How to Pack a Computer for Shipping

Pack your computer system in its original box and packing material if possible. If you no longer have the packaging, these instructions should help.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Packaging Materials
• Packaging Tape
• Packing Peanuts

1. Use a heavy corrugated cardboard box with extra space for protective material.
2. Make sure the weight capacity of the box, usually printed on the bottom, exceeds your computer and accessories.
3. Remove, cover or cross out old shipping labels from the outside of the box.
4. Wrap computer in bubble wrap or other cushioning material, covering all sides. Seal with tape.
5. Wrap mouse, keyboard and other accessories separately.
6. Fill open space in box with bubble wrap, polystyrene "peanuts" or "noodles," crumpled newspaper or other cushioning material.
7. Make sure the computer can't move inside the box.
8. Put a duplicate shipping label with your telephone number inside box.
9. Seal box with pressure-sensitive reinforced tape, water-activated paper tape or other strong packaging tape.
10. Cover seams with extra tape.
11. Mark complete return and delivery addresses on a single label.
12. Mark "FRAGILE" on all sides of the box.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not use masking tape, cellophane tape or string to seal the box.
• If you are returning a computer purchased from a mail-order manufacturer, you are usually required to return the original box and packaging materials in good condition.