What to Consider When Storing Your Valuables

When it comes to storing your valuables, whether it’s important documents, jewelry, or sentimental items, careful consideration is essential to ensure their safety and preservation. Whether you are planning to store items at home or in a storage facility, here are some key factors to keep in mind to make the best choices for your specific needs.

Identify Your Valuables

Before you can make decisions about storage, it’s important to identify and categorize your valuables. This process involves taking inventory of your items, assessing their value, and determining their fragility or susceptibility to damage. Consider creating a detailed list of your valuables, including descriptions, photographs, and estimated values. This inventory will not only help you with storage decisions but also serve as valuable documentation for insurance purposes.

Determine Storage Needs

Once you have a clear understanding of your valuables, assess your storage needs. Consider the following factors:

Security

Security is paramount when storing valuables. Evaluate the security features of potential storage options, whether it’s a home safe, a bank safety deposit box, or a portable storage container. Look for options with robust locks, security systems, and 24/7 surveillance.

Climate Control

Some valuables, such as artwork, electronics, and sensitive documents, may require climate-controlled storage to protect them from temperature and humidity fluctuations. Assess whether climate control is necessary for your items.

Accessibility

Consider how often you need access to your valuables. If you require frequent access, a home-safe or easily accessible storage solution may be more suitable. For items you rarely need, a secure off-site storage option might be better.

Size of Items

The size of your valuables will dictate the type of storage you need. Some items may fit in a small safe, while others, like furniture or large collectibles, may require larger storage spaces.

Long-Term vs. Short-Term

Determine whether your storage needs are short-term or long-term. Short-term storage might involve storing items during a renovation, while long-term storage could be for items you want to preserve for generations.

Choose the Right Storage Solutions

Based on your storage needs, you can explore various storage solutions:

Home Safes

Home safes are ideal for storing small to medium-sized valuables like jewelry, cash, and important documents. Just ensure your safe is fireproof and securely bolted to the floor or wall for added security.

Safety Deposit Boxes

Bank safety deposit boxes provide a high level of security for documents, jewelry, and small items, although it’s important to note they may have limited accessibility hours, so plan accordingly.

Portable Storage

UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Boise has sturdy portable storage containers that come in various sizes depending on how much storage space you need. They also offer a secure, climate-controlled facility for both short-term and long-term storage needs. 

Organize and Label

Once you’ve selected your storage solution, it’s crucial to organize and label your items effectively. Use sturdy containers, labels, and packing materials to protect your valuables from damage during storage. Proper organization makes it easier to locate specific items when needed.

Insurance Coverage

Regardless of where you store your valuables, consider obtaining insurance coverage to protect against unexpected events like theft, fire, or natural disasters. Review your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy and inquire about additional coverage options if necessary.

Regular Maintenance

Don’t forget about regular maintenance of your storage solutions. Check the condition of your safes, safety deposit boxes, or portable storage containers periodically to ensure they remain secure and in good working order.

Storing your valuables requires careful planning and consideration of various factors, including security, climate control, accessibility, and insurance. By taking the time to assess your needs and select the appropriate storage solutions, you can ensure the safety and preservation of your most cherished possessions for years to come. Remember to regularly review and update your storage arrangements as your needs and circumstances change to maintain the security and protection of your valuables.

Need help with storage? For more information, visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Boise or call (208) 487-6710.

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