Self-storage is a great way to store your belongings when you don’t have the space for them. It can be especially helpful during moves or when you are renovating your home. However, it is important to protect your belongings while they are in storage. Here are some tips on how to do that:
Choose a suitable storage facility
Make sure to do your research when choosing a self-storage facility. You want to find a clean, well-lit, and secure place. The last thing you want is for your belongings to be damaged or stolen while they are in storage. Take the time to read reviews of different storage facilities before making your decision. Once you have found a few that seem promising, visit them in person to get a feel for the place. Ultimately, it would be best to choose the storage facility that makes you feel the most comfortable and gives you peace of mind knowing that your belongings are safe.
Pack your belongings properly
If you want your belongings to stay in good condition while in storage, it is important to pack them properly. Start by wrapping fragile items in bubble wrap or packing peanuts. Then, place those items in the right size boxes, so they don’t move around and get damaged. It is also a good idea to take inventory of everything you are putting into storage to keep track of it all. When packing up your belongings, think about how you will access them while they are in storage. If there are certain items that you will need to get to more often, pack them in an easily accessible spot. Do not pack your very valuables into storage.
Store your belongings in a cool, dry place
Temperature and humidity can damage your belongings, so storing them in a cool, dry place is important. If possible, find a storage unit that has climate control. This will help to keep your belongings in the same condition as when you stored them. If climate control is not an option, try to find a storage unit that is not in direct sunlight. The sun can cause furniture and other items to fade over time. You should also avoid storing anything near water sources, such as sprinklers or automatic sinks. Some tips are:
- Put your belongings in plastic bags to keep them dry.
- Place a dehumidifier in your storage unit.
- Use mothballs or lavender sachets to keep insects away from your belongings.
Keep your belongings organised
When your belongings are in storage, it can be easy for them to become disorganised. To keep this from happening, label all of the boxes and put them in a logical order. If you need to, make a map of where everything is so that you can find things quickly and easily. It is also a good idea to periodically go through your storage unit and check on your belongings. This will help you catch any problems early on and prevent damage. Some tips to follow:
- Label all of your boxes.
- Put heavier items on the bottom and lighter items on the top.
- Store things that you will need to access often in an easily accessible spot.
- Periodically check on your belongings to make sure everything is okay.
Make sure you have sufficient insurance
Your self-storage facility may offer insurance, but it is always a good idea to have your own policy in place as well. This way, you will be covered if anything happens to your belongings while they are in storage. Be sure to read the fine print of any insurance policy so that you understand what is and is not covered. In addition, it is a good idea to take pictures or videos of your belongings before you put them into storage. This documentation can be helpful if you need to make a claim.
Keep the following in mind with insurance:
- If you have valuable items in storage, consider getting a separate insurance policy for them.
- Make sure the insurance is for the total value of your belongings and for the entire duration of storage
Ask for assistance from professionals
If you are not sure how to properly store your belongings or if you have valuables that need to be stored, it is a good idea to ask for assistance from a professional. Self-storage facilities usually have staff members who are knowledgeable about storing things safely. They can advise on what to do and help you find the proper storage unit for your needs.
When asking for help from professionals, keep the following in mind:
- Ask about their experience with storing similar items.
- Get recommendations on what type of storage unit would be best for your belongings.
- Inquire about any special services that they offer, such as climate-controlled units or insurance.
Security regarding self-storage
Security is one of the most important things to consider when putting your belongings into self-storage. You want to ensure that your belongings are safe and secure while in storage. When looking at storage units, be sure to find one with good security measures, such as gated access, security cameras, and on-site staff.
In addition to finding a secure storage unit, there are some other things that you can do to protect your belongings:
- Do not tell people about what you are storing or where it is located.
- Make sure that the unit is locked at all times.
- Store valuable items in a spot that is not easily accessible.
Purchase an extra lock for peace of mind
While most self-storage units come with a lock, purchasing an extra one is always a good idea. This way, you can be sure that your belongings are safe and secure. Also, be sure to get a high-quality lock that cannot be easily cut or broken.
When purchasing an extra lock for your storage unit, keep the following in mind:
- Get a heavy-duty lock that cannot be easily cut or broken.
- Make sure the lock is properly secured before leaving your belongings unattended.
- Keep the key to the lock in a safe place where you will not lose it.
In conclusion, following these tips will help ensure that your belongings are safe and secure while in self-storage. Be sure to research, ask for professional help, and take measures to protect your belongings. By taking the time to do this, you can rest assured knowing that your belongings are in good hands.