Packing Antiques by Yourself – Is It a Good Idea?

Posted on 09/16/202108/22/2023 by BigApple

Even the flies on the wall know by now that moving is a tough ordeal. The process of relocation is one of the most stressful events in a person`s life. What makes moving so stressful is the fact that there are so many different things one should worry about.

For instance, what is your strategy for the transportation of your belongings? In the event of any damage, what measures have you taken? Have you considered engaging professional movers or opting for a do-it-yourself approach? The relocation process is fraught with numerous concerns and potential pitfalls. Packing valuable antiques independently may prove to be a particularly perplexing and uncertain undertaking.

These items are valuable, so is it a good idea to try to pack them by yourself? Let’s answer the question straight away − packing antiques by yourself is never a completely safe procedure.

But let’s get some more info to learn why it’s not the best option and what to do instead.

Packing Antiques by Yourself vs. Hiring Movers

Hiring relocation professionals is always the best idea. This especially applies if some challenging items need to be packed and transported. And, when we say challenging, we do mean antiques. Be honest, are you aware of how beneficial it would be to hire antique and fine art movers NYC for your relocation? Well, you are about to find out.

Antique and art movers have a lot of experience

When it comes to packing antiques, the challenges that one may encounter are effortlessly handled by a professional moving crew. Their daily experience in dealing with valuable and fragile art pieces ensures that your precious items are prepared for transportation without any difficulty.

Opting for a do-it-yourself approach would require you to source packing materials, determine the best method to pack and secure your antique pieces, as well as find a suitable means of transporting them safely to your new residence. Such a process can be exhausting for an individual, but not for professionals who are accustomed to handling delicate and valuable items.

Professional movers are quick

Things that will take you one week to do, they could do in a day. Just think how much time and planning it takes to move antique possessions. Think about all the small tasks, like going to the store to buy professional packing materials, the time it takes it actually pack it, and eventually time for loading, driving, and unloading from the moving vehicle. Chances are you’ll have to spend a couple of days on this process.

On the other hand, fine art movers will do everything in one day, so it’s the most efficient way to move your goods. Because they’re used to this type of work, their skills are far beyond a regular individual trying to DIY. Time efficiency is one of the top benefits of hiring professionals to handle your antiques.

Professional movers are insured

In the worst-case scenario, where some of your items got damaged or broken, they would reimburse you. Art and antique movers will provide insurance so you’ll be covered in case anything gets damaged along the way. On the other hand, if you choose to move antiques alone, you’ll end up having a damaged piece and no way to be reimbursed for it.

Of course, this all sounds great. However, affordable movers NYC – based are not so easy to find. Their fees are often steep, which is why people decide to relocate and pack by themselves. In case you are not in an envious financial situation and you cannot afford to hire movers, let us help you with this challenging task that is in front of you. These are some simple steps to follow in case you decide to move antiques on your own.

How to prepare your antiques for moving?

The preparation is just as important as the packing itself. Before we dig into the rules you should follow when packing antiques, let`s first mention the proper way to prepare your valuables for such a move.

Make an inventory list

You should take a day or two to go through your house and make a list of every antique you have in your possession. This will be important for the future days when you are unpacking your things and checking whether everything is where it`s supposed to be. We are experienced Big Apple Movers, so trust us when we tell you that you do not want to skip this step.

It may be a bit time-consuming if you have many antique pieces but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming at all – so many different home checklist apps are available that can even make it a fun experience. If that’s not your cup of tea, just go the traditional way and use pen and paper to write down your antique items.

Clean your antiques

Just like you plan on cleaning the rest of your furniture before packing it, you should do the same with your antiques. However, make sure to use only water and avoid any strong chemicals. You do not want to damage your priceless pieces. Moreover, if you possess any antique furniture that you plan on transporting, make sure you empty it before the moving day. Take out all the contents, such as doors, legs, knobs. This will protect your antique furniture from any additional damage. Don’t forget that each piece of furniture should be wrapped individually and secured for maximum protection.

Purchasing insurance is a must

If we could set apart only one thing that you must do before transporting your antiques, it would be this one! By purchasing insurance, you are making sure that even in the case of any damage, you would not suffer a big financial loss. Yes, this will not exactly save you money in the Big Apple, but it will give you a sense of security.

How to pack antiques?

