As college students finish the semester and start packing up to head home for summer break, one crucial detail often overlooked is how to store electronics until the next school year properly. Electronics are expensive, valuable items, so it's essential to take the time now to ensure they stay safe and protected over summer break. Fortunately, with a few clever tips from experts in the field, we can ensure our precious technology survives unscathed until the fall semester arrives! Get all your questions answered on preparing your technology for storage, and read on for some of the best advice about handling electronics when making a college move.

1. Backup your data: 

Before packing your electronics, back up all your data to prevent any loss or damage while in storage. There are many ways to back up your data, such as using cloud storage, external hard drives, or even a USB drive. Once you spend the time backing it up, you can rest easy all summer and not worry about anything going wrong. So, please don't wait until it's too late. Start backing up your data today to avoid any potential data loss headaches when you return to school.

2. Label all cords: 

While wireless is the trend in electronics, some of us aren't fully there yet. A lot of our electronics, appliances and anything with electricity come with a cord. Cords can detach, get tangled, and then leave us wondering where which cable went with which device! It's frustrating and time-consuming to figure it out after the fact. Be smart and take a photo of how all the cords are connected, and label each cord or cable with a piece of tape or label maker to avoid confusion during unpacking.

3. Keep screws in labeled bags: 

When disassembling furniture or electronics, put the screws or small parts in labeled bags so you don't lose them. Be intentional with your organization regarding the small details, so you don't end up throwing everything out in frustration and purchasing it all brand new. 

4. Use anti-static bags: 

When packing electronic items, use anti-static bags to prevent any electrical damage. Anti-static bags are essential as they prevent electrostatic discharge, which can damage electronic components. These bags create a barrier that prevents static electricity from building up on the surface of the device, making them a vital tool for protecting electronics during storage or transportation.

5. Wrap items individually: 

Wrap each electronic item separately in bubble wrap or packing paper to protect them from damage. If you want to cut corners on packing for storage, there are plenty of ways to do it (used boxes, sharing storage space, etc.), but your electronics should not be one of them. Take the time and supplies needed to wrap all of your items separately. Combining or doubling up when wrapping your electronics is a recipe for disaster. 

5. Use original packaging: 

I always wondered why my parents saved the boxes on oversized items they purchased–and now I know why! Original packaging is the best way to pack your items when putting them into storage, especially electronics and appliances. The boxes were designed with perfect measurements, so your item has the right amount of space to protect it.

6. Choose appropriate boxes: 

Use sturdy, appropriately sized boxes that accommodate the electronic items you are packing. You don't want boxes that break when you lift them, and you don't want boxes that are so big that your items will wobble around inside. Not all boxes are created equally; some are made to handle big moves, while others are not. At Storage Scholars, we provide students with the sturdiest ones around; best of all, they're entirely complimentary!  

7. Fill boxes properly: 

Fill boxes with packing material such as packing peanuts or bubble wrap to keep items from shifting or moving around during transport. If you don't have any of those things on hand, use winter clothes, towels, or sheets to fill empty spaces. Thankfully, in addition to the complimentary boxes you'll get with Storage Scholars, you'll also get all the complimentary bubble wrap you need. You can even take extra just to be sure you'll have enough!

8. Don't overpack boxes:

When it comes to moving, it can be tempting to cram as much as possible into each box to minimize the number of trips required and the number of items in storage. However, overpacking can lead to several issues. First and foremost, it increases the risk of damage to your belongings as they may be crushed or broken under the weight of other items. Additionally, overpacked boxes are more difficult to move, increasing the risk of injury to yourself or those helping you move. They may also be more likely to tear or burst open during transport, leaving your items vulnerable to loss or damage. To ensure a safe and successful move, do not overpack your boxes and distribute the weight of your belongings evenly among them.

9. Label boxes: 

Moving your belongings from one place to another is not as simple as throwing everything into boxes. Electronics, for instance, should be labeled "fragile" so they are handled with extra care during transport! Fortunately, Storage Scholars has already considered this problem - each complimentary box comes equipped with a built-in label just waiting for your custom instructions. So grab the Sharpie and get labeling.

10. Clean your electronics: 

Before storing your electronics, clean them thoroughly with a microfiber cloth to remove any dust or debris. Excess dust and debris can lead to overheating and damage to internal components over time. It can also be a breeding ground for mice and insects, which can cause further damage to all of your stored items. A good cleaning can help ensure that they are in good condition when you move back in, extending their lifespan and saving you money in the long run. 

11. Remove batteries: 

With the business of the moving season, removing batteries from your electronic devices might not be at the top of your mind, but leaving them in can cause great harm. Batteries, if left in, can corrode your devices. Also, they could leak acid onto other valuable possessions and become a fire hazard. So before the movers arrive, be sure to take out your batteries! 

12. Use climate-controlled storage: 

When shopping around for a storage unit, there are many questions to ask: How much will it cost? What will it cover? And equally important: is the unit climate controlled? This last one is important to protect your electronics (as well as the rest of your stored items) from extreme temperatures and humidity that can be found in different climates, especially in the summer. Coastal towns, primarily, are known for excessive summer humidity leading perfectly stored items to develop mold or mildew and attract pests. Rest assured that your belongings are climate controlled for the summer. 

13. Protect screens: 

While you may already have plenty of bubble wrap and packing peanuts, you may not have thought about specifically protecting all the screens you've got in storage. TVs, computer monitors, laptops, and even things like alarm clocks or smart appliances all have screens that need protecting. It won't hurt to go the extra step by covering these items with protective films and cloths to prevent scratching and breaks. 

14. Insure your belongings:

All the preparation in the world can't prevent accidents or things like fire and theft. While it's rare, it's a possibility. Add insurance to your belongings before putting them into storage. At Storage Scholars, every item automatically comes with $100 of insurance! And for your more expensive items (like those TVs and pricey electronics) you can add additional insurance for a minimal fee. This is the ultimate way to make sure your items are safe and protected while you're gone for the summer. 

15. Dispose of unwanted electronics properly:

If, in the end, you decide you need to ditch some of your old electronics in the process of moving (hey, it happens!), we urge you to ditch responsibly. Throwing unwanted electronics in the trash can have some serious effects on the environment. Many internal components in old laptops, TVs, cell phones, and printers are unable to decompose and are known to contaminate soil and water which can really impact our health. If you can't fix, donate, or sell your old stuff, ask your campus about locations nearby that will take and recycle them properly.

Final Thoughts:

Moving electronics to summer storage doesn't have to be a stressful experience. By following these tips, you can ensure your devices make it to their destination in one piece and are ready to use when you return. Remember to pack smart, label everything, and take advantage of protective materials like bubble wrap. And if all else fails, remember that broken electronics can always be replaced. After all, what's college without a few funny moving stories to share with your friends?

Happy moving and enjoy your summer!

If we can help make your summer storage experience a little easier on you, don't hesitate to reach out to us with your questions or sign up today to reserve your spot with us!