Don’t be discouraged about finding long-term storage solutions. Whether you’re relocating, remodeling, looking to store collectibles or memorabilia, need to keep inherited antique furniture protected, or just simply ran out of closet space, long-term storage (that is, longer than three months) offers many advantages.
At Zippy Shell we’re happy to offer storage that suits any need and we can accommodate for any length of time. You have to prepare differently for perpetual storage as opposed to temporary, so keep these money, space and time-saving tips in mind and you’ll be all set.
For long-term storage, cardboard boxes are not the best option. They are vulnerable to regular wear and tear and aren't airtight. Instead, we recommend plastic storage containers. When storing for long term, even plastic boxes should be sealed with packing tape to keep dirt and debris out. To be exceptionally thorough, purchase a moisture-absorbing product (pellets, pillows, strips, gels, etc.) and leave it in your container.
Here at Zippy Shell, we’re always advising you to label what you’re putting into portable self storage units. With a long-term plan, it’s a good idea to label not just the room the items came from, or the contents of the box, but also the date it was packed and stored. This way you have a general idea of the time frame.
Disassemble anything you can. What’s the point in leaving your bed fully assembled? Save on space by taking things apart, like table legs and bookshelves. Remove any wheels to make a couple of inches of room. Once you’ve taken apart your furniture, put all nuts, bolts, and screws together in a plastic bag and use masking tape to stick it to the largest part of the piece of furniture it came from.
Most smart packing techniques apply no matter the duration your items will remain in storage. Pack heavier things first, and pile lighter boxes on top. If your storage container is doing double duty housing both short-term and long-term items, your long-term items don’t need to be as easily accessible. Keep things you’ll need sooner on top, or in the front, or in a way that is easy to get to. Store glass frames or mirrors between mattresses or use blankets to wrap them for protection. A wide variety of vacuum sealed bags are available and can help protect your belongings and will make space by squishing and contracting anything soft inside.
If you’re storing for a long time, you can use a repellent to ensure pests stay out. Although Zippy Shell takes pride in their neat, climate-controlled facility, you can never be too careful. Our staff is friendly, trustworthy, and reliable. We make it convenient for you, because we are mobile and agile. By delivering your storage to your front door and collecting it only when you tell us to do so, we work with you to keep your storage experience stress-free, even if you only need temporary storage every few months.