How to Ship Your Motherboard for Repair

The motherboard is one of the most fragile computer components.

If you buy a motherboard, don't toss the box. Motherboards, like other delicate PC components, must be packaged very carefully for shipping. Keeping the original packaging will pay off if you ever need to send that part out for repairs. If you don't have the original box, you can still ship a motherboard successfully by packing it in the right materials.

Things You'll Need

• Anti-static bag
• Packing tape
• Packing foam or bubble wrap
• Cardboard box

Instructions

1. Place the motherboard in an anti-static bag and seal it. These bags are the generally accepted standard for protecting sensitive computer components and will protect the motherboard from static electricity.

2. Pack the motherboard in a small cardboard box. If possible, place the component in the original packaging prior to packing. Surround the motherboard with packing foam or bubble wrap. Secure the packing material with tape.

   The board should fit snugly in the box and have no room to move around. Avoid using oversize boxes or packing material such as tissue paper that offers minimal protection.

3. Seal the box shut with packing tape. Mark the box contents as "fragile" prior to shipping. Because motherboards are expensive to replace, it is in your best interest to insure the package and use a carrier that provides tracking.

References

• University of Rochester: Demonstrating Electrostatic Shielding with Antistatic Bags