Video:How to Pack a Computer

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Transcript:How to Pack a Computer

Hi, I'm Don Schechter for About.com Home and Garden. Today I'll show you how to pack your computer for a move.

Take Moving Precautions

When getting ready for a big move, you will want to protect your computer to ensure it doesn't get damaged on the way. Before you move, check with the moving company for insurance rates and back up your files either to DVDs or to a portable drive.

Choose Boxes for Different Computer Parts

To pack your computer, try to find the box it came in. If you can't locate it, you can always buy a heavy duty box from UPS or another mail store. Both your hard drive and monitor are fragile, so see if you can get a box for each. When you talk to the box company, give them the dimensions of your computer. Check to see if they have styrofoam inserts which will prevent the computer from moving around inside the box.

Prepare the Computer and Accessories

Before you shut down your computer, check the drives to make sure there are no discs in it. Once it's shut down, disconnect all of the cords including the main power cords and the cords for peripherals like a keyboard and mouse. If you're worried about which cords go where, feel free to label them with masking tape, but most newer computers adopted a color coded system of cords and plugs. Wind up the cords and place them in a storage container or plastic bag. Be sure to keep them with your computer.

Pack the Computer Tightly

For the hard drive and the monitor, place styrofoam inserts around it then place in a box. If you don't have styrafoam, use bubble wrap, or styrafoam peanuts all around the computer in the box. Make sure that it is packed tight so the computer doesn't move around. Seal the box with packing tape. Don't forget to label it.

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