3 Steps For Moving Computers Or Gaming Systems

There are three important steps for moving computers or gaming systems that every gamer should keep in mind. Moving is an adventure and may even provide a fresh start, but failing to take precautions with sensitive gaming equipment can quickly turn this exciting time into a virtual nightmare.

Problems and Solutions

Moving is considered a hassle by many, causing disruption, provoking stress, and, if done haphazardly, it can even be dangerous. A poorly planned and executed move can be a disaster. Precious possessions may go missing, beloved keepsakes may break along the way, and expensive electronics can easily become damaged in transit.

But it doesn’t have to be that way. By thinking ahead, doing a little research, and making the plans necessary to safeguard one’s possessions, moving becomes a smooth process and everything arrives in one piece. Planning ahead can make all the difference in getting acclimated as soon as possible without stressing about the condition of the household goods and electronics.

Some of the most prized and expensive possessions people own are their electronics and gaming systems. Electronic devices play an integral and even central part in everyday life, both for work and for play. So, carefully considering the safest way to move these items is very important. The following are steps that will avoid costly mishaps when moving electronics and gaming consoles.

Three Simple and Easy Steps

There are three primary steps for moving computers or gaming systems safely. They include backing up irreplaceable data, dismantling, organizing, and packing gear and related components safely, and moving electronics with safety and great care in mind.

1. Backup All Irreplaceable Data: The first step for any move is to make sure that all personal data is safely backed up. In the off chance that something does go wrong despite one’s best efforts, this ensures that important data can always be retrieved. This is a step that should not be overlooked. While electronics can be replaced, chances are that the photos and other important data the equipment contains can’t be.

For personal computers, this means backing up data with thumb drives and external drives or non-rewritable media, such as discs. Cloud storage is also useful in this regard as it requires no physical device and can be accessed from any device connected to the internet. Cloud storage’s disadvantage is that it may require a subscription fee to maintain and access over time. Consider the best option for your individual data needs.

No matter how irreplaceable data is stored, it not only acts as insurance in case of the unexpected, but it also provides peace of mind. If using a storage device for backup, put this in a separate, safe space until the move is complete.

2. Dismantle, Organize, and Pack Gear and Components: Once backups have been made for all irreplaceable data, it’s time to start preparing the electronics for the move. The second of the three primary steps for moving computers or gaming systems is to dismantle, organize and pack up all gear and associated components. This ensures that equipment will not be lost or misplaced and minimizes the possibility of damage during the move.

Computers and gaming consoles vary in size and shape, but the most common computers used today are laptops and units consisting of a monitor and processor, usually in the form of a tower. Eject all media that these devices may contain, such as discs, and place them in their original containers. Remove all cables attached to these devices. Coil cables firmly (but not tightly) and tie them off before placing them in a plastic bag.

Perform the same tasks for gaming systems. It’s also a good idea to gather and bag any associated cables or peripheral items that came with the computer or gaming system for easier retrieval later. It’s also an excellent idea to label cables at this point, especially if manuals have been discarded. Labeling can be done easily with masking tape and a marker.

Once cables and peripherals have been removed from the devices and bagged, retrieve the original packaging in which the computer or game system came in, if you still have the box. The original packaging typically has spacers of either cardboard or Styrofoam that keep the electronics from moving around inside. If the original packaging is not available, choose a box that will allow room for filler or cushioning for further protection. It’s important to be sure that the devices won’t move around or scrape against one another while in transit.

After the boxes are taped up, secure, and their contents are firmly in place, use a marker to label any boxes for easy identification. It’s also important that boxes containing electronics such as computers or gaming systems are handled with care. To reduce chances of rough handling, mark which side of the box should face up and consider adding highly visible FRAGILE notifications on all sides of the box.

3. Move Electronics with Safety and Care: Now comes the final of the three steps for moving computers and gaming systems, moving the packaged devices. During this stage, as with all others, personal safety should be a primary concern. Some computer systems can be surprisingly heavy, especially older models. In these cases, get assistance when lifting the boxes to avoid dropping the components.

When packing the moving truck, make sure that heavy objects aren’t placed on top of boxes containing electronics. In addition, make sure that boxes are snuggly placed together so the boxes containing electronics will not shift, move, or become crushed during transit. Another thing to keep in mind is not to expose electronics to very cold or very hot conditions (consult a device’s documentation for precise temperatures). Be mindful of humid conditions as well.

By following these three easy steps, you should be able to find and set up your computer or gaming console with little effort and get back to the fun as quickly as possible!