Having storage outside your home has proven incredibly useful when dealing with a lack of space. You can use the storage unit to keep safe all the items you don’t need in your home every day – seasonal clothes, hobby tools, furniture waiting for a DIY project, and more. This can be a valuable space that will make your home more spacious and comfortable. However, using storage is not that simple. Some guidelines will make it more practical and cost-effective and ensure a safe environment for your items. Luckily, we’re here to help you find the best unit and prepare your items for storing. Here’s everything to know about long-term storage.
Getting the storage of the wrong size can be an issue. Take a unit that’s too small, and you won’t be able to fit all the items you want. On the other hand, taking a unit that’s too big is a waste of money. That’s why you need to estimate how much space you need before you start searching for a perfect unit. They come in different sizes and shapes, so it’s important to know what you’ll store to choose the best unit according to your needs. You can take measurements and even use an online estimator to help you decide. Careful planning will ensure you’ve got the unit that best fits your needs.
There are so many storage businesses on the market. But not all of them provide the same amount of safety and good conditions. That’s why you need to choose carefully, especially if you’re storing valuable items. Visit the site and check the overall security of the units. See if there are surveillance cameras, how safe the locks and gates and if the place is well-lit.
Also, the conditions of the unit should ensure your items stay safe after being stored for a long time. If you plan to keep things that are sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity, climate-controlled units are probably the best option. Climate-controlled units are very important for preserving items such as electronics, documents, art, etc., as they won’t get affected by moisture.
Long-term storage is an investment in additional space away from your home. That’s why you need to take the most cost-effective option and plan those expenses well. You can set up automatic monthly payments to ensure these costs don’t pile up. Also, make sure you think of the storage expenses when moving. By renting storage, you get a safe place for your items, so you can reduce unnecessary moving expenses and save money that way. Instead of moving certain items multiple times, keep them in storage and reduce your moving expenses.
Storing items outside your home doesn’t need to be expensive.
To make sure your storage unit is organized and easily accessible at any time, you need to plan your packing and storing techniques. This means you should carefully pick items that will go to the back and front of the unit. Items you don’t need can go back, but if there are some that you’ll need more often, make sure to put them in the front. Also, large and bulky items should go on the bottom, towards the end of the unit.
Furthermore, store items in such a way you create an aisle in the middle. This will allow you to reach everything, even those items you put far behind. Going vertical can also help to maximize space in your unit. Install additional shelves and hooks to help you make the space more organized.
And finally, label the boxes as you pack. Unless you’re using see-through containers to pack smaller pieces, make sure you label the boxes on the side you can see when you enter the unit. Finding items won’t be a problem, even after a long time.
If you have a tidy and secure storage unit, even the most fragile items will stay in a good condition.
Remember that even the best storing techniques won’t protect your items unless they are well-prepared for storage. Packing and preparation will depend on the type of your items, as various materials require special care. Some of the main tips include:
● Disassemble furniture for easier and safe storing, but don’t forget to keep the parts together and pack them safely, so they don’t get lost;
● Clean and dry items thoroughly as stains and other glue/water residues can damage the items overtime;
● Protect leather and wood items by treating them with special products designed for that type of materials;
● Use extra protection for any fragile items – more padding and wraps are necessary to be safe than sorry.
As you’re using the unit to store items for a longer period, it can easily happen that you forget where something is. That’s why inventory lists are essential in long-term storage spaces. Make a detailed inventory list with all the names of your items, possibly adding more details on their condition. It’s best to put this list on a wall near the entrance to the unit, so you can find items easily the next time you visit. Furthermore, scanning or taking a photo of the list will ensure you keep the list in a digital form in case you lose the one you keep in the unit.
An inventory list can help you find any item even if they are in cardboard boxes.
With a bit of planning and preparation, your long-term storage unit can be a completely safe place to keep your items until the next time you need them. By taking good care of them before storing them, you’ll ensure they last longer and stay secure as long as you need them.
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