How to safely store your winter clothes this summer.

How to safely store your winter clothes this summer.

Are your wardrobes bulging with so many clothes you can’t always find what you’re looking for? Do you seem to only wear half of what’s in there in any given season? Are you returning home from university over summer but don’t fancy taking all of your things? If this is the case, you should consider putting some of your winter clothes (or belongings) in storage during the summer months and vice versa. Sound like a good idea? Here’s everything you need to know about how to store your winter clothes this summer.

If you follow these six steps your clothing will still look as good as new when you take it out again. Here’s how to store clothes in storage the right way!

 

1. Wash everything
   The first step in packing clothes for storage is to wash them. Carefully inspect each item looking for stains and dirt and make sure they’re removed before storing your clothes.If you pack dirty clothes, chances are any stains or odours on the items will settle in over time and you might never be able to get them out! What’s more, dirty clothes are also more likely to attract insects and other vermin.
2. Don’t vacuum seal
   This step might seem surprising as there is a lot of hype about storing clothes in vacuum-sealed bags as it is a great space saver. However, the truth is, vacuum sealing is only good for your clothes if you’re storing it for a few weeks, not months.If you’re putting your clothes in storage for a couple of months the lack of air inside a vacuum bag can cause the fibres in your clothes to compress, ruining their shape and fit.
3. Pack them in an appropriate plastic container
   The best way to pack your clothes for long-term storage is in a plastic container with a clip-on lid. These will protect your clothes from moisture, dust, mould and mildew. For extra protection, you can line the inside of the container with a clean cotton sheet.
4. Add cedar balls
   When considering how to store clothes in storage, you might be tempted to add mothballs to your storage container, but, as you know, they smell horrible and can be potentially dangerous if found by children or pets. A better option is to use natural cedar balls. Wooden cedar balls are long-lasting, have a pleasant smell and will protect your clothes against pests!
5. Opt for a professional storage unit
   When storing your clothes, a clean, cool, dark and dry storage unit is always best. The easiest way to ensure your storage unit meets all of these requirements is to go with a professional storage company. The facilities they are able to provide are far superior to a damp garage or garden shed when it comes to keeping your clothing safe.
6. Check on your items regularly
   If you are planning to leave clothes in storage for long periods of time – if you are storing baby clothes until you have another child, for example – you should check on the status of your storage boxes every six months or so. This will enable you to detect any potential issues and prevent your clothes from getting ruined.

 

Ready to store your clothes? 

Now that you know all about packing clothes for storage all that’s left to do is to find a suitable, convenient self-storage unit. Contact us at Self Store & More 7 days a week to find out how we can help. We’ll even come and collect direct from your door to save you time, money and effort.

 

 

 

Benefits of short term storage

Short term self-storage is a great option if you’re looking for a way of decluttering your home or workspace for a few days or weeks. Unlike a lot of storage companies, we don’t ask for a minimum rental period or notice period to vacate so, the day you vacate the unit is the day your rent stops – simple. This means you don’t have to second guess when to give the 7 day notice period a lot of storage providers ask for and you won’t be left paying for a unit when it’s no longer needed.

Here are some reasons when and why you might need to use short term storage.

Selling your home

In today’s housing market, it’s not always possible to sell your home and move straight into your new one. Rather than risk losing a buyer while you sort out your purchase, you can use short term self-storage to keep all of your belongings safe and in one place (rather than in friends’ garages) while you rent or stay with family for a few weeks until you’ve found and completed your new house purchase.

Moving into a new home

Unless you’re moving into a new-build, consider taking just the basics in with you on moving day, and have the rest delivered directly to your short term storage unit. Cleaning, decorating and fitting new carpets will be much easier without having to move all of your furniture from room to room!

During renovations at work or home

These are stressful enough. You do not need the added issue of making sure that none of your stuff gets splashed with paint, covered with dust or otherwise wrecked by builders, plasterers, decorators or errant spouses who are “trying to help”.

Storing garden furniture and tools

If left outside over winter, your garden furniture may well need a lot of TLC before you can use it again in the spring. You might also be worried about leaving your tools in a shed during the dark winter months. Tools and furniture can all be kept clean, dry and safe in a storage unit over winter, ready to be used again in the spring.

