What's the risk of ESD damage moving an already built PC?

Question

I am aware of the risks of ESD damage when building a PC. But what about moving an already built PC (where all the components are installed in a closed PC case)?

I want to take a PC, pop it into a carry bag, and take it on the bus to town. While the motherboard and components are of course protected by the case, all the IO ports (USB, DVI, VGA sockets) are exposed. What's the risk of static building up during the trip and zapping components through the IO ports?

Answer 1

Most (if not all) modern ports have ESD protection built-in. So I would say there is no risk.

I would still cover IO ports and fan mesh just to avoid getting more dust inside, not because of ESD. A plastic bag should be fine.

Answer 2

What's the risk of static building up during the trip and zapping components through the IO ports?

Near zero.

I want to take a PC, pop it into a carry bag

Unless the bag and it's contents are a combination known to generate static (plastic bag, woollen contents?) you should be OK. PCs are often shipped by the manufacturer in a plastic bag.

If you are still worried and don't mind looking crazy, you could cover the IO ports. Maybe with tinfoil :)