Moving Abroad? Consider These Five Storage Essentials
Are you ready to embark on an adventure abroad but aren't sure how or where to store your belongings?
For many, the first step in any remote travel journey is figuring out what you will do with your furniture and personal items. While this may seem to be a daunting task initially, we've helped hundreds of people find storage solutions that fit their long and short-term needs while abroad.As industry leaders in the self-storage space, we've learned a thing or two about how to store your most valuable possessions safely. With these tips, you'll be ready to pack up and make your travel dreams a reality.
1. Confirm your budget
Self-storage costs much less than residential renting, but you’ll need first to decide what size of unit you need to determine your monthly budget.
Using the unit size guide will give you an idea of what size unit will fit your belongings. For example, if you’re looking to store a small apartment worth of boxes and furniture, you’ll want a 5 x 10 unit. There are many size options to choose from – some units can even fit a full-size car!
If you’re going away for a fixed amount of time, you may take advantage of get one month free deals or monthly discounts.
Also, because you won’t need to visit your unit regularly, consider selecting a self-storage facility outside of the city for even bigger savings.
2. Choose the right boxes and packing supplies
One of the top self-storage tips is to get the right equipment for storing your stuff. You can keep items in bags and old boxes, but it's often better to put them in appropriate containers designed for the job.
Types Of Boxes
Cardboard Boxes: Cardboard storage boxes are cost-effective, durable and can be broken down for future use or easily recycled.
Plastic Bins: plastic boxes with sealable lids are more durable, more easily stackable, and keep moisture out.
Specialty Boxes: These boxes are used for fragile-type belongings so that you can pack sensitive items inside the specialty box.
Sizes
Small-Size Boxes: These are the standard packages with dimensions 16 x 12.5 x 12.5. Small-sized boxes are suitable for packing small items in size and are not bulky in weight.
Medium-Size Boxes: These boxes have a dimension of 18 x 18 x 16 and are used to pack medium-sized items safely.
Large-Size Boxes: Extra-large size boxes carry up to 70 pounds, beneficial for large store items that don't fit in large containers.
Also, consider using packing supplies such as bubble wrap, tissue paper, mattress covers, and of course, investing in a secure padlock for your storage unit for peace of mind.
3.Climate-controlled storage for delicate items
Always consider the season you'll be storing your stuff. Extreme cold and heat can have a severe impact on your stored items. Certain belongings will do better in a climate or temperature-controlled environment.
Here are some reasons you may want to go the climate/temperature-controlled unit route:
• Keeps your clothes and upholstered fabrics smelling fresh
• Keep your wooden furniture in good shape
• Keep your appliances and electronics from moisture damage
• Keep Your books, magazines, and important documents from being damaged.
Pro tip: find a unit with easy drive-up access for those cold, snowy months.
4.Store your car
Storing your car in self-storage is prudent to give you peace of mind while abroad – you don’t want that dreadful phone call while away that your car has been towed or, worse, burglarized.
Follow these steps before storing your car to ensure your vehicle is tip-top, ready to drive shape upon your return: •Fill your car tires with air•Leave a full tank of gas and add fuel stabilizers
•Change the oil•Block your exhaust pipe to avoid bugs and rodents from making themselves at home.
5.What NOT to put in a storage unit
When it comes to self-storage tips and tricks, it's just as important to know what not to store in your unit.
Make sure you don't leave any food or perishables behind to avoid mold, unwanted pests, and damage to any of your belonging.
Also, hazardous or illegal materials should never be stored, including illicit drugs, propane tanks, acid, or anything that can potentially melt, burn, explode, dissolve or freeze.
People and animals are strictly forbidden. Your storage unit is not a place for dwelling, and your animal's health and well-being will be in serious jeopardy – this includes your 8-foot python, which only requires monthly feedings.
Check out our complete naughty list of items not to keep in self-storage.
Renting a storage space is a great idea so that you can have peace of mind while you’re traveling the world. If you are looking for storage space in Burlington, Ontario to store your items, you can reserve a unit online now or give us a call at 1 (905) 637-8085 to learn more.