Storage 202

Set the table:

Remember The 1, 2, and 3 motion storage rule? This episode is about 3+ motion storage, that stuff we get out once a year or less. 

 

Segment 1: Storage at home

• Consider the 3+ stuff to be stored. Typical items:

  • Family heirlooms, which can be photos, letters, objects, or linens 

  • Seasonal decorations

  • Seldom used tools, such as beer kits or candle making supplies for Christmas gifts. 

  • Some rec equipment, say camping gear for an annual trip to Big Bend. 

• What does it need? Temp control? Bug control? Some awkward space shape? 

• What to store it in? Look to Using What You Have first. Then source out storage bins. 

 

Segment 2: Storage off-site

• Goal is not to have this kind of storage, but sometimes it is necessary.

  • A move transition. New home won’t be ready when old home must be vacated. 

  • A move overseas. It’s expensive to ship furniture and scale is often an issue. So you need to store your current furnishings and buy or rent furnishings overseas. 

  • An excess of heirloom quality furnishings and art and younger family who might want it. 

• Parents homes can work for a few items, but parents clean things out or downsize. It is not a great solution for more than a few boxes or long term. 

• If you need one:

  • Get a unit that is convenient for you to access, location and actual unit.

  • Rent one slightly larger than you think you need.  

  • Fill it up with access in mind. Last in is first out/easiest to access. Give yourself a path to access the back. 

  • Heavy stuff low, light stuff might go high. 

• Unless you have a long term purpose for the storage facility, make a plan for cleaning it out. 150/month over 10 years—that’s a fair bit of cash. 

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Closing: 

Stuff for kids. Big cedar chests. Fill. That’s plenty to pass on to the next generation.