Top Tips When Keeping Items in Long-Term Storage

Choose the Right Type of Storage

Storage units come in different types, sizes, and costs. Some of the common storage alternatives include climate-controlled units, regular units, and outdoor units. Each type of self-storage unit has its benefits and drawbacks, so it’s essential to consider which type will work best for your items. Climate-controlled storage units, for example, are perfect for things vulnerable to temperature and humidity changes, such as artwork, wine, papers, electronics, and wooden furniture.

Invest in Quality Packing Supplies

One essential thing to remember when preparing for long-term storage is to invest in high-quality packing supplies. This includes sturdy cardboard boxes, padding, bubble wrap, and packing tape. When purchasing packing materials, consider the durability and thickness of each item to ensure that your belongings are safe from moisture and dust. Never use old, used storage boxes as these are vulnerable and may collapse under the weight, causing damage to the stored items. Avoid plastic bags because they are not sturdy to wrap fragile items in. However, you can use plastic sheeting to line cartons and boxes.

Disassemble Large Furniture

Large furniture items can take up a lot of space in a storage unit, so it’s best to disassemble them when possible to maximise space usage. This can also help avoid damage when moving the furniture into and out of the unit.

Place Items Strategically

When storing items inside the storage unit, keep the larger and heavier items towards the bottom and back of the unit. Place lighter and smaller items on top of the larger ones, and stack them strategically. Ensure that all fragile items like glasses or mirrors are packed safely to avoid damage when moving things around. Remember to wrap valuable items individually because they need to be secured for both sentimental value and actual cost. Prepare soft-packing paper and ask about storage unit insurance for valuables such as these.

Purchase Insurance Coverage

It’s also essential to invest in insurance coverage for your stored items. This can protect you from loss or damage caused by fire, weather-related occurrences, and various other incidents. Insurance coverage can vary depending on the facility, so read the policy carefully before signing up. Ask questions if there are any unclear points in the policy. Make sure your belongings are protected by learning about the facility’s insurance policies.

Use Desiccants and Moisture Absorbers

Moisture is the enemy of stored items, and keeping them dry is essential, especially when storing them for an extended period. To help absorb moisture, consider using desiccants and moisture absorbers inside the unit. These products help control humidity and reduce the risk of mould, mildew, and moisture damage.

Use Shelving Units

Investing in some shelving units is a good choice if you want to make the most of the available space in your storage locker. They help keep items organised and accessible, making reaching items located at the back of the unit easier. Investing in quality shelving units can also provide more protection for fragile items such as decorations or glassware.

Store Items that Need to be Accessed Later in the Front

When packing items, store those that you may need to access later towards the front of the unit. This way, you won’t have to move as many boxes and items when trying to retrieve them. Moving fewer items also reduces the risk of damage or breakage. Additionally, this practice saves time and effort spent searching the unit for specific items. Ensure that your most needed items are accessible and easy to find, but also make sure they’re stored properly to ensure their safety.

Empty Fuel Tanks on Appliances Before Storage

When storing appliances, empty all fuel tanks before putting them in the unit. Also, clean off any dust and debris from the appliance before storage, as this can cause issues. Costly repairs due to gasoline leaks or inside rust will be avoided.

Store Items Off the Ground

When packing your items, avoid placing them directly on the storage unit’s floor, as this can lead to moisture buildup. Putting things on wooden pallets or platforms will help keep them off the ground and provide better air circulation, which helps reduce moisture.

Store Items in Original Boxes

It’s best to store items in their original boxes. This helps ensure that the thing is properly supported and protected during storage. For later reference, you can label or otherwise indicate the contents of each box.

Make Use of a Specialty Storage Space

Consider investing in specialty storage bins if you need to store items that won’t fit into boxes or containers. These containers are available in various sizes, making them ideal for stowing away delicate objects like electronics, pictures, and written materials. They also provide easy access for retrieving items when needed.

Follow Self-Storage Facility Rules and Regulations

Finally, when storing your items in a storage unit, follow the rules and regulations set forth by the facility. This includes not storing flammable items, properly locking mechanisms, and monitoring pest or rodent activity. Following these guidelines will help keep your belongings safe from damage and theft during their time in storage.