Whenever you purchase new hardware (or software), either from the store or an online vendor, make sure you hold on to the packing material until you have installed and tested the new device. The reason is simple, if you have to return the product and you do not have the packing material, you will either be charged a hefty fee or they may not even accept the return.

By holding on to the original packaging and, when applicable, any shipping materials such as boxes and peanuts/bubble wrap, you are assured this situation will not bite you.

Additionally, if you do a lot of shipping yourself, reuse the packing material from shipments you receive to help both the environment and your wallet.