When you have items you need to put in storage for more than a month or so, you need to make sure you properly prepare those items for storage. Long-term storage can be a great solution if you need to put things away for a while.

Thing #1: Only Store Items You Really Value

First, you want to make sure you are only storing items that have real value. You don't want to store items that are essentially junk or worthless to you. Storing junk and worthless items reduces the available space you have and costs you money.

For example, do you need to store that broken computer you already backed up on an external hard drive? Do you need to store clothing you have not worn in five years? Do you need to store that broken end table that you never liked anyway?

Only store items that you would miss if they were gone and items that you actively use. Donate or throw away the rest.

Thing #2: Properly Pack Each Item

Second, it is important to take the time to properly package each item. That means cleaning the item off, wrapping it up, and boxing it with similar items. Some items may need a little more care and attention than others. For example, once clean, you can basically stuff as many blankets in a box as you can. With the glass plates in your kitchen, you are going to want to carefully wrap each plate individually before placing it in the box.

Be sure to also carefully label each box. This will make it easier to find items and will allow you to know which boxes contain fragile items and should be handled with a little more care.

Thing #3: Use a Climate Controlled Storage Unit

Finally, when you are storing items for a long period of time, it is best to use a climate-controlled storage unit. Being able to control the temperature and humidity of the unit will protect your items from weather-related damage. Everything from electronics to leather to wood can be negatively impacted by big temperature changes, making a climate-controlled storage unit ideal for long-term storage needs.

When it comes to putting items into long-term storage, you should only store items you really want to use later; don't store things you don't care for. Take the time to properly pack each item to keep them safe. Invest in a climate-controlled storage unit in order to protect your belongings.

To learn more, contact a resource like Glaser and Sons Moving.