Important Tips to Consider for Short-term Storage

Storage units are often the best solution when you need to put your things away for a while. Whether you’re downsizing, remodeling, or moving, a storage facility is the easiest way to keep your things safe for a certain period of time. The truth is that not everyone needs a storage space for a long time. If you need it for a few weeks or days, you’ll find plenty of local storage providers. However, don’t just go for the nearest provider, at least not without considering a few important things. In the following text, you’ll learn what’s short-term storage, how to choose a storage unit, and things to look out for when renting one. If you’re about to rent a storage facility for a brief period, we’ve got you covered. Carry on reading to find our most important tips to consider for short-term storage.

A self-storage unit

What Is Short-Term Storage?

A short-term storage unit is a storage facility that’s reserved on a relatively brief timeline. Relatively short means that various movers have different definitions of the term. Some of them will see the term “short” differently than others. That’s why it’s extremely important to talk to your storage provider. Figure out all the details directly with them before you sign a contract. While the term is definitely relative, a general timeline is usually anything under one season. That means under three months. It makes a solid choice for all sorts of situations. Like when people remodeling their home and need a space to briefly store their things.

Figure out desired dates

Regardless of the type of storage, you’re going for, you should first consider the storage timeline. Some storage providers will offer you flexible month-to-month leasing. In that case, you can pay as you go and leave as you please. On the other hand, there are storage providers that will offer great deals for long-term users. You may take advantage of that. Why not get a discount if you already know you’ll need storage for a prolonged period?

Size

The second tip to consider when renting a short-term storage unit is the size. Estimating how much space you need can be tricky, but there are a few things to help you. Before you choose, go and visit the facility. Check the space in person, because sometimes dimensions can seem totally different on paper. Stack all of your possessions in one place so you could have an idea of how much space you need.

A girl holding a measuring tape

Consider a Climate-Controlled Unit

Most of us are familiar with traditional storage units. But, you may want to step up your game and check out a climate controlled-storage unit. Unlike regular storage facilities, these storage units have temperature and humidity control. That’s highly beneficial if you’re storing sensitive or valuable items. Consider a climate-controlled unit if you want to store leather, wooden furniture, family heirlooms, electronics, musical instruments, collectible art, cosmetics, paperwork, etc. If you live in an area known for temperature changes or extreme temperatures, you should definitely get familiar with climate-controlled storage units.

A sign for a climate controlled storage unit

Read the contract

Of course, you’ll read the contract when you’re buying a house or another important thing in your life, but chances are you’ll run through the storage contract without paying too much attention –we’re all guilty of it. Don’t make this mistake and always read the contract before signing. The reason for that is because it will state whether your timeline is flexible or not and you’ll want a provider that’s going to fit that in the contract. Other important factors may also change your thoughts about conditions you agree to when you sign. Also, try to compare the listed process with other companies before you sign a contract.

Pack smart

Packing is rarely fun, but it sure can be affordable if you know how to do it. Tips for packing things for any kind of storage also apply when you’re packing for short-term storage. For example, you’ll need packing supplies, to begin with. Go ahead and find the right storage boxes or containers, bubble wrap, packing paper, packing tape, scissors, and anything else your specific possessions require. Don’t forget to bring a marker and label your boxes for better organization and easy access. Also, check if your storage provider gives you a new lock because if they don’t, you’ll have to get one yourself.

A self-storage unit-indoor

Protect your items properly

Next, your things should be kept in the best shape, regardless of how long they’re being stored, so keep them properly protected. Make sure all belongings are cushioned and wrapped, and you don’t have to worry too much about it – as long as they’re covered. If you have large pieces of furniture, use blankets or other similar items to keep it from getting all dusty or damaged. Always clean and air your things before storing them, and once you’re done with packing − go ahead and label each box. Double-check the content before closing and taping any box you plan to store away – by doing so, you’ll save yourself the trouble later on when you need to use your things again.

