You have just inherited a house full of belongings from your parents. You have a mountain of furniture, keepsakes, and boxes that is beyond belief. Right now, it's in your garage, your basement, and is threatening to take over your entire home. This could be a time to have a nervous breakdown. There is, however, another option. Take a deep breath and relax. You can handle this and a storage unit is the best way to do so.
Do your homework and find out about the different storage facilities available in your area. Visit several and decide which one is the best fit. You'll want to choose a place that is clean, well-maintained, well-lit at night, and - most importantly - is secure. Don't pick a place that is off the beaten path and therefore vulnerable to vandals. If you're doing your homework right, you'll find a facility that offers a variety of units in different sizes. Determine what size you will need for all of your newly acquired items.
Before you move things in, prepare the unit. It's best to put a plastic tarp on the ground to avoid damage from moisture and condensation, if you opt for a unit that is not air conditioned. You can also use wooden pallets to stack things. Next, go through your items and pack them neatly. Mark boxes, use plenty of padding on fragile pieces, and make sure to take special care with anything that should not become damp. Plastic totes are excellent when it comes to storing items in a storage unit.
As you pack, you'll be able to determine what you want at home. This is a great way to organize and whittle down anything that can go. You might want to hold a garage sale for some of the excess, make donations, or decide some things can go to the trash heap. Take your time. Your storage unit is yours for as long as you need it. Bring a load of things every weekend until everything is taken care of. Arrange things systematically so you'll know where to find them when you need them. Take a deep breath and pat yourself on the back. When all is said and done you’ll have a storage unit full of well-maintained treasures.