Now that your antique furniture is ready for packing, it is time to deal with the finishing touches. This is the time to be even more careful when handling your antiques. So, what are the common rules you should abide by when approaching this task?

Use quality protective packaging materials

In most cases, the packaging is what affects the most a condition in which your items will arrive at a new location. Moreover, it is advisable to add at least two layers of protective materials. Don’t try to save money at this stage, as quality bubble wrap, moving blankets, and other professional materials will play an important role in keeping your antique items safe.

Secure your antiques tightly

If you are moving antique furniture, make sure to use plastic wrap, which will hold your items in place. If you are dealing with breakable antiques, make sure to fill in the extra space in the moving box with foam peanuts – you want to avoid shifting inside the box. Also, the tape is a must and you should use it to secure everything in place and prevent anything from falling out during transit.

Never forget to properly label the boxes

This especially goes for fragile antiques, such as vases. You need to let everyone know that the box in question needs to be handled with utmost care. Even though you will clearly mark each box, always verbally inform your helpers about extra fragile content.

Everyone should know how to pack fragile items, which antiques are. They cost a lot of money, which puts them in a special category.

When to call in for professional help?

If you had an expensive piano in your possession, would you attempt to relocate and pack it by yourself, or would you call piano movers NYC to handle this task? That`s right, you would, in 99 percent of the cases, be wise, and call in for professional help. The same rule applies to your antiques. In case you own some very expensive, or rare antiques, be smart. There will be no refund that could make up for that one-of-a-kind vase. And, if you attempt to move such expensive antiques by yourself, you are taking an unnecessary risk. A huge one, if we might add.

Packing antiques by yourself – is it a good idea?

The truth is that there is no right or wrong answer to this question; which, we are sure, you have realized by now. However, if you own some antiques which are of extreme importance, please think carefully about them! Packing antiques by yourself can only be advisable in those situations when you can imagine parting with the items in question. In every other situation, the risk is too great. Of course, the best way to move antiques is to get professional antique movers to help you. Specialized NYC movers may not seem like the most affordable option at first, but in most cases, it’s worth it. If you’re eyeing to hire a reliable moving company to assist with moving your precious belongings, Big Apple may be the right fit. Contact us and get free moving quotes Brooklyn.

What To Do With Used Moving Boxes

Posted on 09/09/202107/27/2023 by BigApple

Congratulations on the successful completion of your relocation to a new abode. You may now find yourself encircled by numerous stacks of previously utilized moving boxes. Although it may seem appealing to dispose of them, there exist numerous eco-friendly and imaginative methods to grant these boxes a second chance.

In this article, we shall delve into some pragmatic and enjoyable concepts to maximize the utility of your used moving boxes.

What To Do With Boxes After Moving

Once you finish moving and unpacking, you may have extra boxes. Don’t let them take up space or create waste. Try these ideas to make use of them.

Use For Storage

Moving boxes can be repurposed for storage to help you keep your home organized. You can designate boxes for seasonal items like decorations or clothing. Additionally, they can be used in the garage or attic to store tools, sports equipment, or other items that are not frequently used. Label the boxes clearly for easy identification, and you’ll have an efficient and budget-friendly storage solution.

Reuse

A good way to handle used moving boxes is to reuse them for your next move or give them to friends and family who are moving. Flatten the boxes and keep them in a dry place until you need them again. Reusing boxes saves money and helps the environment by reducing the need for new boxes.

Fun/useful DIY projects

Using your creativity and a few basic crafting supplies, you can transform your used moving boxes into exciting and practical DIY projects that serve various purposes. Here are some inspiring ideas to get you started:

Cardboard Playhouse: Give your kids a delightful surprise by transforming large moving boxes into their very own cardboard playhouse. Cut windows, doors, and even a small chimney for added charm. Let your children decorate the exterior with paints, markers, or stickers, turning the playhouse into a blank canvas for their imagination to run wild. This DIY playhouse will provide hours of fun and entertainment.
Cardboard Pet Bed: Your furry friends deserve a cozy spot of their own, and a cardboard pet bed can be an inexpensive and comfortable solution. Cut out an appropriate-sized section from a box, ensuring it’s large enough for your pet to curl up comfortably. You can line the inside with soft blankets or old pillows to make it extra snug. Your pets will love having their personalized space to relax and rest.
Cardboard Picture Frames: Add a personal touch to your walls by making picture frames out of cardboard. Cut the boxes into desired frame sizes, paint or decorate them, and insert your favorite photos. It’s an excellent way to showcase memories while also being environmentally friendly.
Cardboard Desk Organizer: Keep your desk clutter-free by crafting a cardboard desk organizer. Cut and arrange the boxes to create compartments for holding pens, pencils, notepads, and other stationery items. You can also add dividers to keep everything neatly organized. This project is not only practical but also a fun way to personalize your workspace.