 

Hopefully, our short guide helped you get some basic tips to consider for short-term storage, but if you need more tips or you have any additional questions, contact an experienced moving and storage Brooklyn company. We understand that you have questions before investing in a storage unit, and we’re here to answer all of them. As full-service Brooklyn movers, we offer moving-related services, including renting storage units. At Dorothy And Martha Moving, we give you the best free moving quotes in Brooklyn and help you find the best solution for your relocation. Let’s get in touch and chat about your upcoming move!

Why You Need Furniture Padding When Moving

If you plan on moving by yourself, it’s essential to lookup for fundamental tips and guides before the actual process starts. Especially when it comes to bulky items like furniture. Besides conventional packing materials like boxes, packing paper, and tape, it’s important to put an accent on furniture padding, to prevent any kind of damage or even breakage. Luckily, furniture padding is made out of different materials depending on your preferences and can be bought or rented. This is a great option for one-time moves and lower budgets. If you aren’t sure whether or not to use furniture padding while moving, read the following article on the subject.

Bubble Wrap Under The Furniture

What is Furniture Padding?

There are different names for furniture padding, including blankets, moving blankets, and thick covering in various dimensions and sizes.

Specific kinds of moving blankets are specially designed to incorporate shocks. They are usually made out of cotton or polyester (sometimes even the combination). Some pieces of moving blankets have additional cushioning on the inside.

Furniture padding is used for different purposes like protection from damage, dirt, stabilization, etc.

Protection of Items

One of the main purposes of using furniture padding is simply protecting different items, including furniture, electronics, glassware, antiques, and similar objects that are prone to damage.

When the moving box isn’t absolutely full, the remaining space can increase the risk of breakage. Using furniture padding to protect items before putting them in a moving box is highly recommended, especially regarding delicate items. Also, don’t hesitate to use an extra layer of protection if you plan on moving precious items.

Thick Padding For Floor Protection

Protection of Furniture

Protecting heavy and bulky furniture pieces is a problem of its own. However, most frequent damage usually happens on the incredibly fragile furniture legs.

For instance, only dropping the couch can damage the furniture piece and even the floor.

Covering the furniture in padding can significantly reduce the risk of damaging furniture legs.

Protection of Floors

If you wonder how to protect floors when moving, using furniture padding is crucial. It protects floors from scratching when moving bulky furniture. You can use furniture padding to provide floor protection on various items, including heavy furniture, consoles, etc.

This way, if you drop a heavy piece of furniture, an additional protective layer will ensure that your floors remain intact (especially wooden ones that are prone to scratches).

A Moving Blanket

Prevention of Dirt

While moving, it’s utterly natural that the items attract a lot of dirt, dust, and other filthy particles from the moving vehicle and outdoor environment; that’s where furniture padding comes in. Using moving blankets and other types of furniture padding prevents items from getting dusty or dirty.

The additional benefit of using furniture padding excludes any kind of water from impacting the moving objects.

Large and Bulky Items

Customer reviews state that furniture padding is very important for covering large and bulky items, so it’s definitely the most popular use.

Every furniture pad’s dimension is different depending on the dimensions of the items you plan on covering.

It’s important to secure some types of furniture padding with different kinds of tape. If needed, apply additional layers of wrapping.

Bubble Wrap For Furniture Protection

Moving Help

Since moving large and bulky furniture items can present quite a challenge, especially if you plan on relocating by yourself, using furniture padding can help you if you don’t have an extra pair of hands. How? Certain types of furniture padding allow the pieces to slide instead of merely carrying them. This applies only to wooden floors or tiles.

Unfortunately, this trick can only be done indoors, but it’s still a significant amount of help that will help you rest even for a moment or two.

Renting or Buying?

If you plan on hiring a professional moving company, they will most likely provide the furniture padding if needed. However, in some cases, you might need to pay an extra fee for this kind of service in agreement with the moving company called renting.

However, DIY moving also includes two options: renting or buying.

So, if you don’t want to store furniture padding and moving blankets for further moves, consider renting them from various retailers.

