Orchid Moves’ Comprehensive Guide to Preparing Your Items for Storage

Storing your belongings while moving can feel like sending your kids off to university - you want them safe, but having an empty nest can be emotional! Luckily, the packing pros at Orchid Moves are like the perfect roommates, keeping your items secure until you’re ready for your sentimental reunion.  

This guide covers everything from prepping items for storage to accessing them smoothly when needed again. With Orchid's customised packing, inventory, and maintenance, your belongings will be safe and sound. Who said moving had to be stressful? Let's get your items storage-ready!

Key Takeaways: 

• Like a protective parent, pack items securely to avoid storage scrapes. If you need extra hands, Orchid Moves has plenty! 

• Pick storage solutions wisely - we’ll recommend the best spots based on the volume of your items, location and timeframe. Consider us a 5-star travel agency for your belongings! 

• We transport items with care, so they avoid the bumps and bruises of moving day. 

• An organised system with labels means quickly reuniting with stored belongings when you need them. 

Understanding Different Storage Needs 

Why might you need storage? Here are some common situations: 

• Remodelling or downsizing - keep your items safe until your new space is ready. 

• Moving abroad or into a furnished space - store your treasures until you settle in for the long haul.  

• Protecting seasonal items like holiday décor when not in use. 

• Stashing business supplies if you’re in between offices. 

We’ll guide you on the proper storage prep for your specific items. Your fine china or premium linens will need more TLC than those boxes of files.

Pre-Storage Preparation: A Checklist 

Before your belongings go into storage, some preparation is key. Follow this list so things go smoothly: 

• Sort your items - part with what you can toss, donate, or sell before storing the essentials. 

• Clean everything before packing to prevent mould, bugs, or any suspicious smells. 

• Photograph valuables as proof of ownership for insurance (a helpful tip even when not storing items)!  

• Categorise boxes and furniture for organised loading and unloading.  

• Label it all clearly so you know what’s what when it’s time to reunite. 

With comprehensive preparation, storing and reclaiming your belongings will be a breeze! 

Packing and Wrapping Services by Orchid Moves 

Attempting to pack and wrap items yourself can damage your precious cargo - not to mention exhausting and stressful! Avoid mishaps with our professionally trained packers. We’ll gently wrap and secure items for safety in storage with: 

• Specialty boxes and dividers so items stay snug as a bug in a rug. 

• Cushion-Craft, wrapping paper and bubblewrap to protect delicate objects. 

• Humidity pads for moisture-prone storage situations. 

• Reinforced tape to keep out dust.  

• Labels with contents and dates for easy identification. 

With a well structured packing process, your items will come out of storage looking fab!  

Choosing the Right Storage Solutions 

Orchid Moves has cultivated relationships with the most reputable storage companies: 

• Short-term – Nearby units for flexible access when you need it. 

• Long-term – Climate controlled spaces to prevent damage from humidity and temps.  

• Specialised - Options for wine, artwork, or equipment. VIP treatment! 

• Business – Secure spots with inventory management.  

Talk to us about your situation and together we’ll find storage solutions that fit you like a glove! 

Loading and Transporting to Storage 

Getting items to storage safely takes the right tools and care. Our pro movers will: 

• Use dollies, ramps, and lifts to load gently into climate-controlled trucks. 

• Wrap furniture in blankets and secure it snugly so no bumps or scratches.  

• Separate fragile stuff to prevent storage scrapes. 

• Transport along optimised routes so items take the smoothest ride possible.  

We’ve got this transport thing down to a science to keep your belongings intact!  

Accessing Your Items 

To easily find that favourite painting or winter coat when you need it again:  

• Group like items together – books in one spot, seasonal decor in another. 

• Leave aisles so you can walk right in and access things. 

• Positions frequently needed stuff near the door for grab and go ease.  

• Attach an index to note where each item can be found. 

We can assist with access anytime – just give us a ring! A little mid-storage visit to check on your items gives peace of mind. 

Storage Care and Maintenance 

Use these tips to keep belongings in great shape: 

• Polish wood furniture and use pads to avoid scuffs. Cover with blankets. 

• Clean electronics, remove dust, and add moisture absorbers.  

• Check regularly for pests and place traps. Keep areas clean! 

• Use cedar and acid-free tissue for fabrics to prevent yellowing. 

• Have Orchid’s experts do periodic inspections for any problems.  

With proper care, items will stay in pristine shape until your someday reunion! 

Let’s recap some common storage questions: 

1. How does Orchid ensure the safety of my stuff? Our pros pack securely in quality materials and select facilities with security systems. Items are continually insured. 

1. Can I access items anytime? Yes! With notice we can facilitate access during business hours. Some units allow self-service. Just call when needing items moved.  

1. What’s the best way to pack fragile items? Use generous cushioning materials. Tape boxes securely. Place delicate stuff on top. Clearly labelled as fragile. 

1. How do I decide what to store? Prioritise essential, frequently used items. Store pieces used less often. Ask yourself if you’ll realistically need the item again. 

Let's Wrap This Up 

Storing your goods properly requires strategy. Orchid Moves is committed to total care - customised packing, optimal storage conditions, and maintenance. We treat your belongings like close family! Reach out for personalised guidance tailored precisely to your situation. Your items are in good hands with us. 

Share Your Storage Stories! 

Have tips or funny stories from prepping items for storage? Moving can be emotional - it’s always good to share a laugh and helpful advice! Leave a comment below about your experiences.  

Time to Get Moving! 

Let Orchid Moves handle storage from A to Z - packing, transportation, units, and beyond. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Call 031-765 3825 or email info@orchidmoves.com. We’re ready to make storage a breeze so you can focus on the exciting chapter ahead!