Remember, the key to successful cardboard DIY projects is using sturdy boxes and ensuring they are clean and free from any debris. Additionally, always prioritize safety when working with cutting tools or paints, especially if involving children in the crafting process.

Sell

Hey, if your boxes are still in good shape and you don’t need them anymore, why not sell them? Lots of folks who are getting ready to move would love to snag some used boxes at a cheaper price than brand new ones. You can post them on online marketplaces or community groups so buyers can easily come pick them up.

Donate

Donating your used boxes can be a wonderful way to give back to the community and help others who may be in need of packing materials. Several options are available for donating your boxes, and it’s a win-win situation for both you and the recipients.

Local Charities and Nonprofits: Reach out to local charities or nonprofits in your area to see if they accept donations of moving boxes. Organizations that assist people transitioning from homelessness to stable housing, disaster relief agencies, or those supporting families in need during difficult times might greatly appreciate your contribution. These groups often rely on donations to provide necessary resources to those they serve. By donating your used boxes, you’re helping these organizations save on expenses and direct more of their resources towards their core missions.
Community Centers and Schools: Cardboard boxes can be used in many ways by community centers and schools. Art programs can use them for crafting, while educators can use them for organizing materials or setting up classroom displays. You can contact local community centers, schools, or youth organizations to see if they need your boxes.
Online Platforms: Consider using online platforms specifically designed for donating items to individuals in need. Websites and apps that connect donors with people seeking free items can be an excellent way to find someone who requires moving boxes. By utilizing these platforms, you can directly assist someone who might not have the means to purchase new boxes.
Environmental Impact: Giving away your old boxes is good for the environment. When you donate them, they won’t end up in landfills where they can take a long time to break down. This means less need for new cardboard, which saves natural resources and reduces pollution from making new boxes.

Conclusion

If you don’t know what to do with your old moving boxes, there are many ways to use them again that are good for the environment. You can use them for your next move, make something new with them, or give them away or sell them. By doing any of these things, you help reduce waste and show that you care about the planet.

What To Do If Movers Are Late

Posted on 08/30/202108/02/2023 by BigApple

Relocating can be a multifaceted undertaking that necessitates meticulous planning and coordination to ensure a hassle-free experience. Ideally, your move will proceed without any unforeseen complications. Nevertheless, certain circumstances may be beyond your control, resulting in unfavorable outcomes. One such challenge that may arise during the relocation process is tardiness on the part of the movers during pick-up or delivery.

Whether you’re waiting for your things to be picked up or your belongings are being delivered, waiting for movers is certainly not pleasant. In general, it’s more frustrating if movers are late for delivery because you won’t have your things with you.

But, steps to handle the issue are pretty much the same with delivery and pick-up delays. When your movers are late, it’s very important that you stay calm because you’ll need composure in order to solve the issue.

You’ll have to call them and hopefully, you’ll reach them quite quickly – we hope you did your homework and hired a licensed and reliable NYC moving company.

Why Are Movers Late?

There are various reasons why movers may experience delays. Traffic congestion can cause unforeseen delays, and technical issues with the moving vehicle can also contribute to tardiness. Additionally, misunderstandings regarding the correct address or unexpected flat tires can further exacerbate the situation. Despite the best efforts of movers to exercise due diligence and professionalism, unforeseen circumstances can occasionally arise.

Late movers are not a reason to hit the panic button straight away. Consider the human factor as well – one of the crew members may be sick. There may be an emergency or an accident. So, remain calm at least until you learn what’s holding them back.

If movers are late with delivering your items to the new address or they’re not on time to pick up your belongings, be proactive and follow the simple steps below. If you’re wondering what to do when movers are late, we’ve got you covered.

