Self-storage is a fantastic solution if you’re moving to a new home, travelling around the globe, or simply looking to declutter your living space. However, proper preparation is key to ensuring your belongings remain safe, organised, and in optimal condition during their time in storage.
Whether you’re a first-time self-storer or a seasoned pro, we’re here to provide a comprehensive guide to help you prepare your belongings effectively. By following our storage expert’s recommendations, we're certain that you’ll be well-equipped to protect your cherished possessions and ensure easy access whenever you need them.
Preparing your belongings before storage is a crucial step that should not be overlooked, as you ensure their safety, organisation, and optimal condition during their time in storage.
First and foremost, preparation helps protect your belongings from potential damage during transportation and while in storage. Properly packing and securing items reduces the risk of breakage, scratches, or other forms of damage.
In addition, organising your belongings before storage allows for easy access and retrieval when needed, saving you time and effort in the long run. If you need an item from your storage unit, the last thing you want is to be faced with unlabelled boxes, folders placed around with no rhyme or reason and no space to look for anything. So, by following the necessary preparation steps, you can have peace of mind knowing that your cherished possessions are well-protected and readily accessible whenever you require them.
Understanding your requirements in advance will save you time, effort, and potential headaches down the line. So, begin by taking inventory of the items you plan to store. Then, categorise them based on size, fragility, and frequency of use to help determine the unit size you’ll need. Consider factors such as furniture, appliances, and box size.
Next, estimate the duration of storage. If you’re storing items for a short period, you might prioritise easy access and frequent retrieval. However, focus on maximising space efficiency and implementing proper organisation strategies for long-term storage. Remember, we offer flexible solutions at Kangaroo Self Storage, so you can stay for as long as you need and extend your contract whenever required.
By thoroughly assessing your storage needs, you can select the right storage unit, optimise space utilisation, and ensure a smooth and successful self-storage experience.
When it comes to actually packing your belongings, gathering the proper supplies beforehand is essential. Acquire an ample supply of sturdy boxes in various sizes, bubble wrap, packing tape, labels, and markers. Having more supplies than you think you’ll need is best, as proper packing is crucial for protecting your belongings. Don’t forget; you can pick up all the supplies you’ll need at our Box Shop located at all our self-storage sites or online, whichever is easiest for you.
Once you have your boxes and packing materials, start packing non-essential items first, leaving frequently used items for the end. Remember to label each box with its contents clearly, and even consider creating an inventory list to keep track of everything you’ve packed.
Disassembling large furniture items can be highly beneficial when preparing your belongings for self-storage. It not only optimises the use of space within your storage unit but also reduces the risk of damage during transit and makes the overall moving process smoother.
So, if possible, take apart these items to save space and make them more manageable to transport. Start by carefully removing screws, bolts, and other small parts, ensuring they don’t get lost in the process. Place these items in labelled bags and securely attach them to the corresponding furniture piece to keep everything organised. This way, when you need to reassemble the furniture later, you’ll have all the necessary components readily available.
To protect delicate and breakable items during self-storage, it is crucial to wrap them individually with protective materials such as bubble wrap or packing paper. This extra layer of cushioning helps minimise the risk of damage caused by impacts or vibrations.
In addition, it is important to fill any empty spaces within the boxes to prevent items from shifting during transit. Utilising packing peanuts or crumpled paper as filler materials helps keep the items secure and immobilised within the box. This precautionary measure reduces the likelihood of items colliding and potentially breaking.
When it comes to maximising space and accessibility to your self-storage unit, all the above points should be considered. But, on top of this, looking at how you fill your unit is key.
Remember to stack items strategically, placing heavier ones at the bottom and fragile items towards the top. Similarly, as mentioned, place items you’re less likely to need at the bottom or the back so you can easily reach the things you’ll need.
Regularly review and reorganise your unit as your storage needs change, and don’t forget we’re completely flexible at Kangaroo Self Storage. If you need more space, and we have the units available, we’re more than happy to help you move your items over to a roomier unit.
We offer self-storage across Scotland and North West England, including:
Explore our website or get a quote online for more information.
