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How to Prep for Long-term Self Storage | Big Guy Storage
So, you have decided to take the leap and choose long-term self storage. Beyond creating a sense of organization in your home, putting things in storage is a perfect decluttering mechanism. That said, it is a pretty intensive process that might take days. Since that is the case, what is your game plan for your unit’s big “move-in” day? Luckily, we are here to help if you are unsure where to start. Learn more about how to prep for long-term self storage here.
The first thing you need to do before you pack any boxes is to clean each room of your house deeply ahead of time. Go all out, and do not hold anything back. Dust under books on your bookshelf, and wash and dry the clothes you might store that are still hanging in your closet. Dust your statues and other valuables. Declutter as best you can. Do not forget to sweep and mop all your floors. You can even wash down the walls if you feel so inclined. Before you start, you want everything to be clean and fully prepared for packaging.
Storing your valuables and belongings in cardboard boxes is a thing of the past. Cardboard is the inferior choice for a few reasons. Most noticeably, you cannot see inside the box. While they are cheap, they are not instrumental without labeling. They are easily subject to wear and tear, mold, and mildew, and they are not even humidity-proof or air-sealed.
On the other hand, clear containers and plastic bins are sturdy, and some are air-sealed. You also reap the benefits of seeing directly through them, so you know what is inside at a glance. You no longer have to worry about rummaging through a million boxes and hoping you find what you need. You have everything right in front of you.
Your container should be labeled appropriately. Clearly label them on the top of the container and all four sides. You can color code them according to a theme of your choice, whether it is room or type of valuable inside. Perhaps you will want to label one set of containers blue for your jewelry and red for your books. There are endless possibilities, and it is up to you to determine what is best for your needs. Labeling gives you a more granular view of things, helping you tease out what goes where.
Make sure you keep an inventory sheet of all your valuables. A plastic sheet that you can stick on the wall of your container is key for this. Since you have already cleaned both your home and your items ahead of time, we recommend putting a description of the items inside each box and the condition of the items–this helps you with insurance in case anything happens–and label color, as well as the “section” of the unit you put them in. This will help you keep track of things.
If you have not found a facility that suits your needs yet, check out Big Guy Storage. We offer autopay options, top-of-the-line amenities, and more. Contact us today for more details.