Packing and moving computers has always been a daunting task. Now that personal computers have become relatively small, it has become much easier and safer to ship them to new homes.
Immediately after you decide to move, begin backing up your documents and other files. You can use a built-in back-up program or you can simply transfer all files to compact discs, external hard drives, or other removable media. For added security, create two copies of the back-up. Store one in your car during the move and store another in a secure area such as a safe deposit box or a friend’s home.
Next, begin packing up your computer. Start by removing all CD-ROMS, DVD-ROMS, diskettes, and other portable memory components. Keep these in their sleeves or a specialty binder to prevent scratches and other data malfunctions. Next, shut down your computer according to the proper procedure. Turn off the monitor and any externally-powered devices. Unplug the computer cables from the surge protectors, and unplug the surge protectors from the wall outlets.
At this point, the cables connecting the computer to peripheral devices can be removed. If you are working on carpet or if it is a particularly dry day, ground your body by touching the metal chassis of the computer tower. This will prevent you from accidentally shocking a peripheral component with a charge of static electricity. Carefully remove each cable without pulling, rolling, crimping it, or applying excessive pressure. If it will not come loose, call a computer professional for advice on how to handle the situation.
As you remove each cable, label it and note where it was removed from using masking tape and a dark marker. Gently wrap each wire into a bundle and fasten it with a twist tie. Place the wires into a tightly sealed plastic bag and keep it near the other computer components to ensure a quick, easy set-up when you arrive at your new home.
When packing peripherals, first consider how fragile each component is in order to determine how to best pack it for a move. Cameras and scanners have delicate glass parts that must be handled with extreme care. Hard drives should not be shaken or otherwise disturbed as this could damage the internal parts. Printers, fax machines, and copiers pose an additional threat. Ink or toner cartridges can leak in transit and damage other nearby parts. Remove these cartridges and keep them sealed in tight plastic bags. If possible, package all ink and toner cartridges in one single box and wrap the box in plastic to contain any leakage.
To pack the tower and monitor, try to use the computer’s original box. This will fit the device perfectly and ensure that it cannot move, preventing damage. If you cannot locate this box, there are two other options. You can try to order a replacement box through your computer manufacturer, or you can simply find a box that will fit the tower or monitor and then carefully fill it with Styrofoam supports and other soft packing supplies. If packing in another box, be sure to fill each crack tightly with soft packing supplies so that the computer is well-cushioned. Before packing your monitor, first wrap it in a protective fabric cloth. Use bubble wrap for even more protection.
Once the box is packed, seal the top with packing tape. Reinforce the bottom of the box with extra layers of tape, and consider wrapping the box with plastic to prevent moisture from entering. Mark it as fragile and make sure that it is not place beneath other heavy, crushing boxes or furniture.
Keep important documents in your portfolio with you at all times. This includes bills, receipts, repair invoices, software documentation, and related paperwork. Also keep your non-essential software (including games and other applications that you use only occasionally) in a safe area during the relocation.
Once you arrive at your new home, decide where you would like to put your computer. Often times, the Internet service provider will need to drill holes in order to run essential cables, so select wisely to avoid drilling multiple times. If using a wireless router, consider the distance it will be from each room in your home. The signal may not reach the furthest corners, and these will become areas where your laptop won’t be able to access the World Wide Web through WiFi. |