Renting out a room or house

When Government guidelines allow us again, AirBnB and similar sites are a popular way for homeowners to make a bit of extra income by renting out a room or the entire house. Most guests don’t like it if there’s a lot of personal belongings around the home, so empty your wardrobes and decant your clothes and other items into your storage unit for the short term until your house is your own again.

Storing student belongings

Sadly, burglars know that student digs are often empty for long periods over Christmas, Easter and summer holidays, and thefts from those properties tend to skyrocket over those periods. You can rent a self-storage unit for a week or longer over the holidays and keep your valuables safe, rather than leaving it vulnerable. Even if you bring it all ‘home’ with you, will there be sufficient room to store it over the holiday period? Using a local self storage provider near to your family home will mean you or someone else are not tripping over books, bags or bikes with the likelihood of damage occurring…. and if you need something from storage, it’s easy to visit and collect what you need.

Clearing the spare room

If you normally use your spare room as a bit of a dumping ground, home gym or office, you might need to clear it out to use it as a bedroom now and then – over Christmas, say, or if you have children at university who want to come home in the holidays.

Start-up business storage

Is your business reaching the point where you need to store stock or equipment rather than keep trying to find space for it around the house? Try short term storage and see if flexible self-storage might be the best use of your resources in the longer term, or just as a stopgap until you can sort a more permanent solution as your business grows.

Life changes

Divorce, downsizing, bereavement and moving in with a partner are all times when you might find that you have more belongings than you have room for. They’re also times when long term decisions are not a wise idea, because you’re still finding your feet after a major life event (good or bad). Short term storage is a good solution for keeping all of your belongings safe without risking throwing away things you’ll use again.

If we at Self Store & More can be of any help with finding the right storage solution to suit your short term needs then please don’t hesitate to contact us on the telephone (01600 735001 or 01594 840860), by email [email protected] or by using our website contact form.

Simple Steps to Winter Storage

With the arrival of our winter weather, many of your possessions will soon become redundant, with many hibernating in your garage, attic or spare room until winter is over. There are many self storage companies that can keep your summer items safe and secure in easy to access storage facilities, ensuring that they are immediately ready to use at the first hint of summer.

Having seasonal items taking up room in your house can also leave you and your living space a little cramped, particularly during the winter months when most of your living is done inside. Customers who use seasonal self-storage free up valuable space for those winter essentials when the garden shed, attic or garage is already full.

Creating space in your home by using a secure self storage facility can be a stress saver throughout the winter months but, before you do, why not follow these simple steps.

How to determine what summer items to store.

Before you can begin, you must first determine what stays and what goes into seasonal storage. Ask yourself questions, such as…

• Will I use this item in Autumn or Winter?
• Have I actually used this item this summer or is it time to sell? After all, why pay to store something you never use (unless it’s an heirloom or something a family member will need in the near future).
• For an item you may need when the weather begins to get better, but don’t have room for at home, set it at the front of your storage unit for easy access.

Some summer items to consider putting into seasonal storage, include:

• Barbeque (no gas bottles) and outdoor furniture
• Summer sports equipment
• Gardening equipment or tools
• Summer clothing and suitcases (if no more holidays are planned)
• Toys, bikes and outdoor play equipment

Benefits of a seasonal storage swap

If you store in a self storage facility, you can swap your seasonal items in and out with ease.

Other benefits to seasonal storage include:
Extra room – No one likes clutter in their home – especially when it extends to the spare room, garages and outdoor areas. Should our Government guidelines allow us to this year – Having family stay over the holiday periods also means space at home is of a premium. Why struggle to accommodate when a quick and easy declutter can take away some of the stress.
Clean, dry Storage – Storing items in garden sheds, garages or under tarpaulin during the winter months can affect the condition of your belongings over time. With no warm sunshine to help dry them out, water, mould and mildew can wreak havoc on your belongings during the rainy season.

Secure – Storing your belongings in the garden shed, garage or under cover may give you the space you need inside your home but are they secure? A professional self storage company will have numerous security measures in place such as on-site security, CCTV, fire and intruder alarm systems with 24/7 monitoring to provide the best protection and peace of mind you and your belongings deserve.

If you need any help or advice with your self storage requirements then please don’t hesitate to contact us 7 days a week to suit your needs.

Why do People use Self Storage?

As space is becoming a problem for many households and businesses, self storage has become the first choice for many. At some point, many of us will need a self storage unit whether it’s for home or business. The fact that it’s safe, convenient, reliable and affordable makes it even more attractive.

