Self-storage is a great way to free up space in your home, making room for the activities that are important to you, like exercise or hobbies. If you’re joining the nation’s self-storers, take a look at our expert tips before you begin.

Declutter before you store

The best advice we can give you about saving money on your self-storage (after you’ve got a quote from us for your self-storage insurance) is to declutter. If you can’t declutter now, make a plan to revisit your stored goods in a few months to see if you are ready to part with anything.

Don’t store banned goods

Remember to check the list of goods that are not allowed in a storage unit. This can vary between storage companies, but you are usually not allowed to store:

• live animals and plants
• flammable items
• perishable items including food
• rubbish
• illegal items including things that are stolen, counterfeited or smuggled

Make an inventory of everything you want to store

Your self-storage inventory will be help you to work out how much storage space you need. It will also be useful when you come to insure your stored goods. To learn more about making a storage inventory, see our blogpost.

Shop around for the self-storage company that meets your needs

Every storage company has its advantages and disadvantages. When deciding which storage company to use, think about how you will use your stored goods. If you want to put items into storage for the longterm, you might not prioritise a convenient location. But if you will be visiting regularly to bring items in and out of storge, then a storage unit that is easy to access is crucial.

Check the services your storage company provides. Some will deliver your goods to your home, or help with packing your unit. Other storage places have climate-controlled units, 24-hour access or enhanced security. Of course these features will push the price of your monthly storage up, but if they are important to you then go for it!

It’s also worth looking around for specialist storage companies if you have items like wine or fine art to store.

Learn more about finding the right self-storage facility from our article.

Inform yourself about safe lifting

Moving items in and out of storage is a strenuous physical task. If you’re not used to heavy labour, it could leave you with aching muscles or even an injury. Take a moment to learn about safe lifting – The Health and Safety Executive has advice on safe handling. You might need help with moving certain items in and out of storage. Some storage centres have trolleys or other equipment to help with moving, too.

Get quotes to find the best deal on your self-storage insurance

Reputable storage companies will require you to insure your stored goods. Many storage companies will offer you their own insurance. But did you know you’re not obliged to accept that quote? It may be that you can get a better deal, particularly from a specialist self-storage insurer like Store and Insure. Get a quick quote from us to check that you’re not overpaying for your self-storage insurance.