It is likely that most of us will, at some stage, require additional storage space to where we live or work – it may be preparing for a house or office move, perhaps storing furniture or personal items that we no longer use daily, but may need again in the future, or perhaps temporary storage if you are to spend a substantial period away from your home.
Whatever the reason, using personal self-storage for the first time may appear a little intimidating – but it needn’t be! There are professional facilities near you that offer short or long-term, safe and affordable storage for any number of different items.
Here are some of the most important things to consider when choosing a self-storage unit:
Are you renting the right sized space?
The first thing to consider is how much space you actually need for the things you want to store. Consider whether the items you’ve currently identified for storage are ALL you are likely to want the space for – you may want to add to them over the period of storage you require, so, if that’s a possibility, then factor that into your calculations.
If that is not likely to be the case, then calculate the space you need for your already identified storage objects only – you don’t want to be paying for space that you don’t use!
Prepare correctly and don’t overlook any items
Plan ahead – make a definitive list of all of the identified storage items and refer to it frequently throughout the process – it is easy and commonplace to forget, or overlook, a few items. An accurate inventory is vital both in the initial storage process, and again when retrieving the items at the end of the storage period. This list will ensure that nothing gets initially left out or left behind at the later stage.
Compose a plan and pack efficiently
Having identified the correct size and style of your personal self-storage facility, then work out how best to store the items. Compose a plan of your storage unit, and how best your identified items will fit into the space. Loading your self-storage space haphazardly will both waste space and increase the risk of damage to potentially valuable items.
Consider these aspects:
- Choose appropriate storage containers and clearly label every box before stacking them in an orderly fashion.
- Ensure that the heavier items are stacked on the bottom of any piles – this provides a better base for the lighter items and will make them easier, and safer, to move when the time comes.
- Protect any furniture with an appropriate covering (blankets, bubble wrap or such) and load those into the storage space first to act as a platform for lighter and more ‘delicate’ items.
- If you are storing furniture items that have storage compartments within themselves, then use this space accordingly to store smaller items.
- Ensure you organise your personal self-storage space to allow movement about your unit and provide the best access to your stored goods.
Consider if you can do the moving yourself
Consider whether you can perform the packing and moving yourself, or whether you will need to enlist some help in these matters. Depending on the items you need to store, both in size and number, you may need to organise a van and/or manual help. Whether you are enlisting the help of family, friends or professional removal staff, then you will need to organise advance warning and give reasonable notice in regard to both people and potential vehicle use.
Consider the cost of your storage
The cheapest option is not always the best option – consider the facilities offered at your chosen storage units – look for storage facilities that provide professional standards in regard to dryness, security, cleanliness and maintenance – a dirty, damp or poorly maintained facility may result in damage to your treasured possessions!
Chelsea Self Storage
Chelsea Self Storage we have 30 years experience in providing the ideal storage solutions for businesses. We understand the optimal storage methods for archived documents and records and can help you calculate the right size of unit you’ll need to maximise your budget. With some of the lowest competitive rates in the capital, we’re convinced that we can offer a file management solution that’s just right for your business.
We are conveniently located near Kensington, a short walk from the Kings Road in Fulham, and have satisfied clients right across London who can testify to our capability and customer service.
If you need to reclaim valuable office storage space then contact us today and we’ll be happy to help you archive your records safely and securely.