While there are several reasons why people use self storage, the most common include moving home or office, renovating, storing collectables, archiving and stock storage. It is even used by students and those who travel extensively as a safe haven for their belongings.

Most Common Reasons People Use Self Storage?

Not everyone has the luxury of having enough space at home to keep all of our belongings safe. This is particularly the case if it involves larger items that fill up open space very quickly. From small to medium businesses, households, students and travellers, here are some of the most common reasons why people use self storage and why you should consider it too.

Home Clear Out

We are connected to our stuff whether we like to admit it or not. People, in general, are reluctant to get rid of things even if they no longer use it and that’s where a home clear out is so important. Along with self storage, you can even keep things “just in case” like furniture or toys to help the kids when they eventually enter the expensive housing market.

Moving House

People often have to find a temporary residence when moving to a new house which means space could be an issue. If there’s nowhere to safely store your furniture, clothes, sporting equipment and garden tools while waiting for the new property to become available, self storage is the answer. It can help keep you organised by storing things temporarily and simply collecting it when everything is ready. It certainly beats the alternative of selling old stuff and buying everything new.

Home Renovations

With the rise in housing costs, many people are renovating instead of moving as it is more affordable. While it may be cheaper, renovations and extensions can be time-consuming but you can always rely on self storage to keep things safe while builders are in-and-out. It’s the ideal solution to store your valuables, keep the house clear of clutter and worker safety.

Downsizing Home Or Moving To A Smaller Office

Self storage is also widely used when moving into a smaller home or office space. If there are things you cannot take with to the new premises, keep them in self storage until a later date. You never know what will happen as you may want to relocate where the extra furniture or equipment could come in handy.

Baby On The Way

A baby can change all the dynamics of your current living situation as it often requires completely clearing out a room or making the home safer. This means packing away all the old stuff to make space for the cot and other baby essentials. If you have a spare bed that is ‘baby-ready’, simply put in storage along with the desk, chest of drawers and cabinets. When the little one turns 3 or so, you can collect and refurbish the room accordingly.

Students Going Home For The Holidays

Students will inevitably collect excess items when they are at university. Things like television, computer, sofa and bed to mention a few. If it’s not their final year and summer holidays are around the corner, they will not bring everything home just to take it all back the next term. If that is the case, consider renting a storage unit close to your university accommodation. It is a very small price to pay for absolute convenience and peace of mind over the summer holidays.

Taking A Gap Year

Today, many students take a gap year and travel before they enter the world of adulthood and work. Self storage is perfect for this as there may not be enough room at mum and dad’s place for all the extra stuff. This means they have nowhere to store their belongings from the time they leave university until they get back and move into their own place.

Working Abroad

For those who have been offered the opportunity to work abroad on an extended contract, look no further than a self storage unit. If you have a property, you will likely rent it out for additional passive income until you return and would prefer to keep your valuables safe.

Empty Nesters

There comes a time when all the kids have left, either for university or moving into their own place. Things change after every move as the eldest who leaves at 18 didn’t take his bed and desk which the youngest of 12 could use one day. To save space until then, or if you want to turn the newly emptied room into a study or crafts room, put everything in storage. Long-term storage contracts are typically cheaper than short-term agreements so you’ll save even more.

Garden Furniture, Tools & Equipment

Seasons dictate the type of garden furniture, equipment and tools we use and knowing what to do with everything will help. Summer furniture, toys and tools can go into the shed or garage but space could be limited thanks to the new table or lounger you bought. Considering that you are not going to use any of these items for a few months, why not put it all into self storage?

A Change In Relationship Status

A breakup or divorce is never a nice experience especially when partners were living together. One, or both, has to move out which means making arrangements to store their belongings until life gets back to normal.

Family Bereavement

Nobody likes talking about it but the sad fact is that many people will inherit a home with all its contents following a family bereavement. While some may be lucky enough to hold onto everything, others need to distribute the inheritance or pay the associated costs which means the house must be sold. Secure storage may not be a top priority at this point but it can really help when dealing with the aftermath of losing a relative or partner.

What About Business Storage?

We’ve already mentioned that businesses use self storage when they downsize but what are the other reasons? Safe and accessible business storage is essential and we are not talking about keeping files in lofts or garages either. Documents, stock, equipment and even vehicles need a safe place without taking up all the room at the office.

