Long-Term Storage: Packing and Storing Items for Months
Sometimes occasions arise in people’s lives where they’ll need to store personal belongings for a long period of time. Or, maybe you simply want a safe place to keep your items. Whatever the reason may be, packing for long term storage is easy and convenient with XYZ Storage. To ensure your belongings remain intact and in good condition while in long term storage, consider the XYZ Storage approved packing tips below.
Difference Between Short-Term and Long-Term Storage
In general, short-term storage is considered to be anything below three months. Anything longer would be considered long term storage. People usually make frequent trips to and from storage units when using short term storage. But with long term storage, people usually deposit what they want and leave it there until they need it again. For this reason, there are differences between how you should pack for short and long term storage.
Why Customers Choose Long Term Storage with XYZ Storage
Most people use storage for odds and ends that they don’t use on a regular basis. However, sometimes there is a bigger need for storage, especially in the long run. XYZ Storage customers often use long term storage for the following reasons:
- Downsizing your home
- Moving elsewhere for a specific period of time, such as for a job, deployment or travel
- Make space for home renovations or additions
- Keep items and valuables safe
- Decluttering your home
- Major life events, such as weddings or children
XYZ Storage has no hidden fees or deposits, flexible unit set up, convenient indoor drive-throughs, high-end security, truck rentals and offers pay-as-you-go plans. Customers appreciate these features because it makes long term storage convenient and simple!
Packing Tips for Long Term Storage
If you’re preparing to store items for longer-term, don’t underestimate the planning and preparation process! It will make your life much easier if you create a plan and follow it through. XYZ Storage recommends the following packing tips for long term storage.
Do You REALLY Need It?
Before you start to pack, you should take some time to declutter. At this stage, you can donate, sell, or throw out what you don’t want. Of course, this part is easier said than done! It can be difficult to part with things that hold memories or sentimental value. The reality is, the more you keep, the more you’ll have to pack and deal with down the road. Ask yourself if you really need everything you’re packing.
Prepare an Inventory List
Once you’ve decided what you’re going to store, prepare a detailed inventory list. When something is in storage for months or years, it’s easy to forget what exactly you put into storage. When you go to take items out in the future, you’ll find what you’re looking for quickly.
Use the Correct Materials
If an item is not contained in the correct materials, it can become damaged over time. The boxes you choose should be durable to ensure they withstand the test of time. Avoid using old cardboard boxes as they’ll be bent out of shape and possibly contaminated. It’s ideal if you can buy brand new cardboard boxes.
Plastic bins are a good option too because they’re tough, waterproof, transparent, and often stackable. However, plastic can accumulate moisture over time. Ensure that what you store in plastic materials is not sensitive to water damage.
For electronics, wrap them in old clothes or sheets. This will protect the cables and provide a cushion. Furniture should be stored off the ground to allow for airflow. You can achieve this by using a palette. Many factories and other businesses that have a large volume of shipments give them out for free. Finally, anything that is not packed in a box, such as furniture or appliances, should be covered with blankets, large cloths, or plastic sheets.
XYZ Storage offers moving and packing supplies to their customers. If you need help finding the correct materials, XYZ Storage can help you today!
Let the Packing Begin!
Packing and storing can be a stressful and long process. XYZ Storage is here to help. If you have questions about storing your items, reach out to XYZ Storage at any time. Without further ado, let the packing begin!
