U-Haul International has been dedicated to serving the needs of do-it-yourself movers since 1945. In response to a 1997 study conducted by USADATA.com/Scarborough Research Corporation which states at least one personal or home computer can be found in 49.6% of American households, the moving industry giant has prepared a host of helpful hints for the estimated 9 million American computer owners U-Haul believes will move to a new home this summer.
The best way to pack your personal computer is to use the original box and packing supplies. If that is not possible, U-Haul recommends the following tips to help keep your computer in top condition:
PLANNING:
Ideal packaging items for computer equipment are clear plastic bags, foam pads, bubble wrap and anti-static bags.
Packing peanuts should never be used to package a computer because they contain high amounts of static electricity which may damage computer components.
Before disconnecting any computer system, it is important to back up all data. If the hard drive is damaged during transportation, data could be lost. Lost or damaged data can be replaced if the system has been properly backed-up. Several methods are available, including copying all files to floppy disks, using a DAT drive and tape or using a CD recorder to copy the data onto a CD.
Before unplugging power cables, it is a good idea to label each cord and the port it plugs into with color-coded stickers, so the system can be easily assembled when it reaches its new home. * Contacting the computer manufacturer for additional instructions is recommended.
PACKING:
CABLES: All cables should be wrapped with twist-ties to keep them from becoming tangled.
INTERNAL COMPONENTS: If it is necessary to remove internal components of the hard drive (i.e.: memory, video cards, sound cards, internal modem, etc...), these items should not be packed in regular plastic bags, plastic wrap, paper products or bubble wrap. They must be wrapped separately in anti-static bags. Once the component is in its protective, anti-static bag it should be surrounded by absorbent material such as bubble wrap, foam pads or cardboard placements to protect the item and keep it in the center of its box.
HARD DRIVE: The hard drive should also be placed in the center of a large box using foam pads or styrofoam to protect it and hold it in place.
KEYBOARD: The keyboard should be boxed alone, wrapped in plastic with a keyboard cover or a piece of foam placed over the keys for protection.
MONITOR: When preparing the monitor for a move, first place it in a plastic bag to protect the screen. For optimum protection, a box that is much larger than the monitor is needed. Line the bottom of the box with bubble wrap or foam pads. After positioning the monitor inside the box, use bubble wrap, foam pads or formed styrofoam on each side of the monitor making sure it sits securely in the center of the box.
PERIPHERALS: External CD Rom drives and modems should be packaged alone by first wrapping the unit in a plastic bag, then placing it in the center of a box, using foam or bubble wrap for support and protection.
MOUSE: To protect the mouse and prevent foreign materials from getting inside the track ball, loop the cable in a long figure-eight, put a twist-tie around it and place the mouse and cable in a plastic bag.
PRINTER: Before packing a printer, remove trays, arms and paper and place each item in its own bag. The printer can then be put in a bag and secured in the center of its box surrounded with foam or styrofoam, keeping pressure off of all fragile parts.
DISKS AND CDs: Disks and CDs should be stored in disk- or CD-storage containers.
PACK TOGETHER: The following items can be wrapped individually and conveniently packed together in a box: mouse, cords, power strips, small speakers, CD cases, mouse pads, wrist pads, and desktop items.
TRANSPORTING: Computer equipment and all electronics should be placed in the Mom’s Attic(sm) area over the cab of the U-Haul moving van. This area of the truck is designed to provide the smoothest, gentlest ride.
Even if you plan on hiring a professional mover, you can make sure these tips are followed to ensure a safe, easy arrival and reboot.
Published: July 6, 1998
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