Fact is, a business storage unit can benefit all types of companies as it helps to minimise overheads. After all, a self storage unit with all the necessary room is much more affordable than renting additional warehouse space.

How Do Companies Use Business Storage?

Storage units can help ease some of the stresses that accompany a growing business. Truth is, retail business owners, artisans, e-commerce brands and other entrepreneurs can greatly benefit. Here’s a quick look at the types of businesses that use self storage.

• Publishers and Book Dealers
• Construction, Landscaping, Roofing and Painting Companies
• Electricians and Plumbers
• Retail and E-commerce Businesses
• Restaurants and Catering Companies
• Sales and Servicing Businesses

If you need any advice on how self storage can help you at home or work then please do not hesitate to contact us by phone, email, website enquiry form or Facebook Messenger.

We’re available 7 days a week.

Self Storage Hints and Tips – A Short Guide

PACK YOUR ITEMS WELL

• Using proper packing materials such as corrugated boxes, bubble wrap, packing tape, air pillows etc will maintain and protect your goods whilst in transit and storage.
• Fill boxes to capacity, and pack heavier items into smaller boxes. Partially filled boxes and cartons may tip over or collapse.
• Pack books flat, not on their spines.
• Label or number your boxes, this makes unpacking easier when your self storage needs are over. Not to mention that finding that particular box in your room will not be such a daunting task!
• Make a comprehensive list of your stored items and keep this safely at home
• Remove any batteries
• Use wardrobe boxes to help your clothes keep their shape
• Remove all moisture from any item going into storage. Make sure fridges and freezers are fully defrosted

PLAN YOUR STORAGE SPACE

• Put the boxes or items that you will need to get to the most often, near the front
• Stack similar sized boxes together to maximise space
• Stack chairs seat to seat with a protective layer between them
• Leave fridge and freezer doors open to allow the air to circulate
• Avoid putting heavy items on top of soft furnishings – these should be near the top
• To aid ventilation, try not to lean or stack furniture against the outside walls
• Cover your goods with dust sheets to protect from dust

To find the storage solution to suit your needs, don’t hesitate to call us on 01600 735001 – We’re here to help.

How does self storage work?

Anyone can use self storage – business owners (from large corporations to start-ups), families, students and house movers, to name but a few, and most people end up needing self-storage at least once in their lifetime. That means a lot of first-time customers who may not be sure about how self storage works. If you’re looking at renting storage space for the first time or just aren’t sure what self-storage is then don’t worry as the below will help get you started.

What is self storage?

Self storage is a service that enables people, whether it’s individuals or businesses, to rent storage space remotely. This is usually because they don’t have enough space on their own premises or because what they want to store doesn’t need to be kept on premises and is therefore potentially wasting the space it is using.

Self storage facilities are all different and may specialise in particular areas or industries or offer different amenities and additional services, but all storage facilities should offer some basic necessities.

Security – CCTV and alarm security systems should all be in place to ensure your goods always stay safe and secure.

Clean and dry space – storage units should always be clean and dry to protect your goods against damp and other damage.

Accessible – whether there are clearly outlined working hours with a member of staff available or secure pin-code access for 24/7 access, you should know when you can get to your goods and should always have access during these times.

Why do people need self storage?

Self storage is born out of the necessity for more space, but there are many reasons why people may need more space in their life. For individuals looking at personal storage one of the most popular reasons is moving house where it is often necessary to store some or all furniture and personal items between properties.

Personal storage is also great for keeping your items safe and making space for renovation at home, decluttering and claiming back previously unused space in the home or simply because your property is too small for some of your more sentimental but rarely used belongings. Students especially may require storage for keeping their personal effects during the summer between student housing or while they travel.

For businesses, storage space can be used as additional stock space and mini-warehousing, a central hub for storing stock and running an online business, archiving old documents that are still needed for legal reasons, storing bulky exhibition equipment that is only needed once or twice a year and even as affordable office space to run the businesses itself.

How can you rent self storage?

Renting your own storage space is relatively straightforward but it can be hard to know where to start or be confused by some of the processes if you’ve never done it before. Here’s a step by step guide on how self storage works and what to do.

