When it comes to long-term storage, careful planning and thoughtful packing make all the difference. At Storage Quarters, we’ve helped families, businesses, and professionals protect their belongings for decades. Whether you’re preparing for a move, downsizing, or simply creating more space at home or in the office, packing correctly ensures your items remain safe, organized, and easy to access when you need them. Over the years, we’ve seen both successful storage strategies and common mistakes, and we’re here to share the do’s and don’ts to guide you through the process.
Do: Choose the Right Storage Option
The first step in preparing for long-term storage is selecting the right type of space. Our facility offers secure self storage units that range in size from small closet-style spaces to larger units capable of holding the contents of a multi-room home. For those who prefer convenience, our on demand storage service allows you to schedule pickup and delivery of your items without ever needing to visit the facility. By matching your needs to the right storage solution, you’ll save time, money, and stress.
Don’t: Store Without a Plan
One of the most common mistakes people make is rushing into storage without a plan. Before packing, take inventory of what you’re storing. Create a list of boxes and contents, label everything clearly, and decide how you’ll organize your unit. A simple numbering system can save you hours of searching down the line. Skipping this step may leave you with a cluttered unit and difficulty retrieving items when you need them.
Do: Use Proper Packing Materials
The right supplies protect your belongings against damage during storage. Always use sturdy boxes, packing tape, and bubble wrap for fragile items. Avoid reusing worn or damaged boxes—they collapse easily and can compromise your items. For clothing, consider garment bags, and for electronics, original packaging offers the best protection. Investing in proper materials is a small cost compared to replacing valuable or sentimental belongings.
Don’t: Overpack Boxes
Cramming items into overfilled boxes can cause them to break or warp. Instead, distribute weight evenly and avoid making boxes too heavy to lift safely. Keep in mind that heavier items should always go into smaller boxes, while lighter belongings like bedding and linens can fill larger ones. Overstuffed boxes not only risk collapsing but also make stacking inside your self storage unit more difficult.
Do: Protect Sensitive Items
Certain items need extra care in long-term storage. For example, wooden furniture should be polished to prevent drying out, and upholstered items benefit from breathable covers to ward off dust. Electronics and documents should be stored in climate-controlled storage units to prevent damage from humidity and temperature changes. At our facility, we provide these controlled environments to ensure that sensitive belongings stay in excellent condition.
Don’t: Forget About Accessibility
Think about how often you might need to access your stored items. Pack frequently used belongings near the front of your storage unit, and leave walkways so you can reach boxes in the back. Without this consideration, you may find yourself unloading half your unit just to grab one small item.
Do: Take Advantage of Document Solutions
Businesses and professionals often store more than just physical items. We provide secure medical record storage as well as services to digitize paper documents, making it easier to manage files over time. Whether you’re a healthcare provider in need of HIPAA-compliant storage or a small business looking to cut down on paper clutter, integrating document solutions into your storage plan ensures that your sensitive records are both accessible and protected.
Don’t: Leave Items Unsecured
Never store items without taking proper security precautions. At Storage Quarters, we provide 24-hour video surveillance, keypad entry, fenced and lighted facilities, and electronic access gates. Still, it’s important to take responsibility for your belongings by using high-quality locks and securing fragile items inside your boxes. Neglecting this step can increase the risk of loss or damage.
Do: Think Ahead About Shredding and Disposal
When storing business records, not everything needs to be kept forever. Planning ahead for secure document destruction makes it easier to manage files in the future. We offer on site shredding services and mobile document shredding, allowing businesses to securely dispose of records when retention requirements expire. Incorporating shredding and digitization into your storage plan prevents clutter and protects sensitive information.
Don’t: Store Prohibited or Perishable Items
It’s important to remember that not everything belongs in storage. Avoid storing food, plants, flammable materials, or hazardous chemicals. Perishable items attract pests and create unsafe conditions, while prohibited items may violate safety regulations. Sticking to permitted items ensures that your unit—and your neighbors’—remains safe and clean.
Do: Take Advantage of Professional Support
One of the greatest benefits of working with an experienced team like ours is the guidance and support we provide. From selecting the right storage unit size to arranging climate control, document digitization, and even shredding services, we’re here to make the process seamless. Long-term storage doesn’t have to be overwhelming when you have experts on your side.