Why Your Network Equipment Reseller’s Packing Practices Matter to You

So you have done all of your research.  You determined the exact Cisco Switch that you need and you found a Network Equipment Reseller who has the unit at a great price!  Before you order the Refurbished Switch, you went through the 5 Benefits of buying refurbished hardware from a trusted reseller, and determined that the used Cisco ealer you have chosen is legitimate.  You place your order and  pay extra for overnight shipping, because you needed this thing like yesterday.  When the FedEx driver arrives, and hands you what looks more like a pancake than a box, you are horrified!

Of course the Cisco Switch that was inside is damaged and now you have to get another one!  Believe me, I know how frustrating it is!

I know what you’re thinking… how could this happen?  I did soo much research!  I followed all of the tips!

Here is the thing.. YOU did everything RIGHT!  The unfortunate truth is that there are a number of network Equipment dealers who do not know how to properly pack equipment.   Obviously, this is a major problem.  Proper packaging is the last defense a Reseller has against any damage that can occur once a unit leaves their facility.

Most customers do not even think to ask about packaging procedures.   Until something like this happens to them.  In all reality, asking a used network equipment dealer how they package equipment is just as important as asking about testing and refurbishing procedures.   An Equipment Reseller can put their equipment through the most stringent testing procedures and refurbished each unit to like new condition, but, if they do not package it properly, the unit will get damaged in shipping and all of that work will be for nothing.

Here at DNI we know that networking Equipment, be it a new Cisco switch or a used Cisco router, is very delicate and must be handled with the utmost care.   This is why we have developed our Equipment Packing Best Practices, which we follow for every single unit that leaves our facility.

DNI’s Equipment Packing Best Practices

Anti-Static EVERYTHING 
All Equipment is to be packaged with Anti-static materials (bags, bubble wrap, and boxes)  Here is an insider tip:  Anti-static bubble wrap and foam are often pink.

Padding is Key 
Each individual piece of equipment should be completely surrounded by 3-5 inches of bubble wrap or foam.  In the case of blade units, anti-static foam padded boxes are used and then surrounded by bubble wrap on all sides.

 
Proper Sized Box
It is important to use the proper sized box for each piece of equipment.  When the right size box is used with the right amount of padding, nothing in the box should move.

Don’t Over Pack