Computer transportation is a task that should be approached with the utmost care. Unlike ordinary items, computer equipment is vulnerable to impacts, vibrations, temperature, and humidity changes. Incorrect packaging or careless loading can lead to damage to expensive components, loss of data, or malfunction of the device. It is especially important to consider the nuances when transporting over long distances — for example, when moving between cities or states.
Even a short move within the city requires competent logistics. If you are looking for reliable services of moving and storage in Boston, you should take care in advance of choosing professionals who know how to work with delicate equipment and guarantee its safety.
What Computer Parts Are Best to Disconnect When Transporting It
Wherever you plan to transport your computer, to another city, country, or to a neighboring area, it is much safer to dissemble it, at least partially.
Of those parts that must be dismantled, we can name the processor cooler and video card (the hard drive, RAM and other components can be left), since they can damage the motherboard during transportation. If we talk about the monitor, then its stand is also better to transport separately.
Video Card
To remove the video card, you need to remove the power cables (the right edge of the video card). This is done by pressing the latch-lock (near the connector), after which you need to pull the wire towards you.
After that, unscrew the two screws with which it is attached to the case. Next, press the latch on the right side of the connector in which the video card is fixed. The part will move out of its socket a little, and you will just need to take it out.
Cooling System
The massive radiator and two fans should be removed during the transportation of computer equipment in order to preserve the fasteners and the motherboard. First, you need to disconnect the power cable connecting the cooler to the motherboard. To do this, gently pull it towards you.
To remove the cooler, you need to unscrew four screws and turn the brackets in the direction of the arrow. Then pull a little and the part will easily come off, remaining in your hand.
Monitor Stand
As a rule, this part of the device has an irregular shape, so it is better to transport it disconnected from the monitor, wrapped in film, and lined with soft material or rags. If you plan to pack the stand in the same container with the monitor itself, then make sure that no protruding parts can damage the screen.
But, to avoid any carelessness and keep the screen intact, it is better to transport the monitor stand either separately or in a box with other peripheral devices (keyboard, wires, mouse, etc.).
How and in What Way to Pack a Computer for Transportation?
Before transporting a computer, it needs to be prepared and packed. The most reliable and safe packaging for a computer, as well as any other equipment, is its original box. Unfortunately, not everyone has experience in moving, and in most cases, the factory packaging does not last long. Therefore, the following packaging options for transportation remain:
- Buy cardboard boxes of a suitable size;
- Pack with improvised materials (bubble wrap, plasterboard, tape, etc.).
- When packing a monitor, be sure to cover the screen with something thick — fabric or cardboard.
- It is better to wrap the keyboard, mouse, wires, and other small accessories in film (each separately) and put them in a separate container (box, bag, etc.).
How to Transport a Computer by Car or Train?
If you plan to transport your computer by car, think about where it is best to place it — in the trunk or in the passenger compartment. In the passenger compartment, the device will need to be secured to the seats, usually with belts or a regular rope. Having placed the boxes in the trunk, they also need to be tied.
It is better to transport the system unit vertically or on the right side, so then the cooling system and motherboard will not be damaged. If you do not have experience in transporting valuables, then it is best to have the computer transported by a reliable moving company. By the way, if you need to store your things, including equipment, during your move, then moving companies, in particular Paradise Moving & Storage, provide such services.
If you plan to travel by train, you can buy a special luggage space for the cargo. In this case, the equipment and all components will be placed in a special compartment. If this is not possible or you consider this measure unnecessary, take it with you and place it on the luggage rack.
Rules for Transporting a Computer by Plane
As you know, you can transport things on a plane as hand luggage or in the luggage compartment. There are no special rules or regulations for transporting personal computer equipment. If we are talking about a system unit, then its dimensions in most cases exceed the dimensions permitted by the airline. But it is better to take the monitor with you on board, if possible.
If both the system unit and the monitor are traveling in the luggage compartment, they should be well-packed, not only notifying the loaders that the cargo is fragile, but also indicating the top, bottom, and side of the screen. Otherwise, the equipment may be irreparably damaged.
Final Thoughts
Safe transportation of a computer is not only about packing and careful moving. It is a whole range of measures, including risk assessment, selection of the right materials, secure fixation in the car, and, if necessary, temporary storage in suitable conditions. Mistakes at any stage can result in the loss of not only the equipment but also important information.
Therefore, if you value your equipment and want to be sure of its safety, entrust this task to professionals. Paradise Moving & Storage is your reliable partner for moving and storage in Boston. They offer a full range of moving services for packing, transporting, and storing computer equipment and other electronics.
