Tips on Storing TVs and Other Electronics in a Storage Unit

If you’ve ever had to pack up and store your belongings for a move or renovation, you’re probably well aware that certain pieces are more fragile than others. Sure, your couch or nightstand will probably do okay wherever you put them, but what about your TV set or stereo? That’s a whole other can of worms.

You may be wondering, can you even store electronics in storage? The short answer is yes, but there are some things you will want to keep in mind when choosing a storage unit.

For example, some electronics may not fare well in a hot or humid environment, so you may want to look into climate-controlled options. The size of the unit plays an important role, too. But before you even decide on the right storage unit, you’ll want to ensure that you are properly packing your electronics for a safe journey and stay in your storage unit.

Below, we’ve provided a handy guide on how to pack a TV for moving and how to store electronics in a storage unit. Our eight easy-to-follow packing and storage tips will help make relocating your TV and other electronics a success.

Tip #1: Gather Your Packing Supplies

When packing up your electronics, your best bet is to use the box they arrived in to ensure a safe and snug fit. The original packaging will often include foam pieces to help protect the item. While you’re at it, see if you can find the owner’s manual, too. The owner’s manual may provide specific packing or storing instructions unique to that equipment, such as whether you need to avoid humidity or exposure to warm temperatures.

If you do not have the original packing, track down a cardboard box that is a close fit and search for a screen protector or anti-static foam and bubble wrap. Depending on the size of the box, you may want to add packing peanuts or other filler materials for extra protection. Make sure you have tape handy to seal up all your boxes. By the way, we feature all the packing supplies you may need online and on-site at our Stor-It locations.

Tip #2: Prepare Your Electronics for Packing

With all your packing materials on hand, you are ready to start prepping for packing. But remember, you don’t want to store dirty electronics! In fact, you might be surprised at just how much damage dust can do to your electronics.

Prep your electronics for storing by wiping them down and dusting them. Use a compressed air duster to remove dust from all those tiny crevices, from the keyboard to the outlets. If you are packing up your TV, wipe the screen with a microfiber cloth to remove any dust and fingerprints. If the remote control or mouse is grubby, run a wet wipe across it to remove any grime.

Tip #3: Take a Photo of the Connections

If you want to save yourself a future headache, take a photo of where and how the wires connect to your electronics before you begin unplugging and packing. Does that blue cord go to the outlet or the speakers? And what about that black wire with the yellow tape? Try as you might, there’s a good chance you won’t remember how you jerry-rigged your electronic setup down the road. Consult the photo when you’re ready to set your system back up again. You’ll be glad you have a roadmap to follow!

Tip #4: Take Inventory of All Parts

Another major tip in our guide on how to store a TV for moving involves keeping track of all its loose parts. This is especially important if you plan on storing a TV in a storage unit for a long period, as you may not remember which parts go with which electronics after a while.

Make a list of all accessories, wires, connections, and manuals, and then put all of those parts into a baggy with the list. You’ll put that into the box with your equipment. Take batteries out of remotes and mouses, and neatly wrap up any wires. If you’re packing multiple TVs or electronics, you may want to label or color code each set so there is no confusion. Maybe the living room TV parts receive green stickers, while the bedroom TV has red labels. Again, this is just one more way you can set yourself up for success when the time comes to unpack your electronics.

Tip #5: Start Packing

It’s go time! Start carefully wrapping your electronics and placing them in boxes with their corresponding accessories. When it comes to packing fragile items like electronics, there is no such thing as being too safe. Use as much bubble wrap as you need to help protect your items. Once they are all boxed up and sealed with tape, write “fragile” and the name of the electronic item on the outside of the box. This will remind whoever is packing or storing to take special care when handling. Make sure you also mark which way is “up,” so you do not accidentally place it upside-down or on its side when storing.

Tip #6: Turn to the Professionals

With all your electronics packaged up, you’re ready to find the perfect storage unit. If you’re not sure what size unit would best fit your electronics, ask the experts. Here at Stor-It, we always have managers on hand who can answer all your questions and provide you with guidance on long- and short-term storage options.

Are you planning to store your electronics in their own unit? Or will they share the unit with other belongings like furniture? The Stor-It professionals will help you choose the best-sized unit and determine if you should go the climate-controlled unit route. This is especially important if you’re storing electronics in cold weather or during the humid season, as you will want to protect your electronics from the elements.

Tip #7: Ask for a Hand

Now that you’ve packaged up your electronics and sorted out your storage unit, you need to determine how to move the TV to the storage facility. Our advice is don’t try to muscle through it on your own. No matter how strong you are, accidents happen, so it’s best to ask for help. Get your friends, neighbors, or family to assist you with safely transporting it into your car or moving truck and then into the storage unit on the other end. If you don’t have anyone who can help, use a hand truck, moving cart, or even lifting straps to assist you.

Tip #8: Strategically Pack Your Storage Unit

Now it’s a just matter of figuring out how to store electronics in the storage unit. Obviously, you’re dealing with delicate items, so you will want to create a strategic plan to make sure everything is stored safely.

We recommend storing all your electronics at the back of your unit, particularly if they are sharing a space with your other belongings. This keeps them away from foot traffic and potential accidents. Here’s a tip specific to TV storing: place your TV upright and give it some extra space around it. You may want to place a blanket around it for extra protection, too. Never place a TV on its side or upside down or store items on top of it, as that could damage or smash the screen.

Once you have found a safe home for all your electronics within the storage unit, take note of their locations, so you do not accidentally bump them or place other items on top of them during future visits to your storage unit.

Learn More About Storing Your Electronics at Stor-It

The crew here at Stor-It are experts in self-storage units. We are the largest and oldest storage facility in Idaho, with more than 16 locations across the state. Whether you are storing a TV in a storage unit during your home renovation or a big move, or storing a spare computer, we have the perfect unit to accommodate your needs. In addition to providing a wide range of unit sizes with 24/7 access, we also offer insurance to help further protect your items. Ready to find a storage unit for all your electronics? Contact us today.