Storage units can be a great option if you require secure, long-term storage facilities. With the ability to commit to a rolling contract, most storage facilities will enable you to hire a unit for as long as you need it, so they’ll be no pressure to move your items before you’re ready to do so.
However, when you’re using a unit for long-term storage, you’ll want to ensure your items are packed appropriately. As well as making your things easier to transport, packing them well will ensure they don’t suffer any unnecessary damage as a result of being kept in storage for a long period of time. To learn more about storing items safely, take a look at these six top tips for longer-term storage…
- Don’t rely on plastic bags
If you’re moving relatively light items, such as clothes and toys, plastic bags might seem like the ideal way to store and transport them. However, plastic can retain moisture, which could lead to mildew or mould. To avoid your items getting damp, banish plastic bags and opt for containers or boxes instead.
- Find a long-term storage facility
Although most storage facilities do offer long-term storage, make sure your chosen facility can accommodate your needs. When you’re searching for storage facility online, such as https://www.henfieldstorage.co.uk/site/horsham, ensure you can arrange long-term storage or an open-ended contract. Whilst most facilities are happy to oblige, you may even find that you’ll benefit from a discounted rate or offers if you’re signing up for a long period of time.
- Ask about climate control
Some storage facilities offer climate-controlled units, so this may be something you want to enquire about. However, effective packing can often minimise the need for climate control. If you don’t have access to a temperature-controlled unit or you don’t want to increase your budget, ensure your packing methods help to prevent extremes of temperature affecting your belongings.
- Use pallets
Instead of placing goods directly on the floor of your storage unit, line the floor with pallets instead. Although this will take up a small amount of space, pallets will ensure that the air is able to circulate around your things, and this could prevent them from becoming damp. As the floor is often the coldest surface of any room, placing your boxes and containers on pallets will help to protect them from colder temperatures too.
- Wrap fragile items
If you’re storing fragile goods, such as china, artwork or electronics, ensure they’re well-wrapped and fully-protected. The manufacturer or retailer may be able to provide you with specific long-term storage tips, so it’s worth checking whether there are any guidelines you should follow when you’re storing particularly valuable or fragile pieces.
- Take a strategic approach
Although you may need to store your belongings for a long period of time, consider whether you’ll need to access anything during this period. If so, try and arrange your unit so that the items you’re most likely to need are easily accessible.
