Your Complete Self-Storage Checklist
Its amazing how much we can accumulate over the course of just a few years. When you need self-storage, a little bit of organization will go a long way in making the most of your space.The first thing on your to-do list is to choose a storage unit which is within your budget. The cost of the storage unit will be determined by how much space you need, which in turn corresponds to much stuff you have.In order to adequately plan how much space you need, and how you should distribute your belongings in that space, make a full list of everything you plan to store.
Heavy items will need to be on the bottom, seasonal or frequently-accessed items near the front, and fragile items on top or with a bit of space to themselves.You will also want to be sure that the self-storage company is reputable and that there havent been any recent break-ins or floods or other problems.Any quality facility should have security features like a perimeter fence, a keypad-access gate, cameras, and enough lighting.In some cases, you will want to select a storage facility with units that are equipped with temperature controls, especially if you are storing photos.
Take special precaution when storing photos; these should have a sheet of archival quality paper placed between each one, and then be stacked tightly together.Before storing any valuable or irreplaceable documents, be sure to make extra copies.When storing electronic files or materials, it’s important to protect everything with a secure password.Once you are sure you have the right amount of space, you will need to get your storage materials together.You don’t want your boxes sitting directly on the floor, so the first step is to get some heavy plastic or wooden shelving or pallets.In a situation like this, where your items are going to be stored for long periods of time, you will want to get hold of quality, standard boxes.
This will help you organize, label, and stack them., especially if the boxes you choose are a reasonable size.If you do need to use donated boxes from your local supermarket, check them over and only use those that are free of holes or tears and which have lids or closable tops, to protect your items from dust.With your boxes ready, you now need to focus on getting the right packing materials.Although it’s true that your boxes won’t be moved around once they are placed in storage, you want to avoid the potential for accidental damage.Use bubble wrap, foam, or even regular paper to cushion your items - but do not use newspaper, as the ink can bleed and stain your belongings.
It’s very important not to overpack your boxes, as this can cause the contents to become damaged or crushed, especially when boxes are stacked. Another option to help prevent your items from being impacted and damaged is by creating little cardboard dividers to give each object its own space. Finally, reinforce all the corners with tape to increase the boxs durability.All sides of the box should be marked with what is inside; be sure to write FRAGILE on all sides, as well. Dont stack your boxes too tall, and remember your easy-access distribution plan.Make sure to purchase a special cover for your big-ticket items like furniture, matresses, or recreational vehicles (3-wheelers, etc).For these items, avoid simple plastic covers, which trap moisture and create mildew; a better choice is a specially-designed cover or even canvas.
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