As for regulars moves, it’s wise to purchase furniture padding to avoid future complications, which can be bought almost anywhere, including Walmart, Uboxes, etc.

Additional Moving Supplies

There are additional packing supplies besides furniture padding that you’ll need if you’re opt-out for a DIY move.  The ultimate packing supplies list includes: moving boxes, moving tape (duck tape), bubble wrap, wrapping material, labels, moving vehicle, covers, help. Check out some of the best places to find packing supplies in Brooklyn.

Packing Supplies - Tape, Boxes, Packing Paper

Hiring Professional Help

If it’s your first time moving furniture or similar (large and bulky items), consider hiring professional Brooklyn movers to do the whole thing for you, including packing, loading, unloading, unpacking alongside transportation. However, keep in mind not all moving companies are pure professionals. Hiring inadequate moving service can result in damage or even breakage of your furniture. While choosing the right moving company, make sure to explore all of the available options and choose a reputable company with a reliable and solid work ethic.

Your best parameter on deciding which company to hire is customer reviews and recommendations from friends and family.

A Professional Mover Is Packing Furniture

Getting an Insurance Policy

Transporting pricey pieces of furniture isn’t an easy thing to do, especially if you have no prior experience on the subject. In that case, we advise getting an insurance policy in agreement with the moving company you choose. There are a couple of options; just be sure to inform yourself on time. Some moving services include insurance policies, while others don’t, depending on the moving company you choose.

 

In general, moving heavy and bulky items like furniture is heavy in every sense of that word meaning that furniture padding presents quite an essential if you want to prevent dirt getting in, damaging floors, damaging the furniture pieces, etc.

So, consider renting or buying the right kind of furniture padding in agreement with the moving company you choose. Here, at Dorothy And Martha Moving, we can help you with your furniture padding.

How to Plan a Long-distance Corporate Relocation

Relocations are very common for many companies these days. And there are many reasons behind the decision of one company to relocate their business. Changes in the market, better potential customer pool, or simply a fresh start. All of these are very legit reasons for one company to decide to move their business. On the other hand, corporate relocation can mean expanding the business. Many successful companies and corporations are opening new stores and offices to have better market coverage. In any case, wherever you find the ideal office space, you will need to organize a relocation. And here we will help you to plan and execute long-distance corporate relocation fast and successfully. Continue reading “How to Plan a Long-distance Corporate Relocation”

Pack a Moving Truck Like a Pro

When you are in the process of moving, there is that one thing you need to do before the actual move that is undoubtedly inevitable. You have to pack. Some people find this maybe even fun; others find it annoying and tiring, especially if you lack time. Which one are you? Once you pack your boxes and bags, there is another step: you should pack and load the moving truck. This can go so smoothly if you simply hire long distance movers Brooklyn, who are professionals in this line of business, and who will pack a moving truck for you in no time and in a way that it will be easy to unload it. Yes, it can be done that quickly and easily. On the other hand, if you have decided to do this on your own, stay tuned, because here we will give you some great tips and tricks on how to do this. Continue reading “Pack a Moving Truck Like a Pro”

9 Cheap Ways to Move Cross Country

Although moving requires a lot of time and energy, one of the most critical necessities is simply money. Conducting the proper budget that will cover all expenses should be the first task on the moving list. However, even with adequate preparation and planning costs when moving across the country, the long-distance moving costs are pretty high and can go up the roof. So if it’s your first time moving and you want to save up as much money as possible, consider reading the following text, where we’ll explore the 9 cheap ways to move cross country.

 

A moving truck on the road in a long-distance, cross-country move

1. Declutter

It has become quite a habit to pile up stuff in this busy era even if we actually don’t need them, meaning they don’t have a purpose. However, for some, it’s tough to throw away items they acquired over a long period of time. There are a couple of options to reduce the costs or even make money — one of them is decluttering.

Decluttering home before the move will reduce the number of items you will need to pack or even ship if required.

