When it comes to storage, there’s a lot more to it than you might expect at first glance. You don’t just want to dump everything into a storage unit and forget about it. Packing still matters; proper packaging matters. When you’re looking for self-storage in Maida Vale, you want to make sure that you can easily move your things both in and out of storage. You need to consider things like the right kind of tape to use (duck tape isn’t always the best option), the right sized boxes, and how all of that works together.
The materials used to pack them, the way you stack boxes in storage units and the consideration between short term and long term storage options can make quite a difference – in more than just price, as well. Staying organised is crucial and a little bit of work upfront can make all the difference when the time comes to move things around or if you find yourself in a situation when you need just one box out of a packed storage unit. You don’t want that box at the back, buried in the far corner under dozens of others that are behind stored furniture.
Short-Term Storage Considerations
First of all, think about what short-term storage means to you. Is this just a few days? A few weeks? Or three months? These are situations where storage should be considered a stop-gap as opposed to a permanent or semi-permanent solution of any kind.
This might be what you do while moving from a bigger house to a smaller one, re-arranging new possessions from an estate sale or inheritance, or a variety of other situations. Maybe in downsizing, you intend to sell off a lot of extra things but just can’t fit everything into a tight schedule right at this moment. Short-term storage takes care of those situations where space is needed at least for a little while.
In this situation, things are often a bit chaotic and one of the best ways to prevent the headache of packing something you realise you need right now, while everything else can remain for a few more weeks or months, is to keep an aisle in the middle. While instinct is to start filling up the back and slowly move forward, for speed and access use vertical space against each wall and packing in a U with the open end facing you.
This means quicker access to everything that’s in there. This also lets you carefully keep track of your most fragile possessions and position them carefully. Make sure to be extra careful packaging things during short term storage since more moving means more possibilities of a problem taking place.
Long-Term Storage Considerations
Most people are familiar with long-term storage and have had to use it at one time or another. One major tip is to avoid plastic. While plastic can be good for the short term. over time it can be damaged, including the water damage you are most likely trying to prevent. Nobody wants to find months or years of mould after opening a storage unit.
Don’t skimp on boxes for long-term storage. You want boxes that are made of thick cardboard, are sturdy and can last for years. Your average box will crumple over time, especially if they are stacked and therefore have weight coming down on them. One solution to this could be hard plastic containers instead of cardboard. Vacuum sealing boxes of clothing can make sense if you have the tools and ability.
Finally, make sure to keep a detailed inventory list. You want to be aware of every single item that you have in storage. This way you don’t lose track of what you have.
Following these tips will help you handle storage and packaging needs like a pro.