Keep Your Cool

The first thing to do is to stay calm. Of course, this may not be exactly the easiest thing to do when things don’t go as planned but you should try and remain calm because you still don’t know what the reason for the delay is and how long until the problem is resolved.

You’re much more likely to solve the issue if you keep your composure than if you panic. This easier said than done step may not sound like much. But, it’s definitely helpful once you’re stressed and have to handle the issue.

Double-Check the Deal

The second thing to do when your movers are late is to take your contract and check if the arrival time is estimated or not. Why should you do this? Because your contract may state that movers will arrive, for example, between 10 am and 11 am, while you may be waiting for them at 9 am.

Always check the time you agreed to in the contract to make sure they’re really late and it’s not about the misunderstanding. In case your contract clearly states the timeframe but your movers are nowhere to be seen, go ahead and follow the next step.

Call Movers

After you’ve made sure that your movers are indeed late, it’s time to give them a call and find out what’s holding them. In case you don’t have their number saved, just check their website and find a phone number. As long as you’ve hired a reputable mover (and we sincerely hope that you did), reaching them shouldn’t be a problem.

Ask for an Explanation and Specific Info

Upon contacting the moving company, it is imperative to request pertinent information regarding your move. Begin by introducing yourself and providing a detailed explanation of the situation. It is recommended to inquire about the specific arrival time of the movers, without placing too much emphasis on the rationale behind their schedule.

Obtaining this information is of utmost importance, and it is advised to remain on the line until a definitive time frame has been established for the arrival of the moving crew.

React Depending on the Info

Once you have a new expected time of crew arriving, it’s time to improvise and use that extra time depending on the info you get. For example, if your movers are arriving in the next 15 minutes, there’s no need to change your plans or move to another task. But in case they’re arriving in a couple of hours, you can get back to your things and make a few checks.

See if your essentials bag has everything you need. Check if your valuables are separated from the rest of your belongings. Check if pathways are clear, if everything is ready to go, etc. In case movers won’t be arriving until the next day, even though it’s highly inconvenient, you’ll still have to improvise and adjust your schedule.

Take Action

Hopefully, you’ll never have to deal with an issue in this manner. But, if you’re unable to get in touch with movers for a few days, it’s time to react and notify authorities about your situation. Go ahead and contact the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) at 1-888-DOT-SAFT (1-888- 368-7238) Monday – Friday 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Eastern Time to seek advice on what you are expected to do next. In case your mover is asking for cash to deliver your items, you’ve clearly been a victim of fraud. You should contact the police before calling FMSCA.

In case you’re involved in a moving scam but you’re not happy with the service, make sure to leave a moving review. Be honest and describe your situation with all the details. Your review can help another customer know about your inconvenience. MyMovingReviews and Yelp are some of the reliable moving company reviews websites.

If you’re looking for a licensed and reliable moving company, check out Big Apple movers. We’re at your service and we’ll provide a Brooklyn moving quote completely free of charge.

How to Avoid Property Damage When Moving Out

Posted on 08/25/202107/31/2023 by BigApple

Different moving strategies are an important part of safe relocation and combining safe techniques with moving equipment will bring you the best results. There’s no reason to pay for repairs after you move out – it’s much better to protect your house and avoid property damage.

Taking precautionary measures is a must when you’re moving house, and in the following text, we’ll guide you through a few easy steps you should take to avoid damage. To guard your home against harm, you’ll combine simple techniques with affordable materials.

In general, floors are usually affected the most by moving because they’re subject to scratching and scraping and they’re instantly damages if an item is dropped. While protecting your floors is the first step to avoid property damage when moving out, there are other things you should do to make sure your home is intact.

If you’re wondering how to do so, we’ve got you covered. Carry on reading to learn how to keep your home intact when moving.

Protect Floor And Walls

It only makes sense that floors are the most damaged surface of your property because it’s inevitable to push things across the premises and often drop something. Thus, it’s important to protect floors when moving.

Hardwood floors are especially sensitive if they’re polished and repairing them is very expensive, so it’s a much better option to cover them. Plastic films are the most efficient covering, but you can also use cardboard – use flattened moving boxes and tape them together to create efficient floor protection.

If you don’t have professional materials or cardboard boxes, be creative and cover your floors using anything in your household you can spare – consider old blankets, towels, sheets, clothes, etc. The only thing you need to pay attention to is that your floors are not slippery because you want to prevent accidents.

