Server memory is tougher than it looks, but shipping is where most avoidable damage happens. Modules that slide around a box can rub against each other, chip components or bend at the edges. The goal of good packing is simple: every module is protected from static, held in place, and cushioned from the box walls.
Step one: count your modules
The quantity decides the packing
Use a RAM tray
A purpose-made DIMM tray holds each module upright in its own slot. Trays are inexpensive and easy to buy on Amazon — search for “RAM tray” or “DIMM shipping tray.”
Use individual static bags
Put each module in its own antistatic bag, then pack the bags together tightly so they cannot shift inside the box.
Before you start: handle modules safely
- Discharge static first. Touch a grounded metal surface, such as a server chassis, before handling memory. Use an antistatic wrist strap if you have one.
- Hold modules by the edges. Avoid touching the gold contacts and the memory chips.
- Leave the labels alone. The manufacturer label carries the part number we use to identify and price your memory. Don’t remove it, cover it or write over it.
- Keep matching part numbers together. Grouping identical modules makes check-in faster and keeps your lot easy to verify against your quote.
Packing more than 20 modules in a RAM tray
- Buy a tray sized for your lot. RAM trays are available on Amazon. Choose one listed as antistatic or ESD-safe, and make sure it fits your module type — DDR4 and DDR5 server DIMMs have the same length but differently placed notches.
- Seat one module per slot. Press each module gently into its own slot. Don’t double up modules in a single slot.
- Close and secure the lid. Tape the tray closed so it cannot open in transit. If you are using several trays, stack them and tape them together into one block.
- Box the tray with padding on every side. Put the tray in a sturdy box with packing material underneath, on top and around the sides. The tray should not slide when you move the box.
A tray replaces the need for individual bags — the slots keep modules separated and upright. Empty slots are fine; just make sure the tray itself is held firmly in the box.
Packing 20 or fewer modules in static bags
- One module per bag. Place each module in its own antistatic bag. Don’t put two modules in the same bag, where they can rub against each other.
- Fold and close each bag. Fold the open end over and tape the bag — not the module — so it stays closed.
- Pack the bags together tightly. Lay the bagged modules flat or on edge in a neat stack and pack them snugly side by side, so they support each other and cannot move.
- Fill the empty space. Add packing material around the stack until the box is full. Tight packing is the whole point: nothing should slide or rattle.
Boxing, paperwork and the shake test
- Use a sturdy corrugated box with a little room on each side for padding. Padded envelopes are fine as extra protection inside the box, but don’t ship memory in a padded envelope on its own.
- Add a packing list. Include your name, email or phone number, your quote reference, and each part number with its quantity. It makes check-in quicker and helps us match the shipment to your offer.
- Do the shake test. Close the box and give it a gentle shake. If you hear or feel anything shift, open it and add more packing material.
- Tape all seams and attach the shipping label flat on the top of the box.
For accepted offers over $500, we email a prepaid shipping label. Carrier loss on our shipping label is paid at your quoted value.
What to avoid
- Loose modules dropped into a box, even with padding around them.
- Shipping in a padded envelope on its own, without an outer box.
- Ordinary household bubble wrap or plastic bags directly against the modules — use antistatic bags instead.
- Two or more modules in one bag, or rubber bands around bundles of modules.
- Tape stuck directly to modules or over their labels.
- Packing memory in the same box as heavy items, such as drives, power supplies or tools, that can crush it.
More than 20 modules: RAM tray. 20 or fewer: one module per static bag, packed tightly. Then fill the box so nothing moves.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I buy a RAM tray?
RAM trays are available on Amazon. Search for “RAM tray” or “DIMM shipping tray,” and choose one listed as antistatic or ESD-safe that fits your module type.
I have exactly 20 modules. Tray or bags?
Individual antistatic bags are fine for 20 or fewer. A tray is recommended once you have more than 20.
Do I need to put modules in bags if I’m using a tray?
No. A tray holds each module in its own slot, so individual bags aren’t needed. Just make sure the tray is antistatic or ESD-safe.
Can I use the factory packaging?
Yes. Factory packaging is fine. Pack it tightly in a sturdy box so nothing can shift.
Does Ocitech pay for shipping?
For accepted offers over $500, we email a prepaid shipping label. Request a quote to get started.
Still sorting your stock? Our RAM identification guide explains how to read module labels, and the RAM price list shows current offers for common parts. When you’re ready, request a server RAM quote.
This guide reflects Ocitech’s recommended packing process for sellers. Handling tips follow standard practice for electrostatic-sensitive components. If your lot is unusually large or mixed, contact us before shipping and we’ll advise on packing.
Harlan Moore is the founder of Ocitech and buys every lot personally from Tacoma, WA. He has more than 20 years of experience sourcing physical commodities and IT hardware at scale.