One of the questions that we are often asked is whether it is safe for electronics to be kept in a self storage unit. Updated devices are coming on stream almost daily with new features and technology on offer, designed to bring us more entertainment or make our lives easier. The question is what to do with the old ones as they may be in perfect condition. This means that there are many more devices that need to be stored. Think of old phones, computers, laptops, tv’s and tablets that are constantly being updated. We all want to own this latest model.

These electronic devices need to be stored carefully as you may not wish to throw them out or recycle them. It is not just a matter of packing them into any old box and throwing them into your self storage unit. It requires some planning if you want them to endure the storage time and come out in one piece and still working! If you are moving house or just need a safe place to store this equipment, a self storage unit is perfect as it offers a safe and secure place to keep them. Even if they are old, they are still valuable and unless kept safely, are always in danger of being stolen.

How to Prepare Your Electronics for Storage

  1. Back up Your Data, Remove Batteries, CD’s, and Ink Cartridges

    This is essential in case something goes wrong while your devices are in storage. So if you are storing pc’s, tablets, external hard drives, or laptops back up the data and store it in the cloud or somewhere else safe. At least the digital part of your life will be saved if there is an emergency. Remove any batteries (if possible) from mobile phones, laptops, or any other devices that use batteries as a leaking battery can cause irreparable damage to the circuitry. Remove any CD’s from CD players, DVD players and any other devices.

  2. Take Photos of the Cables and Power Units at the Back of Your Devices

    Before you disconnect the cables and chargers from your devices, take photos to keep a record so that when you need to set them up again you can easily see what goes where. Store the power units and cables together with each device to help you reconnect at a later stage when you need them again.

  3. Remove Every Trace of Dust from Each Device

    Ensure they are dust free before placing them in boxes as any dust can affect the circuitry and cause major issues for the devices if they are left stored for the long term. Your devices will last much longer and still be in perfect condition if you make sure that they are as clean as possible before packing them away.

  4. Store Your Electronic Devices in Their Original Packaging

    The boxes that the devices came in and their internal supports are constructed to be strong enough to protect the device against damage so if you have kept the packaging this is the best way to store them.. If the device is large, like a large tv, wrap it in clean cotton sheets which will keep any dust particles out and prevent any scratches. It is better to avoid wrapping these devices in plastic as this could lead to moisture condensing against the device which will cause permanent damage to your devices.

  5. Don’t Spare the Packaging

    If you are storing smaller devices use new (not used) boxes as these are stronger. Use plenty of packaging material and tape to keep the boxes sealed. Don’t leave empty spaces in the box as the device has to be packed firmly and cannot move around in case the box is dropped or squashed. So use packing peanuts, inflatable air cushioning pads, and plenty of bubble wrap to make sure the devices are secured.

  6. TV Screens and Monitors

    Wrap TV screens and monitors in anti-static foam to protect them. Wrap electronics in bubble wrap and use extra foam padding to stop items from bumping against each other. Place in strong boxes and add additional foam fillers to keep the items from moving. Tape up the boxes firmly.

  7. Can a Flat Screen TV Be Stored on its Side?

    The answer is NO. Flat screen TV’s must be stored upright, and never on their back or sides.

How to Pack Your Electronics in a Self Storage Unit

  • Avoid placing the boxes onto a cement floor as there could be a moisture build up. Place a tarpaulin down first or pack your boxes on pallets so ensure that there is air circulating.
  • Pack the boxes containing your electronics at the back of your unit so that there is less chance of them being pushed around, especially if you visit your storage unit often. Avoid packing them in high piles which may fall over but could also result in too much weight being put on the boxes at the bottom, crushing the contents.
  • If you are storing a flat screen tv make sure that you do not stack anything on top of it as this could put pressure on the screen, causing damage.
  • Label the boxes that aren’t the original packaging to enable you to locate anything you are looking for easily.

How Stop & Store Lowestoft Can Help You

When you have expensive electronics that you wish to place in storage consider hiring a self storage unit at our storage facility. Here are some of the reasons why.

  • Your priority will be to trust that your goods are safe and secure from theft. Our facility is fully secured with CCTV that is monitored 24/7, and we also have intruder alarms.
  • With our easy booking system, you book and pay online, we send you your individual PIN code, and you have immediate access to your unit.
  • Our units are clean and dry.
  • You can access your stored goods seven days a week, between 8am and 8pm, using your PIN code.
  • Our storage units vary in size from just 12 sq ft up to 200 sq ft which offers a wide choice to our customers.

If you would like more information about storing your electronics in one of our units, please contact us on 01502 580005. We look forward to hearing from you.