Storage units are incredibly convenient for freeing up some space at home or the workplace when a renovation or removal is taking place. Flexibility enables the need for either short term storage or long term storage, but before you start packing up ready to put your valued items into storage it’s a good idea to determine the difference between long and short term so that you don’t overspend during the process.
Here is our quick guide for packing your items for Short term vs. long term storage:
Short term storage
Short term storage is generally considered three months or less, and it’s ideal because it does allow access to your items if you need to pop back from time to time to pick something up.
We always recommend creating an isle down the centre of the storage unit for short term storage because it allows you to walk around the unit freely to find things with ease.
- Make sure your items are clearly labelled within the boxes so that you can find things afterward.
- Fragile items need to be packed extra carefully and again clearly labelled as such and make sure that fragile boxed items are not stored at the bottom of the pile.
- Invest in plenty of bubble wrap and kraft paper to wrap your items safely so that in the event of accidental falls, everything is cushioned safely.
- To prevent dust from gathering, especially in terms of furniture storage, use dust covers or large plastic sheets to protect your items and keep them clean.
Long term storage
Long term storage is very different to short term; long term could mean anything from a bit more than three months to a couple of years.
Before you begin to pack for long term storage its best to have good old clear out first, many items you may have could be insignificant and not really worth the time or money to put into long term storage. By doing this, you may even be able to make a little bit of cash which you could use to put towards the cost of long-term storage.
- Ensure items are in durable boxes that can withstand the longevity of long term storage.
- Avoid plastic for long term as it can accumulate moisture and damp.
- For electrical items, wrap carefully using cloths and sheets and protect the cables.
- Use pallets, which you can generally pick up for free from many factories because boxes and furniture pieces are better stored off the ground to allow the air to flow freely.
Whatever you choose, it’s important to label every box and keep an updated inventory on what items are in storage, so you know where each item is located at all times.
So, which option is right for you? Find out what size unit is necessary and for how long you will need it. No matter what your specific needs are, U Store It offers a wide range of self-storage solutions.
