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Short or long term storage? - NYC edition

Author: Betty White
by Betty White
Posted: Jun 18, 2019
term storage

If you have ever played a PC game you know that inventory management is crucial for a successful mission. It doesn't differ in real life either. Gamer or not, you need to plan and have many details laid out before you make the first step. It all comes down to which items you'll bring with you and which will await their future use. The first thing you need to decide upon is which type of storage you actually need: short or long term. How can you tell? The main difference is that depositing anything for less than three months qualifies as short term storage. From that point on, stems a wide range of uses for both types of storage options.

Short term storage

Unless you are already certain which warehousing option suits you best, you should check which situations qualify for short term storage:

  • It is an excellent solution for college students in between semesters
  • Business owners use it regularly when moving to a new location
  • You can't move into your new home just yet because it is still being built, renovated or there's an unexpected delay
  • You're traveling for a while and need to store your belongings until you return.

Of course, you will rent a storage unit if you're moving on your own, but if you're hiring professional movers, short term storage will be one of the services they will offer and take care of on your behalf.

Long term storage

On the other hand, long term storage will satisfy your demands better if:

  • Your home in NYC can't fit your hobby equipment, like gardening tools, tents and hiking equipment, bulky musical instruments, etc.
  • There isn't enough room to store seasonal items like skies or skates, summer holiday items
  • You need an additional place to keep stuff you don't plan to use in the near future like toys, cradles, and strollers, or pieces that have sentimental value like antique paintings that you'd like to pass on one day
  • You plan a long-distance move or you're going abroad for an extended period.

There are several, particularly important things you should be aware of before you start looking for suitable storage, including what suitable storage actually stands for.

What short and long term storage have in common?

Why, a storage unit, of course. And a list of items that are NOT eligible for storage in any event, so plan accordingly. Once you chose a reputable moving company, make sure to ask them about their restrictions. Even though you're paying for storage rental, know that you are absolutely not allowed to store:

  • Animals (even though your cat loves boxes)
  • Plants (no light, no life)
  • Perishables (food attracts insects and rodents)
  • Hazardous and combustible materials (toxic and flammable substances like fuel, fertilizers, paint, cleaning supplies, petroleum, medical waste)

This list reflects a rule all storage facilities agree upon and just confirms that there were certain people who actually did the unimaginable. The other prohibited items include illegal medicine and drugs, weapons and explosives, unregistered vehicles, wet and/or dirty items that can cause growth of mold and mildew. Even though it's not restricted, you should put jewelry, money and other valuables in a safety deposit box at your bank instead.

Now that you know what you can't store, determine how big storage unit you need for the remaining eligible items. Whether you're calling to arrange for short or long term storage, prepare to give precise information to the company.

All the right questions

Of course, you should inquire on the following important topics:

  • Pricing and payment. Most storage rentals, like verrazanomoving.com, offer a price estimation calculator on their website but you should verify the information with their representative. When you agree on a price, put it in a contract - otherwise, it is not legally binding. Ask which payment options are available so you don't get unpleasantly surprised later.
  • Storage insurance and safety. First, ask if the moving company offers storage insurance. If it doesn't, insure your stored inventory separately. Your standard household insurance most likely doesn't cover items you keep in a storage facility. Inquire about surveillance and security: are there cameras covering each storage unit, individual alarms, and security codes. Think about procuring a good quality lock as well.
  • Climate control and maintenance. A lot of items are prone to temperature or humidity-related damage. Ask in advance if climate control is available if you plan to store books, wooden, metal or leather furniture, electronic devices, CDs and vinyl, art and apparel. Also, check if pest control services are regularly provided.

Miscellaneous tips

By the way, avoid using the word "miscellaneous". Apply some extra effort to list and label your belongings in detail. It will save you precious time and you won't have to rummage through the boxes. Those boxes you plan to use should be plastic, transparent if possible, and sturdy enough. You will most likely need to stack them. Fragile items and lighter boxes should always go on top. If you're storing bulky furniture, disassemble it first. Wrap the parts separately but tie them together.

Moreover, you may want to know the benefits of storing within indoor and outdoor units. While an indoor storage unit is better for valuable, sensitive and fragile items, outdoor storage facilities are more convenient for vehicles and large tools. Indoor units have climate control and are pest-free whereas outdoor facilities are exposed to elements. This implies that outdoor storage units are more affordable but renting them carries certain risks.

Short or long term storage, just the same, requires that you sign a contract. Before you do that, examine the unit yourself. Thoroughly read the contract and make absolutely certain you understand all terms and conditions. Additionally, should you need non-stop access to your belongings, ask in advance if this is feasible.

About the Author

My name is Betty and I have been writing expert articles in relation to the moving industry for the last couple of years. Besides this specific area, I am also experienced in other spheres pertaining to the concept of relocation.

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Author: Betty White
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Betty White

Member since: Jan 16, 2018
Published articles: 118

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