A New Business Venture

A New Business Venture

Moving Overseas? These Storage Tips Can Help

by Erin Mitchell

Moving overseas, whether for a few months or for a few years, can be stressful. Don't let dealing with the belongings that you have to leave behind add to that stress. Most items can survive long-term storage just fine if you take the time to pack them and store them correctly.

Tip #1: Store Only the Essentials

The longer your planned relocation, the less essentials you need to store. For example, if you will be overseas for less than a year, it makes sense to store most of your household goods and furnishings. The cost of replacing these upon your return will far outweigh any storage fees.

On the other hand, if you will be gone for several years, or are leaving on an open-ended contract, you may not want to store every item you own. Instead, only store those items that have sentimental value, or are too expensive to replace easily. Everything else, from the microwave to the couch, can easily be replaced once you return state-side.

Tip #2: Organize Your Unit

You may not be planning to open your unit for months, or even years, but that doesn't mean you should just stuff items in willy-nilly. An unorganized unit is more likely to attract pests. Items are also more likely to shift and become damaged. You may also need to send a friend or family member into the unit at some point to find an important document or item.

Stack items neatly in well-labeled boxes and containers. Line the unit with pallets so nothing sits directly on the floor. Also, arrange items in rows or aisles – this makes it easier to access items stored near the rear of the unit.

Tip #3: Avoid Storage Problems

Long-term storage comes with some risks. The following will help you avoid the main potential problems:

  • Do not store food items and make sure all kitchen implements are completely clean so you don't attract pests.

  • Cover wood items and furniture with breathable cloth sheets or moving blankets. This protects them from dust and damage. Skip plastic covers – these can attract moisture.

  • Store clothing in plastic tubs or bags. Include silica gel packets in the boxes to prevent moisture from causing mildew.

  • Avoid placing items against the walls of the unit. Moisture can sometimes leak through the walls and damage your items.

  • Use insect traps in your unit, even if you don't notice a pest problem. Sometimes, problems can move into a unit near yours, so you will want to ensure they don't spread to your space.

  • Use moth balls or similar products to protect wool, cotton, and other natural fibers from damage during storage.

Tip #4: Don't Forget Your Wheels

In most cases, you'll likely sell your car if you're relocating overseas for more than a year. If you do opt to keep it, you probably want to look at an enclosed storage unit. Make sure vehicles are allowed. The best case scenario is to have someone check on the car and drive it for a short time every month. If this isn't possible, you will need to have a mechanic prepare the vehicle for long term storage. This usually involves removing the tires so the tread doesn't flatten, adding stabilizers to the fluids and gas tanks, and attaching a trickle charger to the battery so it doesn't die.

Remember to check with your employer before renting your unit if you are being transferred overseas. Many cover or offset storage costs. You may also be able to claim some of the expense on your taxes if it's associated with a work-related move. Facilities like U S Storage Inc offer a variety of storage options to meet your needs, so check them out today.


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About Me

A New Business Venture

For the past several years, my friend worked as a waitress at a local restaurant. Although she enjoyed her job, she started to want to do something different with her life. After some research, she decided to start a new business. She began purchasing storage units. After buying them, she inspects the inventory in them. She then sells the inventory on the internet. So far, she’s enjoying her new career as an entrepreneur. She’s always amazed at the type of items she finds in the storage units she buys. On this blog, you will discover how to start a new business venture by selling inventory found in purchased storage units.