The Self Storage Centre’s top tips
We’ve been in the self storage business since 1977, so we have a lot of collective experience to share.
First, choose the right facility
Pitfalls to avoid
- Look out for tight or restrictive alleyways or corridors that could make moving your items difficult, or even pose a fire risk.
- Check there are no open ceilings in the storage unit that could lead to contamination or allow rodents to get in.
- Avoid wooden removal crates – these are a fire hazard
Questions to ask
Check the opening hours – can you have access to your belongings at any time?
Can you park right by your storage unit? If not, you’ll end up lugging heavy boxes or furniture around.
Next, pack your belongings
Once you’ve chosen the ideal storage facility, make sure you protect your items so they arrive in pristine condition (and stay that way until you collect them).
- Protect fragile goods such as dishes and glasses in tissue paper or bubble wrap
- Wrap pictures and mirrors in cardboard marked ‘fragile’ and store them upright
- Wrap table legs with bubble wrap
- Use mattress covers (we stock them if you don’t have any) and dust sheets for soft furnishings
- Take furniture apart if possible, bag fixings and label for easy assembly
- Store clothing on hangers in special wardrobe boxes
- Clean garden equipment before storing
- Drain and dry out washing machines to prevent damp in the storage unit
- Leave fridge and freezer doors open for ventilation
Boxes
Use good quality storage boxes, and make sure you label them clearly on the top and sides so you can find everything again! Fill them right up to prevent them tipping or collapsing (if there’s any space left, pack it with paper). You can fill drawers with lighter items to use the space as economically as possible. Pack heavy items in several small boxes so they’re easy to lift.
Finally, transfer everything to your self storage unit
Plan how you’re going to pack the unit before you start. For instance, make sure large items like furniture go at the back so they don’t block access, and keep things you’re likely to need near the doors. Stack similar sized boxes together to make the best use of the space. Store sofas on their base to ensure they stay in shape, and stack chairs seat-to-seat, separated with cloth or paper. Avoid placing heavy items on sofas or mattresses, and for maximum ventilation try not to lean or stack furniture against walls.
The Self Store Centre
Stapleford Estate
Leicestershire
LE14 2SB
telephone: 0800 156 0500
or 07887 882 885
info@selfstorecentre.co.uk