The Ultimate “Moving Into Your Storage Unit” Checklist
Are you moving your items into an self storage unit? The best way to protect your belongings throughout their time in storage is to take precautions throughout every step of the packing and moving process. When you know how to properly care for your items going into storage, you can expect the best results when you return to them. Check out South End Self-Storage’s ultimate moving checklist for tips on how to keep your items in premier condition.
The Ultimate Checklist for Moving Into Your Storage Unit
1. Choosing the Right Storage Unit
Before you start packing, select the appropriate storage unit size based on your needs. Consider the amount of items you have, their sizes, and how you plan to organize them within the unit. Utilize online tools like our storage calculator to make an informed decision. Remember, a unit too small will cramp your belongings, while too large of a unit means you’re paying for space you don’t need.
2. Gathering Necessary Supplies
Arm yourself with all the packing essentials: sturdy boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, markers, and furniture covers. Quality packing materials protect your items from damage and dust. Don’t forget to label each box with a brief description of its contents for easy identification. Stop into our office on South Boulevard in Charlotte to stock up on supplies!
3. Prepping Your Items for Storage
Clean all items before storing them. Electronics should be dust-free, clothing washed, and furniture wiped down. This step is vital to prevent dust accumulation and keep pests at bay. Disassemble large furniture pieces to save space and wrap fragile items carefully.
4. Creating an Inventory
Keep a detailed list of all items you’re storing. This inventory aids in keeping track of your belongings and is incredibly useful when you need to find something quickly. It also serves as a record for insurance purposes.
5. Strategically Loading Your Storage Unit
Start by placing heavier and less frequently used items at the back. Then, layer in the lighter, more frequently used items toward the front. Create an aisle in the middle for easy access to all items. Be mindful of leaving some air space around the perimeter for ventilation.
6. Protecting Fragile Items
Wrap delicate items like glassware and electronics in bubble wrap or packing paper. Store them in clearly marked boxes and place them on top of heavier, sturdier items to prevent crushing.
7. Utilizing Vertical Space
Make the most of your unit’s height by stacking boxes. Ensure that heavier boxes are at the bottom to prevent toppling. Shelves can also be a great addition to keep things organized and easily accessible.
8. Final Checks and Security
Once everything is in, do a final walk-through to make sure everything is secure and well-organized. Lock your unit with a robust, weather-resistant lock. Check if your insurance covers stored items or if you need additional coverage.
9. Regular Visits
Periodically check your storage unit. This helps you to ensure that everything remains in good condition and gives you a chance to reorganize if necessary. It also prevents the surprise of discovering an issue too late.
Store with Peace of Mind When You Rent with South End Self-Storage
Quality temperature-controlled storage space is just a few clicks away. At South End Self-Storage, our focus is on the security of your items and your peace of mind. Rest easy knowing you are storing a space that is protected under the watch of 24/7 recording cameras and monitoring staff. Since our entrances require keypad access, only South End Self-Storage tenants and staff are able to enter the premises, keeping the facility and your items free from potential damages.
Ready to relieve yourself from extra clutter and hand off your load to the professionals? Look through our available self storage units and parking spaces to find a solution to fit your budget!
Katie Mest
About the Author: Katie Mest is a Content Marketing Specialist at Storage Asset Management in York, PA. She specializes in writing about the self storage industry, including storage tips and helpful resources. Outside of work, Katie enjoys spending time exploring the outdoors and snuggling in with a crochet project and her cat, Billie.
