’s time to unpack.
Protect Your Investment
Computers and computer accessories are expensive yet vital elements of your personal and professional life. To ensure a smooth transition from your old home to your new one, make sure to pack all your electronic equipment with care to prevent damage, breakage, and malfunctioning during the move.