Choose your location and narrow down your search

Deciding your location will have a huge influence on which facility you eventually end up with but it doesn’t have to be the sole determining factor. Different areas in the UK will cost differently, for example self storage in London costs significantly more than elsewhere. While you may need to be near your belongings and this may restrict you, if you can look elsewhere and can travel a bit further than you may benefit by getting more affordable space.

Decide on your type of storage

The type of storage solution you need will also help determine which storage facility you choose as not all of them will offer what you need. If you’re moving to a new house or just need storage for yourself or your family then you’ll just need personal storage, but if you’re a business then you’ll want a facility that can better meet your needs. Some may specialise more in archiving or bespoke offices, or you may want a storage company that can do it all. All of this may determine whether you need single box storage, standard storage space, container storage or even bespoke office space.

Choose your unit size

You’ll then need to decide on the size of unit to suit your needs, which is the main factor for determining how much your storage solution will cost. At Self Store & More we are always happy to discuss your needs in detail and use our years of experience to guide you to the right unit size before any decision is made. There a few things to be aware of when choosing the size, such as whether you need to access any of the things you are storing. If you do, then you may want a larger space to create walkways and room to get around your unit.

Reserve your unit

Once you’ve confirmed which storage facility you’re using and have decided on the unit you want to secure you can either reserve your unit or move your belongings in straight away.

Move in

You can move in at a time that suits you depending on the hours of the facility you choose. Your storage company may even be able to help you to organise any removals. At Self Store & More we also offer a cost effective collection service using our portable warehouse units (visit our Mobile Self Storage page for more details on how this service can save you time, money and effort). Always ask for advice on the best way to pack your belongings and organise your storage unit to suit your needs and to make the most of the space you have. From there you can access your unit anytime you want according to your facility times, which is 24/7 for the majority of our storage solutions.

Move out – No Notice Period Required

If you want to move out at any point, you don’t even need to give us any notice as we like to offer the best flexibility to suit your needs. Simply let us know when you are moving out and a member of staff will be on site to receive the key to our padlock (provided free of charge) and thank you for your valued custom.

Ready to reserve your own storage space today? Give us a call, fill in our easy quote request form or come in and see us.

How can self storage help your business?

Business Storage – The Right Decision?

Office space, warehouse space, floor space at your showroom – space comes at a premium for many businesses. Especially now as rents and business rates across the country are becoming more and more expensive, forcing businesses to stop and think about how to make the most out of what they have.

But what about all the space you need for storage? The space which is taken up by documents, unused stock or rarely-used equipment? You need to keep these things secure, but if you keep them on-site you might be using valuable space that could be used for more profitable activities. 

That’s where a professional self-storage facility can save you money, time and effort.

Free Up Valuable Space

It can sometimes be difficult to concentrate at work if there are obstacles cluttering up your office space. It can therefore be really refreshing to have a clear out and store goods that you don’t use every day in a secure storage unit.

Self-storage providers can offer you a range of options and sizes to suit your business needs. Whether you are looking to store seasonal or slow-moving stock, unused displays or equipment or simply need to keep past accounts or paperwork safe until they are no longer required, there is always a solution on hand. You can then put the space you’ve freed up to a more productive use and hopefully become more efficient and profitable.

Safe, Secure and Hassle-Free

The first question you may ask is “how will my items be stored?”

It’s a good question and one worth asking. After all, if you’re trusting a storage provider with years of accounting and invoice documents, or next season’s product range, you need to know that you’re putting your items in safe hands.

Whenever you are considering a self-storage company, always telephone or visit to ask about security, access, prices (obviously!) and availability. Make sure they take security seriously. Ask about who has access to your unit in an emergency, what CCTV, Insurance, Fire and Intruder alarm provision they have. A steel storage unit in a yard may be cheap but it’s no good if anyone can drive in, have a look around and then break-in without any staff, CCTV or alarms to contend with. Never compromise your business stock and livelihood (or heirlooms) for the sake of a few ££’s saving per month.

Access 7 days a week is always a benefit so make sure you ask. It could be very frustrating if you can’t get those all-important belongings, displays or files on the weekend or after your working day, especially if you need them to prepare for tomorrow’s presentation or meeting.

Convenience

Your goods may currently be in disarray, making it difficult to find the things you need when you need them. If you invest in business self-storage you will be able to place your items in racks that are easy to access and can be labelled accordingly. That way, whenever you need to find a specific box or item you can do so without wasting time and effort looking through the disorganised pile of boxes piled in the corner of your office or workshop or deep in a cupboard under the stairs.