Besides covering your floors, you should also take precautions and avoid sliding furniture across the floor − you should always use a moving dolly instead. It will save you the trouble of carrying heavy items but it will also be greatly beneficial to your floors.

Walls make such a big part of any apartment so protecting a large surface like that is a must when you want to avoid property damage. Go ahead and tape thick paper, towels, blankets, or clothes to screen the walls and keep them from getting damaged. Also, your corners should be protected, so check out corner guards for a quick and effective solution.

Protect Stairs And Doors

The next area of your home you should protect when moving are stairs and banisters. Banisters often get damaged when big items are being carried down the stairs, so you have to use moving blankets or another material to wrap them. Stairs should also be covered for property protection but for your safety as well – make sure that covers are anti-slippery.

Next, you should pay attention to doors because frames often get damaged while taking things out. To make sure you don’t harm any doors while moving, go ahead and use door frame guards or foam paddings for best results.

Plan Ahead

Before you start taking boxes and bulky items to your moving truck, take some time to make a plan. To do so, you’ll have to measure your space and your furniture pieces and plan the exit strategy. The reason for that is because you want to make sure that your furniture can fit through the doors, otherwise, you may need to consider taking the doors out until you pass with bulky items.

Clear the Space

Once you’re sure your furniture fits through the doors, you have to take a look at the rest of the space and check for obstructions. Your way out should be clear because you don’t want to trip over something, so make sure to remove any objects that could get in your way while you’re lifting and carrying your household items.

Take Your Time

A golden rule that will help you protect property and your health – never rush! Even though you certainly want to complete the moving process as fast as possible, there’s no use in rushing things and risking an injury. It’s was better to take your time and make slow but safe steps.

Empty and Dismantle

To make moving easier and minimize the risk of damage when moving out, dismantle and empty whatever possible. That means taking apart your bulky pieces of furniture, emptying drawers and moving them separately, etc. You’ll have smaller and lighter pieces which makes them safer for transportation.

Avoid Heavy Lifting

Eventually, it’s not only about protecting the property when you’re moving out, remember that you’re the most important part of your relocation. Never try to lift an item that’s too heavy for one person, otherwise, you may risk a serious injury and nothing is worth that. Wear protection including gloves, a hat, closed-toe shoes, and always make safety your top priority. If you’re performing a DIY move, always find a few helping hands and hire moving labor in case you don’t have any available friends.

Nominate a spotter

Last, but not least, you should have a person watch you and warn you in case you’re about to do something unsafe or cause damage to your property. They can quickly remove the obstacle you’re about to trip over or tell you how many steps you have left.

Hopefully, our tips will help you prevent property damage when moving out. Leaving your place in good condition is much cheaper than finding time and money for repairs, so you better guard your home against harm. If you don’t have the time or energy to deal with additional moving tasks, hiring an NYC moving company may be the best solution. Professional movers have the experience and necessary equipment to keep your home intact while moving. Big Apple is at your service – contact us anytime to get a moving price.

Where To Donate Your Stuff Before Moving

Posted on 07/28/202108/22/2023 by BigApple

Are you currently contemplating a relocation? It is highly probable that you will soon come to the realization that you possess a surplus of items that are not in use. This predicament is not as significant as the ultimate cost of your move, which will be determined by the quantity of items you choose to relocate to your new abode. Specifically, the cost of relocation is typically based on the weight of your possessions, among other factors.

Consequently, the more items you intend to relocate, the more exorbitant the cost of your relocation will be. To circumvent this issue and extend a helping hand to those in need, it is advisable to donate your belongings prior to your move. You may be wondering where to donate your possessions before relocating. Numerous organizations are willing to accept your items and utilize the proceeds to aid those in need. The subsequent text will provide you with information on where to donate your belongings before your move.

Goodwill

Goodwill accepts new or like-new furniture, cars, dishes, accessories. This organization has partnered with Dell so they accept electronics as well. Their main purpose is to fund education and training, so they will sell the items you donate at their auction sites and use them for this purpose.

The fact that they have more than 3,200 stores all around the country makes it convenient to donate to this non-profit organization. Just make sure to check whether your nearest Goodwill store offers a pick-up service or you have to drop off your items.

