Preparing Items for Storage in a Facility
A storage unit can keep your belongings safe when moving or decluttering. If you are looking for a storage center, The Storage Mall has multiple self-storage facilities in various locations. You can take several steps to stay organized and protect your items during storage, including boxing and labeling. Consider the following preparation steps to help make it easier to find and unpack items in the future:
Declutter
Before you begin preparing your items for storage in a facility, declutter items that you no longer need or use. This can make packing easier and help you avoid storing items you no longer want. Decluttering may allow you to get a smaller storage unit and make it easier to find your belongings when you need them.
Use High-quality Packing Supplies
Investing in high-quality packing supplies may make the process easier and protect your items from dust and pests. Use sturdy boxes or bins, bubble wrap, and packing tape. You can use clear plastic bins that allow you to see inside each box, which could save you time when looking for items. Using containers that are one size and easy to stack can also improve storage space.
Clean Items
Cleaning your belongings before putting them into storage can help prevent mold and other issues. Food particles, dirt, and dust left on items for a prolonged amount of time may damage items or attract pests. This applies to items like furniture, electronics, and kitchen equipment. Cleaning may also save you time when you eventually retrieve your items.
Protect Fragile Items
Pack your fragile items, such as ceramics, artwork, and glassware, in their own boxes. Consider wrapping them in protective materials, such as bubble wrap or packing paper. These measures can help protect your fragile items and minimize the risk of damage. Writing “fragile” on the outside of the boxes can alert movers that the box should be handled with care.
Label Boxes
During the preparation process, label each box clearly for improved organization. Include the box’s contents and where they belong in your home. You can use a color-coded labeling system to assign colors to different item categories like the kitchen and bedroom. If you are moving, labeling can make it easier to unpack in your new space.
Prevent Moisture Damage
Moisture can damage items such as clothing, wood, books, and electronics. Place these items in airtight containers or sealed plastic bags before placing them into storage. This can protect them from moisture build-up or humidity. We also have many climate-controlled storage units for items prone to moisture damage. These specific storage units aim to prevent mildew, mold, and warping, which can protect your valuables.
Disassemble Larger Items
Disassembling larger items like furniture can help you optimize space and make moving more manageable. After disassembling the item, you can place the pieces into a box. Use plastic bags to store small parts like screws, bolts, and nuts, placing them inside the designated boxes with the larger pieces. If you have the original instruction manual, keep it with the disassembled parts or in a designated folder. This can make it easier to reassemble in the future.
Create an Inventory
Creating an inventory of every item you place in storage can help you stay organized. When you make your list, place the items into categories, such as the type of item or room that they belong in. This can help you keep track of your belongings and allow you to find specific items when you need them.
Organize Your Storage Unit
When preparing your items for storage, create a strategic plan for how you will organize your items in the storage space. Place boxes that you will need to access frequently towards the front of your storage unit for easy retrieval. Stack boxes securely and leave pathways so you can access all of your items. This can help you find your items without needing to move all of your boxes.
Protect Electronics
Wrap electronics such as televisions and computers in packing paper or bubble wrap to prevent damage during moving. The cords and wires should be disconnected and stored separately. If you have electronics with files saved on them, back them up as a precaution before putting them into storage.
Store Your Items at a Trusted Storage Center
Organizing, investing in high-quality packing supplies, and creating a plan can help keep your items safe while in storage. By following these guidelines, you can simplify the moving or decluttering process and protect your items so they remain in good condition. The Storage Mall is a storage center company that has locations in multiple states, from Kansas to New York. We have safe and secure indoor storage units, many with climate-control features to keep your moisture-sensitive items safe. Contact us today to start storing your items at a location near you.