If you’re a tradesperson and normally have to store tools in the home, garage or shed overnight, self-storage could be a much more convenient and secure option. Or if you are having a complete refurbishment, self-storage will ensure that your work equipment is safely out the way from potential damage or dust.

If you need any further advice about how we can help you with your storage needs, then please get in contact with us at Self Store & More.

We also rent office and workshop space on flexible, cost effective agreements so why not consider having your storage and office in the same location for ease of use. Your monthly rent covers business rates, heat, light & power, 24-hour access, car parking, CCTV and alarm systems, use of communal areas, on-site management, building insurance and the option to use our high speed fibre broadband.

Home Staging: Can it Help You Sell Your Home?

When you move house, using self storage can be advantageous, not just for securely storing your belongings during or after the move, but also in the months leading up to your sale if you opt for home staging.

Home staging may be a term you’re unfamiliar with, but if you’ve been brought up on a diet of interior design shows, you will understand the concept.

Or perhaps you are aware of it, but can’t see the point of styling your home for sale?

So why bother?

If presentation is how we judge candidates at interviews, book covers in shops and food in a restaurant, why do we mistakenly believe that people are not swayed by a stylish living room?

Home stagers enable you to display your home in a way that makes it more attractive to viewers, enticing them to make an offer. It’s not simply a case of cleanliness and good taste luring people in.

Home staging, also referred to as property styling involves using props and furniture items to create this illusion.

What is home staging?

After the initial preparations of cleaning your house, decluttering and fixing instances of wear and tear, a staging expert will help you organise your home furnishings to make the property appear more spacious and attractive. The idea is to remove personal effects and establish a canvas.

Advantages of using a pro:

Home staging is not cheap, so it’s hard for sellers to justify spending money sprucing the place up for someone else to reap the benefit.

However, Right Move conducted a survey that revealed you can increase your selling price by 8% if you style your home ahead of putting it on the market.

Pricing models can be an agreed amount depending on the number of rooms that need dressing. Other experts may ask for a percentage of your sale.

If you choose to pay for a pro, you can expect the following:

• Interior design expertise that you might not possess yourself;
• Someone who knows the latest trends, and yet can create a display that has universal appeal;
• The ability to rent props and furniture instead of purchasing them yourself;
• More time to concentrate on other aspects of your imminent sale rather than decorating;
• A neutral pair of eyes can help you depersonalise your home in a way that may be difficult for you to see.

Can you do it yourself?

Yes you can, and people are opting to do this.

If you choose to go over your walls in Magnolia before a house move, then you have already experienced home staging at a simpler level.

If you are considering the DIY route, here are some tips to take on board:

• Remove personal effects from the space so it looks more like a show home – Use a local self storage unit to keep everything out the way while you prepare your house for viewings;
• Tidy up the insides of your cupboards in case people want to see inside;
• Each room should have one primary use i.e. bedroom, dining room;
• Add some tasteful props, but don’t go over board;
• Remove any faded window nets or blinds, or anything that is perceived to be worn or outdated;
• Fix any snags;
• Clean your carpets to freshen the place up and remove unsightly coffee stains;
• Paint your walls with a light colour – Light colours make a space more airy;
• Style your home for the person you want to sell to, not yourself.

Props you can use:

• A few select jars of cream and toiletries in the bathroom;
• Rolled up towels in one or two colours (hide the day-to-day football themed bath towels);
• Throws and cushions to add colour and cosiness;
• Attractive hardback books strategically placed on your coffee table or sideboard;
• Baskets and ottomans;
• Candles;
• Extra lamps to create pools of light in different parts of the room;
• Plants and flowers.

Last thoughts:

• Think of all the senses – Coffee smells and fresh bread are appetising and homely. Try not to burn your toast on the morning of the viewing, however.
• Think outside the house – Don’t forget to clean the outside of your house, refreshing the paint and weeding the driveway.
• Think Storage –  A storage unit from Self Store & more will keep your belongings safe and secure until you move into your new home. With locations covering Monmouth, Ross-on-Wye, Lydney and the surrounding areas, we have a range of storage sizes to suit your needs.
• To save you time, money and effort, we can even collect direct from your door using our Mobile Self Storage Service (www.selfstoreandmore.co.uk/mobile-self-storage).

