How to pack a PC and a COOLING SYSTEM

pc cooling systems

There are 2 main types of PC cooling systems. These are:

Air cooling

Air cooling relies on heatsinks made of metal (often aluminum or copper) that draw heat away from the CPU or GPU. Fans then push air over the heatsinks and through the case, expelling hot air while bringing in cool air. When packing a PC that uses Air cooling, you should:

• Secure the heatsink: Large tower coolers can shift and damage the motherboard. If possible, remove the cooler and pack it separately, labeling it clearly. If left in place, ensure the system is tightly cushioned.
• Cushion internal components: Use specialized packing foam or air cushions inside the case to prevent movement of the GPU and cooler.

Liquid Cooling

Liquid cooling uses water (or coolant) to absorb heat from the CPU/GPU. In an All-in-One (AIO) cooler, liquid is pumped through tubes into a radiator where fans dissipate the heat. Custom loops expand this concept, allowing for multiple components (CPU, GPU, RAM) to be cooled with tubing, reservoirs, and radiators. To effectively pack Liquid cooling systems, you should:

• All-in-One (AIO): If mounted on the CPU, it's best to remove the radiator and pump block. Ship them separately with padding to avoid strain on the motherboard.
• Custom Loop: Shipping a PC with a filled custom loop is risky due to leaks. Ideally, drain the loop before shipping. Label tubes and components for easier reassembly.
• Protect fittings: Wrap fittings and tubing with padding to prevent cracks or loosening.

If this doesn't happen, the coolant could leak all over the PC Case and the box, which could damage the box and or other components contained within.

General tips for pc packing

Either:

• Remove all small parts from the PC (GPU, CPU, Fans) and wrap them separately using Anti-Static bubble wrap. Then, you can leave the components inside the PC casing, or box separately
• Pack the PC very tightly with Anti-Static bubble wrap, to ensure that no components get damaged or destroyed during transport

This should ensure that PC components get to the destination undamaged. Other tips include:

• Clearly labeling any fragile parts of the PC, especially if the pieces are being packed separately. If being packed together, label the whole box as fragile.
• Ensure cushioning at the edges of the Box for the PC. This should help the PC Case to avoid damage during transport.
• Avoid using excessively large packing. The packaging should be large enough so that all components fit in, but not large enough that the components are able to move around
• Putting protection over port covers. This can help to avoid damage or dust entering the motherboard - which can be vitally important for components such as the motherboard. This protection could be plastic port covers, or tape.
• Reinforce the tape on the box in order to make sure the box doesn't open in transport
• Separate heavy and fragile components.
• If distinct cables are being sent, especially if multiple items are being sent, keep the cable attached to the component / electronic they are being sent with.