Instead of simply throwing away things that you consider unnecessary, there are ways to make money and increase the moving budget.

Read the tips for holding a successful pre-move garage sale and follow them for throwing a garage sale where neighbors and locals can purchase the items, which can work in both ways. Also, a couple of online platforms can serve this purpose, including Amazon, E-bay, Craigslist, or even certain Facebook pages and groups.

When talking about clothes, if they are in proper condition, there are numerous specialty stores for selling your belongings, including second-hand stores.

2. Donate

If you are a different type of sport and like giving to the community, another option for decluttering your home prior to the move is to donate unwanted items before long-distance relocation. You can donate your items to charities and unprofitable organizations to put the unneeded things to good use.

A big and a small box on a seesaw

3. Portable Containers

User reviews state that renting a portable moving container is an excellent option if you are considering moving cross country, especially if you want to avoid hiring professional service movers. Renting a portable moving container is much cheaper than hiring a moving company. These containers have a dual purpose, including portability and using it as a storage unit.

The cost of renting a portable container depends on the length of time you plan to use it and the unit’s size. The only thing you need to do is load your belongings and leave the rest for the company to handle. If you pay an extra fee, they will also load and unload your belongings.

4. Packing Supplies

Before you start moving, it’s essential to pack up your belongings properly, which will require you to obtain the right kind of packing supplies. Make sure to explore all the available options at the time, and even ask the local grocery stores and retailers for boxes, bubble wrap, box stores, etc. Also, don’t forget to ask family and friends for help and used boxes. Buying the whole amount of items from the ultimate packing supplies list is quite costly and it is a significant impact on your budget, especially if it’s a tight fund.

Packing Supplies - Tape, Boxes, Packing Paper

5. Moving Truck

If you decide to move by yourself completely, one of the main pieces of advice is to rent a moving truck since it’s the cheapest option as long as you choose a reliable company. The main expenses when hiring a moving truck include fuel, the agreed rate, and maybe insurance. However, keep in mind renting a moving truck will leave you to do absolutely everything on your own, including packing, loading, unloading, and unpacking.

So if it’s your first time moving cross country and you plan on moving by yourself, it might be a good idea to find a good professional moving service to help with the whole process.

Man Loading The Moving Truck

6. The Right Date and Discounts

You might not know this information, but the price of the move depends on the moving date you choose. For instance, moving in the spring or summer will present quite a cost, especially if you book close to the moving date. So, try to book the moving date ( if you are hiring professional help) a couple of weeks or even months in advance.

Also, if you are a part of the military, the AAA, or similar communities, it’s sure you’ll have some discounts because of your membership.

Besides, certain companies offer to pay for moving of their employees, at least in some percent.

7. Cutting Your Expenses

Although getting an insurance policy doesn’t sound like saving up money, it can relieve you in the long term significantly if some valuable items get damaged. As mentioned before, don’t hesitate when it comes to donations. Ask a couple of moving companies for offers and choose the best one. Use shipping agencies if you want to avoid dealing with bulky pieces like furniture, etc.

Cut your expenses and find out about cheap ways to move cross country

8. Ask Family and Friends for Help

One of the best ways to save up money is by asking family and friends to help with packing, loading, unloading, and unpacking, especially if you are moving heavy objects. Don’t forget to clear the path of any obstacles to avoid the risk of injury — the reason why it’s important to make a good plan before you start loading objects.

9. Hire a Professional Service

If you have no prior experience with moving and can’t find a pair of extra hands to help, consider hiring a professional moving company. Here, at Dorothy And Martha Moving, we can take care of the whole process ( packing, loading, unloading, unpacking) for the right price. If you want to save up an additional amount of money, book the moving date in advance and look for discounts and vouchers.

Keep in mind there is a wide range of fraudulent companies posing as certified moving companies that can lose, misplace, or damage your belongings. To avoid any complications, make sure you choose a certified company with a reputable service (customer reviews are the best parameter).

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