Habitat for Humanity

Habitat for Humanity is a non-profit organization that endeavors to construct new homes for individuals who are in dire need. They welcome donations of furniture, household items, cars, electronics, building materials, appliances, and other similar items. Nevertheless, to ensure that all categories of items intended for donation are accepted, it is highly recommended to contact the organization beforehand and locate the nearest ReStore outlet.

They offer a free pick-up which is again quite convenient as you won’t have to go through any trouble finding them. They are present in 50 states, so once you decide to donate to this organization it will not be hard to reach them. Not only will you reduce the cost of your relocation by donating stuff before you move, but you will also actively participate in building someone else`s home.

Baby2baby

Watching your kids grow is perhaps the most beautiful thing in the world. Years go by so quickly and we are often unaware of just how many items they have outgrown during that time. If you don`t have anyone around you planning or expecting a baby, donating to the Baby2baby organization is one of the noblest things you can do.

Your child`s crib, clothes, car seats, blankets, chairs, and other items will become the most favorite things of some other child in need. These items will go directly to shelters and families in need. Every child deserves to have all that it needs for a happy childhood and your kids` items may be just that.

Pickup Please

With this organization, you can rest assured that someone will come and pick up your items within 24 hours. Not only this by they will give you a receipt for a tax deduction as well. By donating your household items to this organization, you will help Vietnam Veterans of America. Just know that they don`t accept large furniture, rather small items such as nightstands or chairs.

But, as we mentioned before, the best thing you can do is to call them and check which items they do and do not accept, then schedule your donation via Pickup Please.

The Arc

The Arc is a charitable organization that provides assistance to individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities. It is possible to make donations of books, clothing, electronics, kitchen appliances, and other items to this organization, which offers a complimentary pick-up service. Disposing of unwanted or unneeded items presents a significant opportunity to aid those who are unable to care for themselves.

By engaging in philanthropic activities, one may experience a heightened sense of motivation to assist others in their daily lives. The possibilities are limitless, and contributing items is an excellent way to begin.

Shelters for Homeless

Shelters for the homeless people are places where you can donate your stuff before moving. They accept furniture, household items, appliances, and other items you have and want to donate. The items will go straight to the ones in need, and you will certainly provide a better commodity for people who don`t have homes. There are many organizations with noble causes, but if you have a homeless shelter nearby, you should donate the items you have right there.

Donate to Theaters

Theatres, especially amateur theaters, are often in the need of furniture or other household items to set up a realistic scene in their plays. This is a great contribution and encouragement to young people who want to act and give their public the best experience they can. It would be fun to see your items in a play knowing that they got a new purpose.

Schools and Libraries

If you have books or electronic devices, visit nearby schools and libraries. Ask whether they would accept donations and state which editions of books you have. If they are in good condition, most libraries and schools will accept them.

Donate to Friends and Family

Finally, you don`t have to always donate to a certain organization. Or you can choose to donate some of your items to some charity, and others to another charity. The possibilities are countless here, but we suggest you don`t forget your closest ones. Perhaps some of your friends or family members would be thrilled to have some of your books, or plants. Consult with them about the items you don`t need or use anymore and you will be surprised about the answers.

What About the Items You Are Sentimentally Attached To?

There are plenty of items in your home that you are sentimentally attached to. We understand this, but you should only keep the items you will be using and get rid of non-functional items as soon as possible. We live in a materialistic world, where you can easily replace your items. Your memories will be alive in you and your dear friends, there is no need to hold onto the mere objects so much. Instead, let others enjoy them.

We hope you will find this guide helpful when deciding where to donate your stuff before moving. If you have any questions or need any help from the professional Brooklyn movers, don’t hesitate to contact us.

9 Items That Require Climate-Controlled Storage

Posted on 07/03/202108/01/2023 by BigApple

Most companies nowadays advertise another type of storage besides a traditional one, and that’s climate-controlled storage. These units are more expensive than regular ones but they still grow in popularity for various benefits they provide. Climate-controlled units are beneficial if you’re storing certain types of items, if you live in an area with extreme heat or cold, if your storage is in a humid area, etc.

Your belongings can be affected by all sorts of things while they’re being stored. That includes pests, rodents, dust, mildew, moisture, etc. So how do you keep your possessions in top shape and avoid damage? The answer is often – a climate-controlled storage unit. In the following text, we’ll go over the basics that you should know about climate-controlled storage and we’ll cover the 9 items that require climate-controlled storage.

