Downsizing can be an overwhelming and emotional process for anyone. Whether you’re moving to raise some money, moving from the country to the city, or just trying to simplify your life, deciding what to keep and what to get rid of can be a challenging task. One way to make the downsizing process easier is by utilising self storage.

In this article, we’ll discuss how self storage can assist individuals and families who are downsizing their homes, and provide practical tips to help simplify the process.

Decluttering

Decluttering can be a daunting task, but it’s an essential step when downsizing. By getting rid of the items you no longer need or use, you can create more space in your home and make the downsizing process more manageable. Here are some practical tips for decluttering your stuff and getting ready for downsizing:

• Be ruthless: Don’t hold on to items out of guilt or obligation. Things that you haven’t used for years are unlikely to make much of a difference to your happiness in your new home.
• Consider your new house: Think about the layout and where your items might or might not fit.
• Give yourself plenty of time: Decluttering takes more time than you think, and if you’re rushed you’ll default to the easier option of putting an item in a storage box to think about another day.

Choosing the Right Unit Size

The first step in utilising self storage for downsizing is choosing the right unit size. It’s important to consider how much you need to store and how often you’ll need to access your belongings.

Most self storage facilities offer a range of unit sizes, from small lockers to large garages. When choosing a unit size, consider the following:

• Estimate the amount of space you need: To determine how much space you need, make an inventory of the items you plan to store. This will help you determine the size of the unit you need.
• Consider accessibility: If you plan to access your belongings frequently, choose a unit that is easy to access.
• Optimise your space: Use stackable boxes or temporary standalone shelving units to maximise the space in your unit. This will help you make the most of the space you have and save money on a larger unit.

Packing and Storing Items

Once you’ve chosen the right unit size, the next step is to pack and store your items. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Use sturdy boxes: Use sturdy boxes that can hold the weight of your items. Avoid using old or worn out boxes that could collapse and damage your belongings.
• Label your boxes: Label your boxes with the contents and the room they belong to. This will help you find your items quickly and easily.
• Protect your items: Use protective covers, such as bubble wrap or plastic, to protect your items from dust and damage.
• Store items strategically: Place items you’ll need to access frequently near the front of the unit. Store heavy items on the bottom and lighter items on top.
• Group similar items together: Group similar items together to make them easier to find. For example, store all of your holiday decorations in one area.

Choose the Right Facility

Many people are hesitant to use self storage because of common concerns, such as security and cost.

But if you choose a self storage facility that has security features, such as surveillance cameras, and secure locks you should be able to alleviate these concerns. Additionally, consider purchasing insurance for your stored items. You should also compare prices of different self storage facilities to find the best deal.

Utilising self storage can be a valuable tool for individuals and families who are downsizing their homes. By choosing the right unit size, and packing and storing items strategically, you can simplify the downsizing process and make the most of your space.