What is Mobile Self Storage and how can it save you time, money and effort?

You may be aware of standard Self Storage and may have used it before. Self Storage involves you usually hiring and fuelling a van to transport your items to a storage space where they are kept until you want to access or collect them. We also offer this service for those that have their own transport and that works well for a lot of our customers.

But what if you don’t want to hire a van or wish to make numerous trips back and forth using your own vehicle? This is where our Mobile Self Storage collection service helps save you time, money and effort as we will deliver one or more of our standard size warehouse storage units direct to your door aswell as provide FREE assistance to help load your belongings into the unit. This also allows to make sure your belongings are secure ready for transportation.

Our Mobile Self Storage service offers the same benefits as Self Storage – free access to your items as many times as you like and flexible storage terms but with the added bonus of transport. Not only does this mean there’s no need to hire and fuel a van but your items are not double handled as, once they are loaded into the storage unit, they stay there until you visit our secure warehouse facility to collect or we return the unit back to your property. This also means that you only pay for the storage space you use. Instead of hiring a storage unit that you may only partially use, we can book you as many units as you need until the move is complete. If you’re not sure how many units are required we will be happy to discuss your needs prior to booking or you can simply decide on the day and we will invoice you for the correct number of units once you’ve finished.

10 Benefits of Mobile Self Storage
————————————————–
1. Storage unit delivered direct to your door.
2. Available 7 days a week.
3. No need to hire a van.
4. No need for a removal company.
5. No need to make numerous trips in your own car.
6. FREE assistance to help load your belongings.
7. Reduce the risk of damage – only load once.
8. FREE access to your unit whilst in storage.
9. All units remain securely stored inside our warehouse facility.
10. Located adjacent to the A40 – within easy driving distance of Monmouth, Ross-on-Wye and the Forest of Dean.

For further information and a video of how this service works, please visit www.selfstoreandmore.co.uk/mobile-self-storagehttp://www.selfstoreandmore.co.uk/mobile-self-storage.

A General Packing Guide for Self-Storage

Self-storage doesn’t have to be a space you visit a couple of times a year to dig something out of a stack of boxes. It can be a highly organised, easily accessible facility that frees up necessary space in your home or office. To get the most out of your unit, it’s best to plan in advance of the day you need self-storage.

This step-by-step plan should help you along the way:

WHAT WILL YOU STORE?

1. Depending on what you plan to store, you may want to think about making an inventory.

2.  Start by identifying items that will be packed in boxes and stacked.

3. Prioritise boxed items you will want to access most (they’ll go closer to the front of the unit).

4. Group by fragility and/or weight – heavier, substantial items should be stored on the bottom of stacked items, delicate items on top.

5. Consider awkward-sized items that won’t stack well, including how often you will need to use them, and how heavy they are.  Group these items in a similar way you did the boxes.

WHAT SIZE UNIT?

Nobody wants to pay for space they don’t need. But a little extra space makes moving around within the unit much easier and gives you room to add unplanned items.

Only you know how much stuff you have to store, but we are always happy to help if you are unsure. Visiting Self Store & more prior to booking a unit is always advisable as we have a range of different sized units for you to choose from. We are also happy to visit your premises to provide a free, no obligation assessment on the correct type and size storage unit you will require.

BE ORGANISED – PLAN YOUR PACKING

Organising and efficiently packing your items will take time and concentration. However, the up-front effort will be well worth it when you’re able to easily unload and organise your items at the storage unit (or at your premises if you use our Mobile Self-Storage collection service www.selfstoreandmore.co.uk/mobile-self-storage). Here are some tips for packing:

Invest in Supplies

 •Use boxes rather than plastic bags. Boxes are sturdier and stack well, taking up less space. Many removals companies require that goods be packed in boxes for transport. Also, sealed plastic bags can trap humidity which can cause damaging mildew.

•Invest in good quality, sturdy boxes and packing materials. Boxes should be sturdy enough to hold up for years under the weight of the stack. You may be tempted to get boxes for free from supermarkets and liquor stores; however, the mismatched shapes and sizes will impede your ability to organize most effectively. You can buy standard-sized boxes and specialty boxes for items such as TVs, videotapes and pictures. If you’re storing long-term, you may want to invest in plastic stacking boxes.

