5 essential long-term storage tips
There are several instances in which individuals must keep their things for an extended length of time. Occasionally, you may need to store a single object, such as a historic automobile. Occasionally, individuals pack up and store their whole life for reasons such as long-term travel, deployment, or living overseas for an extended period. Whether you’re embarking on a European journey or an RV trip across the United States, the last thing we want you to worry about is your stuff in long-term storage. There are several advantages to renting storage space to protect your belongings for a prolonged period of time. The two primary benefits of self-storage are cost savings and increased peace of mind. However, before you dump everything into the unit and go, take a moment to read these long-term storage tips. Additionally, long-distance movers Chicago are here if you need a moving service as well.
5 essential long-term storage tips
1. Determine how much storage space you require
Consider your needs first when selecting what to do with your belongings while you’re away. Do you require a tiny storage container to house your unattended outdoor equipment while on vacation? Would you rather store all of your possessions in order to avoid paying rent on your apartment? Storage spaces are available in a variety of sizes to accommodate your needs, but the one you rent must make sense. Whatever you need, we at Golan’s Moving and Storage have it ready for you.
2. If required, rent a climate-controlled storage container
Climate-sensitive items, such as electronics or wood furniture, should be housed in climate-controlled storage units. These are slightly more expensive, but the added expense may provide the piece of mind that your valuables will not be exposed to high temperatures while you are gone. If you are planning to be gone for more than one season, it is advised that you store your belongings in a climate-controlled container. Storing a full household’s goods during periods of significant temperature fluctuation and weather has its own set of concerns. Additionally, you can read our article on how to prepare items for long-term storage for more guidance.
3. Travel and storage insurance is a good idea in case something happens while you’re away
Consider purchasing insurance for the stuff you store while you’re away to offer another degree of security. Conduct a review of your existing policy requirements to see whether extra insurance is necessary while renting your apartment. You’ll want to ensure that your insurance includes coverage for items stored off-site and in a long-term storage facility.
4. Have someone check on your stuff every now and again
If you’re moving long-distance, you should appoint a local person who can visit the storage facility on your behalf. For example, if you’re moving from Chicago to New York. If you need something from your storage unit while you’re gone, this individual can mail it to you. He or she might also respond rapidly if a crisis arose. This is crucial when keeping an automobile for a few months. Taking the automobile for a spin can help prevent early damage from sitting.
5. Set up auto-payment for your storage fees
Using your bank’s bill payment option, you can pay your self-storage bill while you’re away from home, or you may set it up for auto-debit. This way, you’ll be able to relax and not have to worry about anything else. For other bills, like Netflix or cable, this is a good rule of thumb to keep in mind while you’re gone. If you use our long-term storage tips, we doubt you’ll have any problems.