Computer Packing & Moving Tips

Published on 2023-03-08

Packing anything for a move requires some care and delicacy, but it’s especially important when packing electronics and computer equipment since they are fragile and can be easily damaged if not properly secured. In this post, we’ll provide some essentially tips for packing computers and electronics to make sure that everything arrives at your new home in tip-top condition.

Back Everything Up

Before you even start the packing process, it’s very important that you back up any files on your computer. The last thing you want to deal with after a move is finding out that you’ve lost important files, documents, or photos. If you have any work-related files saved on your computer, this goes double. An external drive can be a good way to back up files, or if your storage needs aren’t as robust, a couple thumb drives should do the trick.

Disconnect Everything

It goes without saying that you’ll want to disconnect any cords, peripherals, or other components before packing any computer related equipment. This includes cords connected to routers, modems, printers, and computers. Ideally, you want any electronics to be packed a stand-alone item without cords being crammed into the corners of boxes so that they don’t get damaged. Likewise, it’s best to pack things like computer towers and monitors on their own so that you can appropriately cushion them with packing materials to guard against them shifting in the box during a move to prevent damages.

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Keep Like Cables Together

Once you have disconnected everything, it’s very helpful to keep cables together that go to the same device. If you have a particularly complex setup, for example a gaming computer or multiple monitors, this is even more important, and you may want to take a photo of how things are set up and connected in case you need a reminder of what goes where. When storing cables for a move, you can keep them in separate bags and color code them with a sticker that corresponds to what they’re attached to so it’s easier to reassemble everything after moving.

Pack Securely

When packing computers, printers, monitors, external drives, routers, and modems, you’ll want to make sure they are securely packed with the appropriate packing materials to make sure they are firmly secured inside boxes. Ideally, you should use the original packing and foam inserts that came with any devices. If that’s not an option, packing materials like bubble wrap, packing paper or peanuts, or other types of space fillers to keep everything in place. Since computers have some heft to them, it’s best to double tape any boxes so that nothing falls through while being transported.

Other Concerns

Labeling boxes is also a good idea when it comes to electronics and computer equipment so that they aren’t flipped or set sideways in a manner that could cause damage. Clear labels such as “fragile” or “this end up” will help movers or whoever else is loading and unloading your belongings to keep things situated properly and prevent any mishaps. If you plan on getting insurance coverage for your electronics (which can be purchased through the moving company), be sure to get an accurate valuation of everything beforehand. If you’re unfamiliar with the different levels of coverage, this article covers the basics of what you’ll need to know.