If you’re going to be moving or are thinking about making an ongoing investment in self-storage, it’s a good idea to ask yourself a few very important questions first. Below, we’ve laid out some answers to frequently asked moving and storage questions, as well as some tips that will serve you well! Contact us if you have any additional questions.
Andres Rent A Space knows more than a little bit when it comes to offering customers moving advice and secure storage in Marion, Stonefort, Herrin, Carbondale, or Carterville, IL! Here are a few topics you should know more about:
Choosing a Self-Storage Facility
Always look for the “big three” when investigating a storage facility: cleanliness, safety/security and accessibility. You want to know that all of your belongings are being stored in a place where they’re going to be cared for and safe.
It’s also important to ask about things like on-site management, CCTV systems, gated access and more, to see what amenities the facility offers. Ask about different sizes and styles of units (vehicle storage and climate control, for example) and make sure you get concrete pricing!
Compare and contrast the information you get with the prices you’re quoted, to make sure you’re getting the right value for your money.
Packing and Organizing for Self Storage
Packing and organizing your self-storage unit is going to be the key in making the most of your space. Here again, it’s important to pay attention to three main things: organization, labeling and space utilization.
When packing, pack similar items together to make them easier to take out when you need them again (ex. Christmas decorations). Pack boxes full, but don’t overdo it on the weight—boxes shouldn’t weigh more than 50 lbs. Make sure boxes are also in good condition and properly taped shut. Another alternative is buying plastic or rubber bins/containers.
When you’ve got things packed away, be sure to label your items! If you have a clear itinerary on the side of each box, picking out what you’re looking for at a glance is easy. Another good idea is to label boxes by number, then associate that number with a list on your smartphone or tablet, which has pictures or a breakdown of box contents.
When boxes are packed and labeled, be sure to stack them appropriately in your unit. Utilize both horizontal and vertical space, without creating leaning stacks of boxes. Try not to bury boxes and use the rule of thumb that a maximum of 2 boxes should be moved to get to the one you want.
Moving Timeline
- 6-8 weeks before moving: Start considering what you’ll be moving on the day of, what needs to be packed up for storage, and what you’ll need movers to handle. Get estimates from moving companies based on the scope of your move, then select one that you feel good about and set up a date and time for them to come to your home to move things. During this time, it’s also important to start rounding up your important documents and getting everything in order for future address and document changes.
- 4-5 weeks before moving: If you’ll be packing, now’s the time to start! If you’re having movers pack, start packing anything you don’t want them to handle. Notify your utility and bill companies that you’ll be moving and work with them to set up transfer and address updates on or after a certain date. Also, this is a good time to make arrangements for pets who might be accompanying you in the move.
- 2-4 weeks before moving: Keep on packing! This is also a good time to start getting rid of things that won’t be moving with you, including hazards like old medication, paint, flammable items and more. You’re getting close to the actual move, so it’s a good idea to seek out and rent self-storage, and start moving things into it that might not be ready for your new place.
- Week before moving: Check to see that all of your belongings are properly packed (if you’re packing them) and that they’re all labeled properly. Reconfirm with the moving company if they haven’t already done so with you. Make plans for friends and family to help you with any last minute things and take care of any last-minute, time-sensitive items that need to be done. Moving day is right around the corner!
- Moving out day: Go back through your old living space and see if there’s anything you might’ve forgotten—this includes attics, garages, basements and sheds. Lock the doors and wave goodbye; you’re on your way to a new home! Remember to stick with the moving truck through traffic or, if needed, get there before your movers to ensure your new home is open and ready to receive you.
- Move-in day and after: Check to see that nothing was damaged in the move and that everything has arrived in good condition. If you’re up for it, start taking boxes to the rooms where they’ll be unpacked and take a look at where you might be setting up furniture! Enjoy your new home!