Whether you’re relocating for a new job, downsizing, or seeking a change of scenery, the process of moving can often feel overwhelming. The stress of searching for a new place and then contending with all your belongings is daunting and downright exhausting.

The answer to a less stressful move could be finding the right combination of moving and storage services. In this guide, we’ll explore the benefits of consolidating the two biggest tasks of any relocation: what to do with everything and how to get it from the old place to the new one.

Benefits of Using Combined Moving and Storage Services

Before diving into the specifics, it’s important to know the differences between moving services and storage services in the relocation industry. Moving services include everything from protecting your home during the process to packing, wrapping, loading, transporting, and unloading.

Often when you’re planning a move, the new home may not be available until a specific day because of last-minute closing arrangements, lease agreement terms, travel plans, and a host of other factors. In these cases, you’ll need a storage option. Storage services range from self-storage units to portable containers and even expand into options like temperature-controlled storage.

Are you starting to see why combining moving and storage services can make any move easier? Don’t worry, we have more reasons below.

Benefit #1: Convenience

One of the frustrations of moving is always the logistics. A common scenario for moving nightmares looks like this: one company packs up your belongings, another company and crew load them, yet another is responsible for transporting, and another company and crew is responsible for unloading and placing them into storage, only for a different driver and team to pick up and deliver. Your life, in boxes, is vulnerable to damage, misplacement, and more.

You deserve better. Combining moving and storage cuts out all the extra steps and the room for error. One company handles everything from start to finish so not only are you afforded the peace of mind, you’re also off the hook from the hassle of keeping track of receipts, dates, times, and contact information for the moving parts of your relocation.

Benefit #2: Security

When your belongings are placed into a storage facility, you’re getting physical storage security and peace of mind. Facilities and storage containers are locked and often feature 24-hour surveillance.

Benefit #3: Flexibility

One reason moving is so stressful is the myriad of factors that can affect each step. As we mentioned, sometimes storage options are necessary because of closing dates, lease agreement terms, travel setbacks, and more. When combining moving and storage, you’re increasing the flexibility of your move. Storage options can be basic, climate controlled, temperature controlled, long-term, or short-term.

Benefit #4: Cost-Effectiveness

While it’s never a guarantee, some companies offer lower rates for combined moving and storage options. However, even if this isn’t the case, you’re most likely to still save money. Since the services are streamlined, you won’t be stuck paying multiple companies for services and labor, plus tax.

Tips For Packing For Storage

As with every type of move, preparation is the key you can control to help the process go as smoothly as possible. For every move, it’s important to declutter a few months ahead of time, use the right packing materials, and schedule services ahead of time.

When packing your belongings for storage, these guidelines still apply, but there are some other considerations, too.

#1 Decide On The Type of Storage

How you pack for storage will depend on the type of storage you need. Short-term storage is typically 3-months or less while long-term storage is anything over 3-months. Long-term storage is a great option for when you are unsure about timelines and short-term storage is a great option for situations like waiting for closing day.

#2 Consider Storage Containers

Plastic storage containers like totes and even some furniture can be a great investment for keeping your belongings organized in storage. Rather than keeping track of too many boxes that can take up extra space (especially when space may be limited), stacking containers and plastic drawers helps condense and organize.

#3 Clean, Clean, Clean

What’s worse than spending all day unpacking than being faced with the aggravation of having to clean everything before putting it away? Cleaning your belongings thoroughly beforehand can be a real time saver. This also applies to the storage unit. Cleaning the inside of the unit (when possible), helps cut down on dirt, debris, and dust so you’re ready to go.

#4 Keep An Inventory List

Although a professional moving company will keep an inventory list, it’s important to have one for yourself, especially when using a storage unit. Every-day items are easy to keep track of, but some items (we’re thinking of seasonal decor, outdoor belongings, and those once-in-a-while tools from the garage) can be easy to overlook. Creating and maintaining an inventory list before your belongings go into storage simplifies the process because you’ll be able to double-check everything.

#5 Disassemble Larger Items

Disassembling large items like home gym equipment, beds and bed frames, or shelving units are a great way to ensure you’re protecting those items and utilizing the space in your storage facility efficiently. When disassembling items, keep a designated “parts box” for smaller pieces that is labeled for ease and to ensure no parts are lost in the process.

#6 Label Everything

In addition to keeping these pieces together, make sure to label all containers and boxes. It’s a good idea to be as specific as possible when labeling items. Not only will this help with the inventory and organization, it’ll also make it easier when it’s time to unload and unpack.

Moving and Storage Company in South Florida

One of the most critical aspects of any move is choosing the right professional company. Allegiance Van Lines LLC can ensure you’re move is smooth and your belongings are protected every step of the way. We are committed to moving you with care.

Call today, 561-210-5120 for a free quote on your upcoming move.