Temporary storage units & Short term Storage Tips
Even though your only planing to use temporary storage facility we still highly recommend the below:
Insurance coverage
When choosing a storage facility, be sure to know their policy for theft, fire, water intrusion, pest infestation, or other occurrences that may cause loss or damage to your properties. Often, operators will limit their liability so it might be a good idea to check your options for property insurance.
Your home insurance provider may have a policy that covers items in storage. Self-storage facilities may also provide the insurance themselves. Monthly premium may cost as low as $1 per $1,000 worth of property. However, rates may vary depending on location and the extent of coverage you want to have.
Things to do before signing up a storage contract
- Check a few units to see the quality of the storage crates
- Inspect the facility to make sure it is dry, secure, and fire-safe
- If you intend to rent a higher-floor unit, make sure that there is no gap on the floor which may make forklift access difficult
- Shop around to get the best deals on self-storage. Some providers within the same area may offer different rates for equivalent services. Use our self-storage quote calculator to help you get the best deals at the most ideal location
Packing tips
- Inventorise all items you are storing
- Load bigger and heavier items at the bottom
- You can save on wrapping materials by using old blankets, bubble wraps, and sheets to pad and wrap your belongings
- Before packing fridges and freezers, make sure they are empty, clean, and dry
- Ideally, fridges and freezers should be stored with the door slightly ajar to prevent mildew
- Wrap all fragile items in a separate box and make sure they are clearly marked “fragile.”
- Empty spaces between breakables should be filled in with paper
- Photo frames and mirrors should be wrapped in cartons or cardboard
- Do not place anything heavy on top of fragile items
- It’s best to use original boxes for packing electronics
- If the original boxes are not available, ask your storage provider if they have specialty boxes for electronics
- Wipe metal items with an oil-dipped rag or any anti-rust materials before storing
- If you plan to store lawn mowers or any petrol-driven machinery, it is recommended that it is drained of all fuel
- Put adequate space between items to allow you access later on
Items not allowed in storage facilities
- Firearms, munitions, or explosives
- Fuel cans, full or empty
- Any flammable material
- Plants (or any living thing)
- Food, perishable goods, or anything that may attract vermins
- Any item that may produce odor
- Waste or hazardous items of any kind
- Any illegal or stolen item
- Chlorine, acids, and ny environmentally harmful material
- Any item that may be harmful to your own or other people’s property
Consult your self storage provider if you questions about packing materials and materials that may not be allowed into storage.