How to protect items in storage units

Storing your items securely is not just about keeping them safe; it's about preserving the memories, their sentimental value and their longevity. Whether you're storing family heirlooms, some cherished mementoes from your childhood or expensive furniture you might need later on, making sure you protect your items in storage is key. 

In this post, we'll delve into essential tips to help you protect items while they're in storage.

Choose the right storage unit

When selecting a storage unit, prioritise finding one that aligns with your specific needs. Consider the size of the unit in relation to the volume of items you plan to store to avoid overcrowding or leaving items vulnerable. 

Security is paramount, so choose a facility with robust features such as surveillance cameras and gated access to deter theft. The unit should also be well maintained and clean to minimise the risk of environmental factors that could harm your belongings. 

Use proper packing materials 

Use high-quality packing materials to protect fragile items from breakage during transit and storage. Here's a list of essential packing materials you'll need for moving your things into storage:

• Boxes: Choose sturdy, durable boxes in various sizes to accommodate different items.
• Packing tape: Invest in high-quality packing tape to securely seal boxes.
• Bubble wrap: Protect fragile items such as glassware, dishes and electronics with bubble wrap.
• Packing paper: Use packing paper to wrap delicate items and fill empty spaces in boxes to prevent shifting.
• Packing peanuts or foam: Provide cushioning for fragile items and fill empty spaces in boxes to minimise movement. 
• Furniture covers: Use plastic or fabric covers to protect furniture from dust, dirt and scratches.
• Mattress covers: Keep mattresses and box springs clean and protected from dust and moisture with specially designed covers.
• Dust covers: Use plastic dust covers for items that are susceptible to dust accumulation, such as electronics or artwork.
• Labels and markers: Label boxes with their contents and room destination for easy identification.
• Furniture blankets: Wrap large furniture pieces in blankets to prevent scratches and damage during transport and storage.
• Stretch wrap: Securely wrap furniture and bulky items to protect them from dust and scratches.
• Scissors and box cutters: Have these handy for cutting tape, bubble wrap and packing paper.
• Moving blankets: Use moving blankets to protect furniture, appliances and other large items from damage during transport and storage.

Label and organise properly 

When preparing to move your belongings into storage, effective organisation is key. Start by labelling boxes clearly with their contents and marking fragile items to prevent mishandling. This helps you keep track of what's inside each box and alerts movers to handle delicate items with care. 

Strategically organise your storage unit by placing frequently accessed items near the front for easy retrieval. By doing so, you can avoid the hassle of digging through boxes to find essential items later on.

Don’t overload boxes 

When it comes to packing your belongings for storage, adhering to the principle of ‘less is more’ can make a significant difference in their preservation. Instead of cramming belongings into fewer boxes, opt for using more boxes to distribute weight and prevent damage. Overstuffing boxes can lead to structural integrity issues, making them prone to collapsing or tearing during transport or storage. 

Elevate items off the ground 

Elevate your items off the floor using pallets or shelving to avoid direct contact. This simple step protects against moisture and potential flooding, safeguarding your belongings from damage.

Insurance coverage

Invest in insurance coverage for added peace of mind. While storage facilities typically have security measures in place, insurance can protect your items against unforeseen events like theft, fire or natural disasters.

From choosing the right unit to implementing proper packing techniques and security measures, taking proactive steps can help preserve your belongings for years to come. Remember, investing time and effort into protecting your items now can save you from potential headaches down the line.

Use Stor-Age for self storage

At Stor-Age, your peace of mind is our top priority. With state-of-the-art security features including 24/7 CCTV surveillance, gated access and individually alarmed units, your belongings are in the safest hands. Plus, our clean and well-maintained facilities offer the perfect environment for long-term storage of your precious belongings. 
Trust Stor-Age to keep your items safe and secure today! Get a quote now!