What Should You Put in Storage When You Move

There are many reasons why people move to a new city: to downsize, be closer to family, to move downtown to the city life, or maybe to get a fresh start! Whatever your reason, you may find yourself needing some transitional short term storage as you move into your new place. It can ease the let-go if you’re downsizing and still determining what you want to get rid of and gives you some extra time to settle in if you’re moving in the midst of busy season.

Here are some tips to help you get organized and decide what might be best to put in storage when you move.

 
Organize things by season
If you’re moving to a new city that experiences all four seasons, you won’t need your snow gear year-round. Likewise, you can pack away your summer gear if you’re moving midwinter and save yourself some space and hassle unpacking. A well-sized storage unit can be a great place to stash your seasonal items until that time of year comes around. If you are packing away a lot of clothes, make sure to choose a storage unit that won’t be subject to a lot of changes in humidity or temperature, and only pack away clean clothes. Otherwise, you’re guaranteed to find an unwelcome mess when you open those boxes again.
 
Hang on to extra furniture that you might want later
Moving into a new home is a great opportunity to redecorate and change up the feng shui of your space. If your current furniture doesn’t perfectly compliment your new home but you’re not sure that you’re ready to sell it, wrap it up and put it in your storage unit. Sectionals, extra end-tables, whatever it might be — you might just find the perfect spot for it in a month or two.
 
Hold on to your keepsakes and mementos
When you really get into the swing of downsizing, it can be easy to think that you don’t really need to keep all of those old photos and mementos. That might be a decision you regret down the road when you realize you can’t get them back, so instead, opt for a high-quality storage unit where you don’t have to worry about water damage or things getting lost during your relocation. If your storage unit doesn’t already have shelves, consider bringing in some portable shelving units and organizing your boxes of keepsakes for easy access when you realize, eventually, that you’re glad you kept them.
 
Those antiques can go into storage, too
Your great-great grandmother’s rocking chair may not really fit the decor of your new home, but you certainly aren’t about to go selling it. Consider having your antiques professionally packed, then bringing them to your storage unit for safe keeping. Be sure you have insurance to cover your heirlooms in case of disaster, and that you choose a storage facility that feels safe and secure. You don’t want to be worrying about that grandfather clock when you’d rather be getting to know your new city.
 
What have you put in storage when you moved, and why? Share in the comments!

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