Self storage is a growing industry as more and more people are living in smaller homes which is creating an ongoing need for additional storage solutions. This is leading to more people needing long term storage. Using storage in a long term capacity can have many benefits. 

What is Long Term Storage?

Long term storage is typically defined as the use of any type of storage space for a time period that is anything more than 3 months. Long term storage is often used by businesses storing stock and equipment but it does also have many domestic uses. 

Many people use long term storage in order to store seasonal clothing or whilst they are travelling for an extended period. 

It differs from short term storage as short term storage is usually used for 3 months or under. Short term storage is often used during a house or business move or by students during the summer months. 

Top 5 Benefits of Long Term Storage

There are many benefits to choosing long term storage. Here we are going to discuss the top 5. 

Space Optimisation at Home or Office

Clutter can have a detrimental effect on our mental health, our productivity and our peace of mind. Having a cluttered home or work space can lead to you experiencing feelings of stress and overwhelm. Clutter also makes it harder to focus and lowers levels of productivity. Researchers from Princeton University have found that having multiple stimuli in your line of sight whilst working will significantly lower your productivity. 

Removing clutter through the use of long term storage will allow you to optimise your home and work space, allowing you to focus on your work, stay productive and lower your stress levels. 

Protection and Preservation of Valuables

Long term storage will allow you to keep your belongings safe and protected. Storage facilities are commonly fitted with state-of-the-art security systems such as intruder alarms and CCTV. In each of our stores, we have 24/7 CCTV and each of our units is equipped with an intruder alarm, a fire detector and a smoke detector. 

Climate controlled units are also very important when it comes to preserving certain items such as electronics, furniture and artwork as these are all items that need a constant level of humidity and a constant temperature. 

Cost-Effectiveness Over Time

Renting storage over a long term period will prove to be cost-effective in comparison to moving to a bigger home. House prices are constantly increasing with the average price of a UK home rising by 1.7% in the 12 months to June 2023. 

Along with the increasing price of houses, the bigger your home the more expensive it will be to run. The electricity cost for a two-bedroom home is around £353 a year compared to £1,144 for a four-bedroom home. 

Many storage facilities may also offer discounts or promotions for the customers who are opting for long term storage. 

Reduces the Risk of Losing Items

Using professional storage will mitigate the risk of losing items or having items stolen in comparison to storing your excess belongings at your home in a garage or a shed as storage facilities are equipped with high level security systems. 

Flexibility and Accessibility of Long Term Storage

Within many storage facilities, there is the option to access your storage unit when you need to. Some of our own stores offer extended opening hours, allowing you to access your stored items outside of our office hours. To see if your local store offers these extended hours, please head to our website. 

Long term storage can come with some worries about being trapped in a storage space that no longer fits your needs. It is important to look for long term storage that is flexible, allowing you to change your storage unit based on your evolving needs. In every one of our stores, you will find this type of flexibility. 

Tips for Making the Most Out of Long Term Storage

To truly get the most out of your long term storage, you will want to choose the right unit for your needs. Obviously, if you rent your unit with us, you will be able to move to a different unit if your needs change, but if this can be avoided, that will benefit you as moving large amounts of storage will take a lot of time and effort. 

It is also important that you pack your items in an efficient manner. Make sure that your furniture is prepped in a way that will keep it protected. Wrap any breakable items in bubble wrap before placing them in a box. Do not overfill or underfill boxes. And when it comes to putting all the items into your storage, arrange them so heavier items are at the bottom. 

You will also want to make periodic checks to make sure that all of your belongings are safe and secure and that nothing has changed within your unit.  

Is Long Term Storage The Right Solution for You?

Long term storage will be the right solution for you if you are in need of storing items for an extended period of time, 3 months or longer. It will allow you to get better peace of mind at home and at work, all of your belongings will be fully protected and it is much more cost-effective than moving to a larger home or business space. 

If you find that you are in need of storage, it will be highly beneficial for you to consider whether long term storage might be the best option. 

If you would like to know more about our long term storage options, please head to our website to find your local store.