Ways to ensure that your items are safe, easily accessible, and organized in your storage space
Whether you’re relocating, redecorating, or just want to free up a bit of space, short-term storage is a great option. There’s no specified duration of time that defines ‘short-term,’ but this would typically mean less than three months. While just ‘throwing’ things in storage without organization and planning may seem tempting, you would be making more work for yourself in the long run.
Where you choose to store your items, how big of a space you need, and what you’re storing are key details to consider. Beyond that, there are some tips and tricks that can help optimize your short-term storage space and ensure that your belongings are safe and easily accessible. The ultimate goal is to make the process as easy on yourself as possible to maximize the benefits and convenience that short-term storage offers.
Take an inventory
Gather all of the items that you plan to put in short-term storage and create a general overview of your belongings. While this may seem tedious, it will reduce the risk of losing, misplacing, or forgetting anything. This will also give you a good idea of exactly how much storage space you will need.
Label your boxes when packing
This is a small detail, but it makes a huge difference. Odds are you aren’t going to remember exactly what is in each box, resulting in the time-consuming chore of opening them all. By labelling your boxes, you’ll also make the process of unpacking much easier on yourself. Additionally, if you only need to stop by your short-term storage space for one or two things, you’ll know exactly where they are so you can grab and go.
Don’t store anything perishable or valuable
While your belongings will likely be safe and well-protected, there are risks that come with almost everything, and short-term storage is no different. The risk of damaging or losing your items is minimal. Still, if you have valuables that you can’t afford to lose, it is better to be safe than sorry.
Storing perishable items like food or plants should also be avoided, even if you’re only storing them for a very short time. If they spoil, it could leave an unpleasant odour as well as attract rodents and insects.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help
Finally, don’t hesitate to ask friends, family, or professionals for help. Similar to moving, putting things in short-term storage can be challenging to do on your own. Even if you don’t think you need it, having a bit of help to pack, organize, or transport your items will make your life much easier and make the transition less stressful.
Reading up on additional moving and storage tips will ensure that you have a seamless moving process from beginning to end.
