Do you own boxes of memorabilia or old files needed for your business that you can't throw away but just don't have any space for anymore? Maybe a relative gave you an antique piece of furniture you can't bear to sell but you don't want to put it in your designer house either? Or perhaps you're moving to a smaller home or need somewhere to put your belongings until you have time to unpack them? Storage is the perfect option for freeing your house of clutter and creating an organized personal or work space. The options for storage are endless and increasingly economical and convenient.
- Self-storage: this is basically "do it yourself" storage where you rent a space short or long term in a large warehouse. Your items are self-contained in a unit, which is security and CCTV protected. You can access your items whenever you need to and take out or put extra items in as you require. You are the one who arranges your items, making sure you have easy access to the things you require most. The only drawback of self-storage is that you are responsible for getting your things there yourself.
- Moving company storage space: if you are using a moving company, often they will store your items for free for a limited period of time. They also usually offer access when you need it and afford the same security options as self-storage. This is usually an economical way to store your items until you need them or are ready to unpack. Do check you are being given the best price by getting separate quotes for moving and storage from different companies.
Protecting your items
Whatever storage method you choose, the safety of your personal belongings is of paramount importance. When storing your items do consider the following:
- Is the space climate controlled? Documents and antique furniture can be damaged if they are too cold, hot or humid. Most storage warehouses are climate controlled but it's important to check this out. Also find out what fire prevention methods they have in place and their protocol during flooding.
- Pack with storage in mind: make sure the boxes are sturdy so that you can stack them once stored. Fill boxes to the top, even if it's with linen, so that they won't collapse.
- Unpack for access: leave small walkways between your items so that you can access what you need to. These walkways will also allow space for air to circulate to prevent humidity building up and causing damage. Store your most valuable items at the back of your lock-up space in case of a break in.
- Storing a refrigerator or freezer: make sure you leave the door ajar to prevent mould from forming inside.
