Send computer: choose the right carton and the inner packaging

A stable carton alone does not protect a computer sufficiently. Weight, sensitive components and interior padding jointly determine which packaging is needed. An existing manufacturer packaging with suitable mold pads is often the best starting point if it is complete and undamaged.

From the device to the required internal dimension

Measure the computer including protruding parts. Then plan the padding on all sides. The required inner carton size results from the device and actually used upholstery. A flat distance is not suitable for every computer. Too much unused space allows the device to wander; too little space prevents the upholstery from working effectively.

For heavy desktop PCs, the weight shall not be on sensitive connections, glass surfaces or housing projections. Monitors require a separate packaging that prevents printing on the display. Bundle accessories and cables separately so that they do not scratch surfaces.

Which carton is suitable?

Corrugated board is available in different wave types, layer numbers and strength qualities. Five- or seven-layer designs must be assessed on the basis of their actual material quality; a layer number alone is not a guaranteed load. Choose a carton suitable for the total weight with undamaged edges and a reliably lockable bottom.

In the case of re-used cartons, softened areas, crushed surfaces or torn edges are grounds for exclusion. A decorative gift box is not an automatically suitable computer shipping package.

Secure electronics and components

• Shut down the device and remove all external cables.
• Secure important data before shipping and observe instructions from the device manufacturer.
• Fix loose accessories in separate inner packaging.
• Expressly suitable for sensitive electronic components ESDUse packaging. The color of a foil is not a proof.
• To secure or expand heavy internal components only according to the manufacturer’s specifications; in case of doubt, to attract a specialist.

Check packaging before shipment

Fix the computer so that no hard parts are directly attached to the outside wall. A careful motion test shows whether loose parts are present, but does not replace a transport test. Close the bottom and lid with suitable packing tape. Photos of the device, interior padding and closed packaging document the condition before handing over.

Check weight, external dimensions, acceptance conditions and liability limits at the selected German shipping service. Labels such as “fragile” complement packaging, but do not guarantee any special treatment. A specialized transport solution can be useful for particularly valuable or heavy equipment.