Everyone sometimes needs to rely on self-storage for different reasons. Maybe you are in transition between cities and need a temporary place to store your belongings. Or you are packing for long-term storage because you need an extension of your closets at home. Many people still rotate their belongings seasonally, and for that purpose, they rent a storage facility as a way to stay organized. Leaving your books in storage for a month while you settle in your new home is one thing. However, leaving a trunk full of books for years is quite another. Especially if you have special volumes that require a little extra care. Short-term storage packing is different from long-term storage packing, and Greenwich Village movers know all the tips and tricks so you can load everything up and save time, money, and avoid damaged goods.
Long-term storage
Long-term storage is practical when you need to keep items safely stowed for longer than three months. Here are a few efficient tips for packing for long-term storage:
- Avoid packing anything in plastic bags. Although it might seem like plastic is thoroughly efficient against water damage than boxes, the opposite is true. Plastic traps humidity and moisture and boosts the mildew/mold process.
- Buy sturdy boxes. Although you can recycle some free boxes, it’s actually best to purchase boxes that are similar in size and of good quality. Moving boxes are easier to stack and access—and your items will be safer over the long term.
- Treat fragile items with proper care. You should wrap each fragile object separately in bubble wrapping and/or newspaper. Always mark their boxes accordingly.
- Leave the doors slightly open and the cords carefully wrapped. Mold brought in on appliances will spread to other items in storage facilities in Manhattan.
- Vacuum-sealed bags are great for storing a wardrobe or any valuable textiles. They are great at protecting against damages. If you’ll be keeping clothes in storage, you may want to invest in these.
- When packing for long-term appliance storage, always wipe down the interiors well. You should also treat them with baking soda or bleach.
- Place boxes and containers on pallets. You can get pallets for free from home improvement stores. Getting appliances and furniture off the ground helps prevent damages and keeps the air moving.
Use a climate-controlled storage unit if necessary
Electronics or wood furniture are sensitive items and should be stored in a climate-controlled unit. Climate controlled storage units do cost a little more, but a few extra bucks may bring peace of mind knowing your belongings won’t suffer from extreme temperatures while you’re away. Especially when you are storing items for more than one season, it’s recommended to rent a climate-controlled unit. Bonus tip: keeping an inventory using a mobile moving app or a checklist can help prevent loss and ensure that each box is where it’s supposed to be.
