Whether you’re leaving the Los Angeles area or just moving to a smaller place, storing any number of belongings is a helpful part of the process. Using the methods below, you’ll possibly experience a more budget-friendly move; hopefully it will reduce your hassle, too! And luckily, there are many options in Southern California for storing your stuff. Below are five methods for storing your belongings when you need a space.
Shipping Containers
Shipping containers are a great way to store a large number of items because you can send the whole container to the new home or to the person whose stuff it is. They can also be more affordable than a moving truck — especially when you’re moving from west to east. There are a variety of shipping container sizes. Whether you are looking to send a whole house-load of stuff to your ex-spouse or simply need to move a few items, shipping containers are a great way to do it. Not only will the items be safely stored, you can pay a company to haul the entire shipping container without taking anything out.
Thermostat-Controlled Storage Units
If you have records, collectibles, trophies, or other sensitive items, you should take a look into a thermostat-controlled storage unit. These units are put together in a large warehouse that has a temperature control standard. You should keep in mind though that if there is a fire at one of these facilities, the sprinklers might come on. That’s why it’s a good idea to cover your belongings with plastic. This provides a way to safely store sensitive items. While you will need to drive to the storage unit—hopefully is nearby—you can routinely take out whatever you need. When temperature is an issue for your belongings, there are a lot of temperature-controlled storage businesses around the country.
Storage Containers
Storage containers, which are available throughout Southern California, are individual units that house your belongings. They are not shipping containers and they are not climate-controlled units, but they are an affordable option when you’re moving or simply need to store some items for a few months. Another use for these containers is if you run a business and need a place to keep your supplies. Kind of like a shed, storage containers are reasonably priced and fairly easy to access. While it depends on what size you need and whether or not it is a long or short-term solution, storage containers can come in handy when you need them the most. Unfussy, these storage units can house anything that doesn’t need to be in a controlled temperature space.
Use the Garage
If you have garage space and don’t always need to park your car in it, you can utilize the space to store items you don’t need all the time. When you’re lucky enough to have garage space, it’s a great idea to put boxes, antique furniture, and other large, bulky items that you don’t have to have in the house. Garages are typically pretty large and can fit a lot of stuff if you aren’t planning on parking your cars inside them.
Use Someone’s Attic or Basement
In California, attics and basements aren’t very common, but if you know someone who has one you can ask them to store your stuff in their extra space. Sometimes people have an attic they don’t use it all or a big basement they never go down into. Whether you’re planning on moving or need a long-term solution because you live in a small place, asking a friend or family member to use their extra space could be a real help to you. Of course everyone won’t want to help you use it, but if you find someone who is willing you’ll have a discounted storage space at your disposal.
These days we have a lot of stuff. Rents are expensive and space has become something of a commodity. When you are living with too many belongings or are moving and need to downgrade, storage spaces are a great way to get the job done. There are all kinds of different places you can rent to store your belongings, but if you’re lucky enough to have a free space you should use it to your advantage. It’s a luxury that should be utilized. When you need storage space, luckily you have plenty of options.
