Moving is a stressful situation in any context, but you have yet another factor to consider if you need to store your belongings for a time in the process. Finding the ideal storage facility is more involved than putting everything you own in a container and sticking it in the first standard storage unit you stumble across.
Compare potential storage units.
As soon as you realize you’ll need a storage facility, begin comparing your options. Some of your top considerations should be the types of items you’re storing, the length of time they’ll be in storage, and the budget you’re working with. Suppose you’re storing items like artwork, clothing or other fabric, antiques, musical instruments, documents, or photos. In that case, you’ll want to find climate controlled storage units in your target area and price range. That way, the storage space’s climate control can protect your valuables from extreme temperatures and humidity levels.
Delay purchases whenever you’re able.
If you’re planning specific purchases for your new home, consider whether you can pick up some of those new additions once your move is complete. Rather than trying to navigate a heavy planter or flower pot, stressing your plant with location, temperature, and humidity changes along the way, use a site like https://potsplantersandmore.com/ to order plants for your new house, to be delivered directly there. This is a great way to reduce the number of items you need to move while giving you something to look forward to after the excitement of relocating.
Consider each item separately.
As you’re contemplating your storage options, take some time to consider each of your belongings independently. Suppose only a few items need temperature or humidity control. In that case, you may be able to save money by choosing a smaller storage unit size for those valuable items and putting others in a more budget-friendly storage space. Similarly, pay attention to the pieces you’re storing in a particular container. Durable items may hold up fine in a packed box, but fragile pieces might be better mixed with clothing or other soft fabrics.
Talk to your movers.
Whether you’ve hired professional movers or are recruiting friends and family, be sure to communicate any particular storage needs. If you have a fragile planter that needs to be moved with particular care, give them an adequate warning. If you have wood furniture set aside for outdoor use, let them know that those pieces don’t need to be moved indoors. Or, if you’ll be moving items to a self-storage unit rather than your new home, make sure it’s moved separately or before your moving team arrives.
Purge unnecessary belongings.
As you’re packing your items for storage or moving directly, it can be tempting to postpone any decluttering until after you’re finished with the stress of your move. By taking time to sort through your belongings and get rid of those that don’t spark joy or serve you somehow, you’ll not just minimize the items you need to store and move but set yourself up for organizational success in your new home over time.
The moving process is stressful in and of itself, but your storage unit considerations don’t have to be another source of anxiety. Get rid of items you don’t need or want and have items shipped to your new home when possible—there’s almost always a low-cost or free shipping option you can utilize. Pay attention to your individual items and their storage needs, and communicate those requirements to the people helping you move or transport your belongings to your storage unit. Pack your items carefully for transportation, and move them into long-term storage as necessary. Then, rest assured that your storage options will keep your valuables safe.