What is Climate Controlled Storage?

Climate-controlled storage units are also known as temperature-controlled storage units. Among different types of storage solutions, climate-controlled storage units are designed to keep humidity and temperature at optimum. They are placed indoors and secured. That makes them safer for you and your belongings.

They use HVAC systems to keep the best conditions for your possessions. That includes heating, ventilation, A/C, customizable thermostats, dehumidifiers & heavy-duty insulation. Some factors can help you decide if you need this type of facility. Since it is a bit more expensive than the regular one, you may hesitate before renting it.

Firstly, think about the time. Do you need to store your things for a couple of days or weeks, or you plan on keeping them in storage for a prolonged period? If you just need a quick solution, then short-term storage will probably be enough. Or, if you plan on using the storage for a long time, it may be better to go for a climate-controlled unit.

Next, think about the area where you live. Is it extremely hot, cold, or humid? If the answer is yes, you’ll probably benefit from a climate-controlled space. That way you’ll protect your items from extreme temperatures and high humidity. Lastly, consider the item type. Not all items require optimum conditions to stay in their best shape.

Items That Require Climate-Controlled Storage

The following list covers some of the items that require climate-controlled storage. But, this is not an exhaustive list. There are more items that would greatly benefit from it. If you’re not sure whether your possessions need optimum conditions, ask your storage company for some advice. In some cases, traditional storage facilities will be enough to keep your things safe.

Wooden Furniture

In addition to temperature regulation, climate-controlled storage units offer the added benefit of humidity control. The presence of moisture can cause significant damage to wooden furniture, making it imperative to maintain optimal humidity levels. Failure to do so may result in cracking, warping, and even rotting of the wood. Climate-controlled units are particularly advantageous for storing other wooden items such as dressers and bed frames.

Leather Items

If you live in an area that has extreme temperature changes, then renting a traditional storage unit is not the best option. Leather items can be extremely sensitive to temperature changes. It’s safest to keep them in areas with optimum conditions. Especially if you have expensive pieces of leather furniture or other valuable leather items.

Musical Instruments

Musical instruments are commonly regarded as a significant investment, and as such, it is imperative to ensure their optimal condition. Given their delicate nature, it is essential to provide them with appropriate conditions to preserve their value. Climate-controlled storage units are the most effective means of safeguarding instruments from damage. It is worth noting that humidity and extreme temperatures can adversely affect the integrity of musical instruments, as with other valuable items.

Household Appliances

Improper storage of household appliances may result in the development of rust, mildew, cracks, or other issues. To ensure the longevity of your dishwasher, dryer, washer, refrigerator, or any other household appliance, it is recommended to conduct a thorough cleaning and store them in a climate-controlled storage facility.

Artwork

Another thing you should keep in a climate-controlled unit is a piece of artwork, whether you have an extremely valuable piece or your artwork has an emotional value. To keep your artwork in top shape, store them in units that have optimum temperature conditions and regulated humidity levels.

Besides works of art, your craft supplies should also be stored properly if you want to maintain their quality. For example, sewing machines, fabrics, and other supplies can be damaged by moisture, dust, rodents, UV exposure, so it’s best if you keep them in controlled conditions.

Photographs

When storing stacks of photographs, it is imperative to exercise caution and avoid exposing them to heat, as they are susceptible to fading or fusing together. To ensure their preservation, it is recommended to store photographs in a climate-controlled storage unit.

Clothing

Rather than purchasing seasonal clothing and incurring significant expenses, it is advisable to preserve them and retrieve them from storage as needed. Prior to storing, ensure that your clothing is thoroughly cleaned and dried, and store it in a climate-controlled environment. For optimal outcomes, opt for plastic containers instead of cardboard ones.

Business Documents

If you have any business documents or other paperwork you want to keep out of home, renting a climate-controlled storage unit may be a great solution. By doing so, you’ll keep them away from humidity and extreme temperatures and have them unchanged when you need them.

Electronics

Electronic equipment is extremely sensitive and can get damaged if exposed to heat, temperature shifts, humidity, etc. Keeping your electronics in a traditional storage unit is not a good idea, so go for a climate-controlled one in this case.

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