1. ESD (Electrostatic Discharge), a familiar form of Electrostatic Discharge, often called "static electricity", is the shock we receive after walking across a carpet. In a technical environment, ESD can be very costly by harming devices or components. ESD may cause a catastrophic failure that appears immediately or a latent failure in which gradual degradation occurs during use, resulting in eventual failure.
2. Before moving a computer, hard drive or other component, discharge personal static build up by touching a grounded metal object, such as a plugged-in computer chassis.
3. Handle a hard disk drive as you would handle an egg. Handle failed hard disk drives with the same care as new drives.

Use the original shipping materials, if you still have them. If not, they are relatively easy to replicate:

1. Wrap media in an anti-static bag or similar material to prevent ESD.
2. Use a box that is at least twice the size of the media so that the media can be suspended in the middle of the box. We recommend a minimum of two inches of insulation all around for a 750g drive.
3. Pack securely with foam, bubble wrap, or newspaper so the media will not move from the middle of the box. Avoid using peanuts as contents will settle to the bottom of the box.
4. If sending a computer, laptop or notebook, use great care to ensure proper cushioning and protection. We recommend at least 15 cm for insulation. The heavier the unit, the more insulation required.

Make sure it is clearly labeled as FRAGILE and don't forget to include the completed and signed data recovery request form.

[Maxtor's Drive Handling Brochure (598KB PDF)]