Storage Tips for a Successful Transition

1. Reserve your storage unit

Reserve your storage unit in advance before you need to move your items in. Not sure what to look for in a storage unit? Consider features like the size and cost of the units, lease agreement length and type, and overall security.



Determine which features matter most to you, and look for and reserve a storage unit that fits your specific needs. For instance, if you only need short-term storage solutions and the ability to access your belongings any time of day, you'll likely want a 24-hour self-service storage unit that has a month-to-month lease agreement.

2. Know what you should and shouldn't put in storage

You can put most personal items in a storage unit, but before you pack your belongings and haul them down to your rental, you should know exactly what you can and can't keep inside.



Most storage facilities have their own rules and regulations, and you'll also likely have this information in your rental agreement. Generally, though, you can't place the following items in your storage unit:

• Tyres
• Living or dead items, such as animals or plants
• Weapons
• Ammunition
• Combustible or flammable items
• Hazardous or toxic items, including petrol and harsh cleaning chemicals like bleach
• Foods, even if they're considered nonperishable
• Stolen goods
• Drugs or illegal items
• Valuables
• Cash
• Wet items that can breed mold and mildew

3. Pack your items efficiently

Once you've determined what can and can't go into your storage unit, begin packing. As with any move, you'll want to invest in quality packing supplies such as boxes, plastic tote bins, bubble wrap and packing tape. 

Wrap any fragile items—like dishes, vases or glassware—securely and place them in well-marked boxes. Pack the remaining belongings by person and by room, and clearly label each box. If you plan to store any furniture, prepare it beforehand. (You can find furniture preparation tips in our previous blog article.)



Once you move in to your rental unit, unload and stack all items efficiently and make the most of your space, especially the vertical space. Place heavy boxes and furniture at the bottom, in corners and along walls. Stack lighter boxes near the top, and don't forget to leave yourself a small pathway or two for walking within the unit.

4. Invest in an insurance policy

If you're worried your items might get damaged or stolen while in storage, get an insurance policy. While theft or damage is unlikely if you care for and store your items correctly, an insurance policy will help you rest easier knowing your items are protected with anything unexpected.

5. Prepare for move in and move out

Once move-in day arrives, you'll likely be so preoccupied with unloading items that the last thing you'll want to deal with is a hiccup. Make sure you have the right paperwork on move-in day if you need to finish any steps the day of. Also bring a lock with you so you can secure your unit.

And before you move out of your rental unit, familiarise yourself with your facility's policy. For example, do you need to clear debris from inside the unit? Who should you contact to report your move out if the date wasn't established in your lease? Call a representative from your storage facility and note these move-out specifics.

If you want a self-storage unit, need to hire a removalist or want assistance packing your belongings before a move, call Zippy Removals & Storage. We have several storage unit sizes and moving services available to fit your specific needs.