Packing Tips: Home Office/Den

Your home office will likely contain your important paperwork and legal papers. Set these aside beforehand and plan to take them with you. Computer equipment and other valuables that exceed $100 per pound will need to be listed on your "High Value Inventory" form to receive proper valuation coverage.

Home Computer

Back up all files on a floppy disc, CD or tape and take with you.

Home Copier

If your home copier is larger than desk size, it must be serviced by a professional before transport.

• Remove the paper tray and cartridge.
• Secure the document cover, exit tray and alternate paper tray before packing.
• If your unit comes with shipping pins, which keep the internal parts in place during transit, they should be removed from the storage location on the document cover and placed according to directions in the owner's manual.

Home Printer

The toner and laser cartridges of any laser printer should be removed. Dispose of them safely and get new ones at your destination. On other types of printers, the print head should be secured by a professional, with preparation depending on the model.

Books

Pack books of the same general size together, in small book cartons.

• Pack them either flat, or with the spine touching the bottom of the carton. Do not pack with spine facing upward, as glue can break away from the binder.
• Expensively bound volumes of those of sentimental value should be individually wrapped before packing.

Office Furniture

Any modular office furniture will need to be dismantled prior to move day. Use tape to mark where pieces go together and keep the hardware together (including drawer pulls) in one spot, like a plastic bag or coffee can.