Moving tips
Short-Term Storage Tips That Will Make Life Easier
By TLC Moving & Storage · Published 14 August 2020
Short-term storage, typically less than three months, is a great option when you’re relocating or freeing up space. Take an inventory, label every box, keep perishables and valuables out, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
What counts as short-term storage
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.
Plan before you store
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.
Four habits keep a storage space easy to use:
Take an inventory
Label your boxes when packing
Don’t store anything perishable or valuable
Don’t be afraid to ask for help
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. Packing before you store is covered by packing services.
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.
Questions about moving with TLC
How do I organize a short-term storage unit?
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.
Why label boxes going into storage?
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.
What should I not put in short-term storage?
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.
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