Preparing Your Items for Long-Term Storage – Do’s and Don’ts
15Sep
Ensure that your belongings are safe and protected from damages while they’re in storage.
Whether you’re moving or have extra stuff you want out of the house but don’t want to get rid of, renting a long-term storage locker is a great option. However, some planning is involved to ensure that your items remain in the same condition you leave them in and to keep everything organized. Although many facilities are temperature-controlled and monitored by security, you can’t always rely on that to keep your belongings safe. We’re storage experts, and we have all the best tips and tricks to help you prepare your items.
Do: plan out what needs to be stored.
Many people make the mistake of holding onto things longer than they need to. When it comes to long-term storage, you lose a lot of the value of the space when it’s filled with things you don’t need. Long-term storage isn’t always cheap, so it’s a good idea to go through everything beforehand and decide what’s worth keeping for a long time. Consider each item’s condition and sentimental value, and then determine what size unit you’ll need for them. Depending on what you plan on putting away, it may also be wise to consider climate-controlled units and the overall level of security in the facility.
Don’t: put dirty items into storage.
Before putting your stuff into storage, make sure everything is free from dirt, dust, and anything else that could stain or become ingrained in your items. Suppose you’re storing appliances such as fridges, ovens, microwaves, or fridges. In that case, it’s imperative to make sure they’re clean to avoid attracting any bugs or other pests. It’s also crucial to make sure everything is dry as moisture left behind can cause rust, rotting, and mould, depending on the material.
Do: arrange and stack items strategically.
One of the worst mistakes you can make when loading a locker is just throwing everything in and calling it a day. Failing to arrange and stack your items strategically and in an organized manner can make unpacking and finding things in the unit more difficult. When packing any boxes, make sure the boxes are in good condition and avoid stacking heavier boxes high up. You want to stack your items in a way that prevents anything from falling over or collapsing.
Don’t: put perishable items or plants in storage.
Food, plants, and anything else that is perishable overtime should not be kept in long-term storage. Not only will these items likely not survive, but as they start to degrade, they can permanently damage other items or leave a foul smell.
Do: hire a professional moving and storage company.
Finally, if you have any worries or concerns about packing and preparing your items for long-term storage, a professional moving and storage company can help. Professional movers can pack and move your items safely and efficiently so that you have one less thing to worry about. Your belongings are valuable and important to you. You deserve the peace of mind that comes with knowing that the professionals have your best interest in mind and will handle everything with the utmost care.
