Whether you’re downsizing, caught between closing dates, or simply need extra space while settling in, storage becomes an essential part of many household relocations. Finding the right storage solution can transform a potentially chaotic situation into a well-organized transition. Here’s how to make storage work for your specific moving needs.
Assess Your Storage Timeline
Before exploring storage options, determine how long you’ll need extra space. Short-term storage needs might require different solutions than long-term arrangements. If you’re dealing with a gap between move-out and move-in dates, you might only need storage for a few weeks. However, if you’re downsizing significantly, you could require months to decide what to keep permanently.
Understanding your timeline helps you choose between temporary solutions, such as portable storage containers, and more permanent arrangements at traditional storage facilities. It also affects pricing, as many facilities offer discounts for longer commitments.
Choose the Right Type of Storage
Different situations call for different storage approaches. Self-storage units are ideal when you require regular access to your belongings. These facilities offer a variety of unit sizes and often provide climate control for sensitive items, such as electronics or family heirlooms.
Portable storage containers bring convenience directly to your doorstep. Companies deliver the container to your home, where you pack it at your own pace. They then either store it at their facility or deliver it to your new location. This option eliminates the need for multiple trips to a storage facility and reduces the handling of your belongings.
Full-service storage takes convenience a step further. Professional movers pack, transport, and store your items in a warehouse facility. While more expensive, this option works perfectly for valuable items or when you’re too busy to handle the logistics yourself.
Organize Items by Priority
Not everything deserves the same level of storage care. Create three categories: items you’ll need occasionally, seasonal belongings, and things you’re uncertain about keeping. Store frequently needed items in easily accessible spots near the front of your unit.
Seasonal decorations, sporting equipment, and clothing can be stored in the back since you won’t need them immediately. Place questionable items in a separate section—this gives you time to decide their fate without cluttering your new home.
Pack for Easy Retrieval
Smart packing makes storage much more functional. Use clear plastic bins instead of cardboard boxes when possible—they’re waterproof, stackable, and allow you to see the contents without opening them. Label everything clearly, including detailed contents and the room to which each item belongs, in your new home. Check with your professional movers for guidance on storage boxes.
Create a master inventory list with corresponding numbers for each box or bin. Take photos of valuable items before storing them for insurance purposes. This documentation proves invaluable if you need to file a claim or simply want to remember what you stored.
Protect Your Investment
Storage environments can be harsh on belongings. Choose climate-controlled units for anything sensitive to temperature fluctuations—furniture, electronics, documents, and artwork all benefit from stable conditions. Even in climate-controlled spaces, raise items off the floor using pallets or shelving to prevent moisture damage.
Wrap furniture in moving blankets or plastic sheeting to prevent dust accumulation and scratches. Disassemble large furniture pieces to save space and reduce damage risk. Keep all hardware in labeled bags taped to the corresponding furniture piece.
Consider Security Features
Storage facilities vary widely in their security measures. Look for features like gated access, security cameras, individual unit alarms, and on-site management. If you’re storing valuable items, these features justify any additional cost.
Avoid storing highly valuable jewelry, important documents, or irreplaceable family photos in any storage unit. Keep these items with you or in a bank safety deposit box. Insurance policies have limits, and some items simply can’t be replaced.
Storage Made Simple
The proper storage solution eliminates the pressure to make hasty decisions about your belongings while providing the flexibility to settle into your new home comfortably. By matching your storage choice to your specific timeline, access needs, and budget, you create breathing room that makes the entire moving process more manageable.
McLaughlin is your solution for storage needs, whether you’re moving, renovating, or simply require extra space for your belongings. We offer flexible pickup and delivery options, catering to both short-term and long-term needs. Our priority is to work with your schedule while ensuring all your items are handled with the utmost care, guaranteeing they are returned in their original condition. Contact us today to discuss how storage can simplify your relocation.