Table Of Contents
New to self-storage? Need a quick checklist to get you started? Below you’ll find 15 tasks that’ll make your move as smooth as possible. Not only will they help you save time and money, but they’ll also keep your belongings safe, clean and tidy. And don’t forget to read until the end. We finish with a hot tip that’ll make packing your unit a cinch!
- Make a list of everything you’re planning to store in the unit, including the contents of your boxes. Keep copies at home and in the unit. This will save you time and stress when you’re retrieving an item.
- Consider self-storage insurance for your belongings. It can cost you as little as $2 a month, but it’ll save you thousands in the unlikely event that your facility is damaged by a flood or fire.
- Find out if your storage facility has any special discounts or deals, like merchandise credit or a lowest price guarantee. This could take 10 per cent off the price – or save you a month’s worth of storage costs!
- Keep frequently accessed items at the front of the unit. This will make finding your belongings quick and easy.
- Use sturdy boxes instead of plastic containers or garbage bags. They’re better at keeping moisture and dust off your belongings – and last longer too.
- Choose boxes that are small and uniform in size. They’re easier to lift and keep tidy in your unit.
- Label boxes on all sides so you know exactly what’s inside.
- Use tape to seal your boxes. This stops your contents from falling out or attracting dust. And don’t forget to keep a tape gun in your unit. You’ll need a fresh application each time you open a box.
- Mark delicate items or boxes as ‘fragile’ so you don’t stack anything on top of them.
- Fill your boxes as much as possible (gaps can cause instability), but don’t make them too heavy. This can make the boxes hard to lift – or cause the bottom to break.
- Place the heaviest boxes at the bottom of the stack. They’ll provide a strong base that’ll support the rest of your belongings.
- If you’re storing multiple boxes, consider using shelving. This allows you to access your items without having to unstack all your boxes.
- Dismantle lounges, desks and other furniture to maximise space and prevent breakages. Remember to keep the feet, bolts and screws in a labelled plastic bag.
- If storing fridges, microwaves or dishwashers, keep the doors slightly ajar to prevent the growth of mould and mildew.
- Don’t have time to stack boxes in your unit? Get the removalists to do it for you. They’re trained to pack trucks, so imagine what they can do with your unit. It’ll save you hours of work (and accidental breakages), and you won’t have sore muscles the following day!
Our quick self-storage checklist will help you get the most out of your storage unit. But even if you’re an old hand, it doesn’t hurt to scan our list to make sure you’re doing everything right to keep your belongings in tip-top condition. If you want more self-storage advice, contact our friendly team.
