Storage Tips to Keep in Mind Before Embarking on Long-Term Travel

While there is true joy in pursuing passions such as travelling, it also comes with its fair share of challenges. Leaving behind the comforts of home, the warmth of familiar faces, and the security of having a defined place in the world, can stamp a kind of longing in the hearts of long-term travellers. Yet choices have to be made and journeys are made to be taken.

When a person decides to leave for another country (or countries) for an indeterminate period, there are some realities to face before embarking to dream destinations. Especially for those who are renting a place, the issue of where to leave their belongings and how to keep them intact is an important concern. One rational solution to this is to look for storage.

Storage Basics

When leaving home behind, it is a wise decision to look for the best furniture removalists on the Gold Coast. Experts in this field will ensure that the belongings you leave behind will be handled with utmost care and stored safely.

Some companies also offer modular mobile storage on the Gold Coast, offering convenience and ease for those who are looking for solutions to where they can safely leave their belongings.

Before leaving for long-term travel, here are some very basic storage tips to keep in mind:

1. Do your homework

When looking for a storage facility, it always best to do some research first. You need to know if the company you are leaving your prized possessions with are reliable and trustworthy.

Ask trusted friends and family for recommendations. Look up on the Internet about well-reviewed facilities and removalists. When you have a list of the most recommended companies, call and ask them for a meeting so you can ask questions. It is best to always visit the storage location, so that you can get a feel for the company, how they will handle your goods and how your goods will be stored.

Some removalists also offer free, obligation-free inspections which could also be a good venue for both parties to go through important details of the move as well as storage particulars.

Some questions to ask are:

• How will you handle the items?

Leading removalists use modular storage units where your goods will be loaded directly into modules, transported by a truck, and then placed in the storage area via a forklift. This eliminates double-handling which reduces the risk of damage to goods.

• Is your facility climate controlled?

If you look around closely, you will find out that premier removalists have the facility to properly store your belongings in plywood modules that are well-sealed off from dust. These removalists also have modules that are slightly elevated from the ground to prevent the bottoms getting wet as well as allow for better ventilation and temperature control.

• Is your facility safe and secure?

Ask the removalist about the safety of your belongings in their care and the security of the place. In Australia, some storage facilities can give you a guarantee of safety and security if they are an accredited member of the Australian Furniture Removers Association (AFRA). Accredited members comply with a strict Code of Conduct and have undergone the requirement for Police Checks.

2. Label and list

When you’ve decided on the movers and storage facility for your belongings, make sure that you list down all the items that you have packed. Put labels on every box or container for your convenience when it is time to unpack them. Having an inventory of the items will also give you added security since you know that you can easily find out if something goes missing.

Your service provider will give you a full inventory and condition report that you need to countersign. Make sure you read it carefully before you affix your signature. 3. Take care of the paperwork

Aside from your list, you must also remember to look into insurance. Even the best plans can go awry so it is best to have yourself covered. Make sure to ask your removalist regarding the different kinds of insurance you need to get.

Nowadays, removal charges are exclusive of transit insurance. You need to insure your personal belongings while they are in transit to make sure you are covered in case an accident happens or in an event that your items get damaged.

Some removalists can arrange insurance for your belongings while in transit or storage since they are authorised representatives of a licensed insurance broker. Take time to discuss this with your removalist’s insurance representative and go over the policy. It is better to be clear on what the coverage is so you won’t have to worry about that while you’re traveling.

Remember to be clear with your movers regarding the date, time, and location of the move. When you’ve done all the preparations for the move and secured the storage facility, you can breathe easier that all your mementos and keepsakes from home will be secure in a safe and comfortable place for the duration to your travels to the UK, Europe, Asia, or anywhere in the globe.

AUTHOR BIO

John Pfeiffer has been the proud owner of Ashtons Removals for over 40 years. His attention to detail, a product of his accountancy background, and his emphasis on training and empowering his team members, has ensured the vast number of Gold Coast families who have been moved by Ashtons Removals, have had their furniture and effects moved undamaged and with minimum fuss.