What happens when your ‘move out’ or closing date doesn’t line up PERFECTLY with your ‘move in’ date or 2nd closing?
Storage… that’s what happens.
Sometimes on the truck for a night or two, sometimes in mini/ self storage facilities… sometimes with your moving company. No matter how you chose to bridge the time between residences, or while in a smaller residence until your new home is ready- preparing for storage can be an added curveball to the entire relocation process for families. But what preparation is needed? How does storage change the typical move preparation?
Here are all the tips and advice for moving into short- or long-term storage smooth and as easy as can be.
1) Declutter! Part with things that won’t work in your new home, you intend to replace when you move in, or things you don’t LOVE anymore.
2) Wipe everything down, condition wood and leather items.
3) Use breathable containers (Cardboard boxes or totes- not plastic bags) to pack.
4) If moving appliances- make sure they are defrosted and completely dry before they go into storage. This process day take a few days to prepare ahead.
5) Drain all lawn equipment & small engines of fuel. *If rechargeable (lithium) battery powered- store these items with the batteries IN them, not separately.
6) Never store anything explosive, corrosive, flammable, irreplaceable, incredibly valuable, perishable, or living, ever. Can you get away with it? Sure- but it is not worth the risks!
7) Label everything. Be thorough, include inventory lists. This will help with misplaced or lost items.
8) Decide between self or mini storage and Moving company-warehouse storage. The general rule of thumb is if you will need ongoing access to your items, self/ mini storage is probably your best bet. If not- a moving company’s storage will definitely be easier and often, the safer option.
*Bonus, Pro Tip- Buy the Valuation or insurance coverage. When you need storage, you are essentially moving twice. Once out of your current home and into storage…. Then out of storage into your new home. The more your furniture is moved around, the higher the risk- no matter how careful and AMAZING your movers are.
Ask your Stewart Moving & Storage Move Consultant for YOUR free copy of the Storage Preparation tips or download it here
