The original carton and packing materials are always best for safeguarding any type of computer or home electronics equipment.

        However, if you're like most people and have long since thrown away the original packaging, you can wrap components (e.g. receiver, compact disc player, videocassette recorder) separately inside clean plastic garbage bags to protect them against dust and dirt, and then pad them with newsprint or bubble-wrap. For turntables, secure the tone  arm, remove the needle and tighten the turntable screws. Carefully pack the item in a sturdy carton that has been lined with newsprint or styrofoam "peanuts". Securely seal the carton. and mark the outside of the box to indicate that the item inside is "Extremely Fragile".

        Your home computer represents an investment in time and money. With careful pre-planning and proper packing, your computer can be safely transported when you move.

        Back up your software and data files. How many backup copies and the method of protecting and guaranteeing the backup depend on what value you put on the work that you have generated. Depending on the value you may want to store a verified backup in a safety deposit box until your computer is up and running after the move, or maybe one disk in your pocket is enough. Remember, we are not liable for the loss of any data stored on your computer.

        On some older computers you may have to "Park The Heads" using the software provided by the manufacturer.

        Before the Move: If you do not have an exact record of the cost of your computer (including accessories), you might want to obtain a current retail cost of your complete system prior to selecting a transit protection plan from us. If you desire replacement cost (rather than depreciated) protection, we offer full value against loss or damage.

        Packing:

        Your moving company is best qualified to properly pack your home computer. If you choose to pack it yourself, use the original cartons and packing material when possible. If you have discarded them, choose a sturdy box large enough to permit you to surround the computer with packing material (crumpled unprinted newsprint, Styrofoam "peanuts," and plastic bubble pack are best).

        The central processing unit (CPU) - which houses the motherboard and disk drive - should be handled with care. This unit is especially sensitive to jarring. Again, use a box large enough to accommodate the CPU and plenty of packing material on all sides.

        The floppy disks that contain your programming and stored data preferably should be moved with you. Warping could occur with the extreme temperatures that can build up inside a moving van. As a precaution, you might want to duplicate all of your stored material onto backup disks and place them in a different box or take them with you.

        Depending on the type of printer you have, remove the toner and any ink cartridges, and carry the cartridges with you if your move occurs during hot weather. For other types of printers, the printer head should be secured (preferably with the original cardboard or plastic parts) to prevent it from shifting. Refer to your owner's manual for preparations specific to your printer model.

        The remainder of your computer (the keyboard and display screen) consists of solid-state circuitry, much like that in a television set. Place crumpled unprinted newsprint in the bottom of a box and pack as you would the other components.

        After Delivery:

        Allow the computer to adjust to room temperature before using it. If it has been particularly cold, watch for condensation, as moisture also can cause damage.