•For wrapping breakables, paper will do, but bubble wrap can be used repeatedly, is cleaner, and because it is transparent, makes identifying contents easier.

Packing boxes, bubble wrap and tape are available for purchase at Monmouth & Ross-on-Wye Self Storage. Please call to discuss your requirements.

Packing Boxes

 •Box up everything that you can. Anything unboxed has an increased risk of being damaged when you access you unit.

•Fill boxes to capacity. The contents in half-empty boxes can shift during transport or lifting. Corners and sides can collapse if there’s nothing to support them. Foam peanuts or paper is useful for filling in the gaps in boxes.

•Distribute the weight in packed boxes evenly. Make sure they are not too heavy to be lifted. It’s better to have lots of small light boxes, rather than a few large heavy boxes if possible.

•Wrap all fragile items and breakables such as dishes, glasses, ornaments, etc. separately. Pack these items tightly into strong or reinforced boxes, filling any gaps with paper or filler. Mark “Fragile” on any boxes containing breakable items.

•Clearly label all boxes on more than one side so you can easily identify the contents.

•Pack books flat to avoid damaging their spines.

Packing Other Items

 •If you plan to store clothes, it’s worth investing in a wardrobe box with a built-in hanging rod.

Large appliances must be prepared correctly for storage:

• Defrost fridges and freezers thoroughly.  This avoids water damage and mildew growth. Tie down the appliance doors during transport, but leave them slightly ajar once in storage.
• Drain washing machines, and tie down hoses and cords before storing them.
• Wipe down the inside of appliances with baking soda before you store them to keep them dry.

•Wrap mirrors and pictures in protective covering such as bubble wrap and mark them as “Fragile.” Cardboard corners can be purchased to protect the sharpest, weakest areas of frames.

•If you do store loose photographs, place them between pieces of clean cardboard and consider taping them together to avoid curling.

•Separate lamp bases and lampshades and wrap them for protection.

•If you’re storing upholstered products such as mattresses and sofas, consider investing in covers, bags or sheeting for additional protection.

•Vacuum-sealed bags work really well for draperies, bedding, and clothing.

•Electrical equipment such as TVs, stereos, and computers should be packed in their original boxes whenever possible. If using other boxes, choose ones that are as close in size to the original as possible, and fill all gaps with paper. Make sure you secure the player arm of a record player and turntable.

•Disassemble furniture such as beds and tables before you store them. Wrap and cover the separate sections, clearly mark them and keep them together. Keep assembly components such as screws and bolts together in a plastic bag, mark them clearly, and tape the bag to the appropriate piece of furniture. (Use tape that is safe for use on furniture, or tape the bag to an inconspicuous place on the piece.) Cover chair legs with bubble wrap or rags for extra protection.

•Spray your wood furniture with a good quality furniture polish before storing it to give it some added protection.

•Treat leather items with a leather conditioner before you store them.

•Wipe down metal objects and tools with a little oil before storing them to avoid rust formation that can occur when the tools are not used regularly.

•When storing a vacuum cleaner, clean out the bag or canister first; bacteria and mould can accumulate otherwise.

•Consider having awkward or heavy pieces such as exercise equipment packed professionally.

As you go, keep an inventory of every item you’ve packed. Ideally, include an estimate of the replacement value of each item you store so that you have some idea of what to insure the stored goods for.

 PACKING YOUR STORAGE UNIT

• At Self Store & more, your unit will already be clean and swept out but you can put down protective canvas sheeting, cardboard or wooden boards on the floor if you prefer.

•Keep a fold-up step stool in your space for accessing hard-to-reach areas.

•Frequently-used items should be placed near the entrance for easy access. This holds true for file boxes and other business items, too.

•Unload the largest items and place them against the far wall, as well as along the sides of the unit. A member of staff will be available to assist free of charge if needed.

•For archived business documents that you won’t need to access frequently, place them against the far wall of the unit.

•When arranging items, you can always leave an aisle space for easy access to your items.

Planning, preparing and setting up your self-storage unit may seem like a big chore. However, you will certainly find the time and effort are worth it, when you know that your belongings are properly protected protected, conveniently accessible and well-preserved.

If you need any further advice or wish to discuss how Self Store & more can help with your storage or packaging needs then please call us on 01981 541180 or send us a message via our contact page by clicking here.