How to pack a desktop computer?

How to Pack a Desktop Computer for Moving

Packing a desktop computer requires careful attention to protect its sensitive components during transit. Proper preparation and packaging help ensure the system arrives at its new location ready for reconnection.

Before You Pack: Essential Preparations

• Back Up Data: Always back up all critical data to an external hard drive or cloud service. This safeguards against data loss should any unforeseen issues occur during the move.
• Photograph Connections: Before disconnecting anything, take clear photos of the back of the computer, monitor, and peripherals. These images serve as a visual guide for reconnecting everything correctly later.
• Power Down and Unplug: Ensure the computer is completely shut down, not just in sleep mode. Unplug all cables from the back of the tower, monitor, and any peripherals from their respective power points.
• Organise Cables: Disconnect all cables – power, display, USB, Ethernet, audio, etc. Label each cable at both ends (e.g., "monitor power," "PC to monitor," "mouse") using sticky labels or tape. Twist ties or cable ties can then be used to bundle each cable separately, preventing tangles. Consider placing all cables for one computer setup into a single, clearly labelled resealable bag.

Packing Peripherals

Each component of the desktop setup requires individual protection.

• Keyboard and Mouse: Wrap these in bubble wrap or soft packing paper. Place them in a smaller, sturdy box or with other less fragile accessories.
• Speakers, Webcam, and Other Small Devices: Disconnect and wrap these individually. Group smaller items together in a box, using void fill to prevent movement.
• Monitors: The screen is the most vulnerable part. If the original box is available, use it. Otherwise, carefully clean the screen and cover it with a soft cloth or a layer of cling film before wrapping it securely in several layers of bubble wrap. Pay particular attention to protecting the corners. For larger screens, advice similar to how to move a large flat-screen TV without a box can be applied. Place the wrapped monitor upright in a sturdy box, filling any empty spaces with packing peanuts, scrunched paper, or foam inserts to prevent shifting.

Packing the PC Tower (The Main Unit)

The computer tower houses the most delicate internal components.

• Internal Components (Optional but Recommended for Long Journeys): For very long distances or rough transport, it can be beneficial to open the PC case and remove any large, heavy components such as graphics cards, which might otherwise stress their slots due to vibration. These should be wrapped in anti-static bags and then bubble wrap, packed securely in a separate, small box. If this is not feasible or preferred, ensure the PC is handled with extreme care.
• Secure Disc Drives: If the computer has a DVD or Blu-ray drive, ensure any discs are removed.
• Anti-Static Protection: Place the entire PC tower inside an anti-static bag, if available. This helps protect against static electricity discharge.
• Protective Wrapping: Wrap the PC tower generously with several layers of bubble wrap. Focus on cushioning all sides and corners.
• Boxing the Tower: The original box, complete with its custom foam inserts, is ideal. If not available, select a strong, double-walled cardboard box that is only slightly larger than the wrapped computer. Place the wrapped PC tower inside the box.
• Void Fill: Fill all remaining space in the box with packing peanuts, scrunched packing paper, or foam to prevent any movement during transit. The aim is for the computer to be snug and unable to shift.

Labelling and Final Checks

• Clear Labelling: Clearly label each box as "FRAGILE – Desktop Computer" or "FRAGILE – Monitor," indicating the contents. Mark "THIS WAY UP" with arrows to ensure correct orientation during handling.
• Identify for Unpacking: A label indicating "Electronics – First to Unpack" can be useful, especially when following an overall moving checklist. This helps locate essential items quickly upon arrival at the new property.
• Keep Together: It is often helpful to keep all components for one computer setup (tower, monitor, keyboard, mouse, cables) packed into adjacent boxes, or clearly labelled so they can be easily reunited.

During the Move

Ensure that boxes containing desktop computers and monitors are handled carefully, kept upright, and loaded into the removal lorry in a secure position where they will not shift or be crushed by heavier items. They should be among the last items loaded and first unloaded, ideally placed in a passenger vehicle if space allows and if the journey is short and secure.