1. Backup

Protect your financial records, family photos, music collections, and the countless other files on your computer by making a full backup of your computer's data before your move. In the unlikely event that your hardware is damaged or lost during the move, you can restore your files to a new computer.

Preparing your computer for a move and backing up data should motivate you to organize your files and clear up disk space. Go through your document folders to make sure files are correctly named and in appropriately labeled folders. Delete any files you no longer need. Run your computer's disk clean-up utility to clear up drive space. Finally, backup all your files, including:

• Documents, spreadsheets, and presentations
• Pictures
• Music files
• System settings, like favorite websites
• Emails
• Financial records
• Saved passwords

2. Disassemble

Once you've done a complete backup of your data, carefully disassemble and pack your computer.  First power down your computer, monitor, and any peripherals and disconnect them from their power source. If you are unfamiliar with the connections on your computer, label each cable before disconnecting them. Place all cords in a plastic bag or box to keep with your computer.

3. Pack

The best option for packing your computer is to use the original packaging. If this is not possible, pack your computer tower or desktop unit upright or on its side with the motherboard down. Protect your computer from jostling by wrapping your computer in bubble wrap and filling empty space with padding.

Your monitor should receive equal care. If you have the original packaging—great. If not, make sure to protect the screen with padding and pack in an appropriately sized box.

Keyboards, mice, and cables should go in the same box as your computer if there is room. For multiple computers, make sure to pack each computer's peripherals in their respective boxes.

If you have a laptop, just put it in your regular laptop carrying case and take it with you in the car during your move.

Mark all boxes with computer equipment as "FRAGILE" along with the room in your new house they belong in.

4. Reassemble

When you reassemble your computer at your new home, try to exactly replicate the setup at your old home exactly. If you had no extra cables at your old house, you shouldn't have any extras when setting up your computer at your new home.