Storage

How To Properly Store Photos & Pictures

Family photos and non-photographic pictures created before the days of digital imaging are gradually disappearing. That’s a shame, because those old photos and pictures tell us a lot about ourselves. They speak of family histories, community events and who we are as a people. Preserving them is of paramount importance. This post is about how to approach picture storage properly.

This post was written with the intent of helping readers learn key strategies for storage and transport. It is possible to preserve old photos and pictures so that future generations can enjoy them. Perhaps they can also learn from them.

Storing Paper Photos and Pictures

Our starting point is understanding that we are talking about photos and pictures printed on paper. As useful as paper is, it breaks down over time. Paper is an organic product made from trees. As such, it won’t last forever. It takes a concerted effort to preserve paper and the images on it so as to guarantee it lasts as long as possible.

Paper photos and pictures have a few natural enemies: light, moisture and high temperatures. All three affect paper and ink in different ways. Needless to say that proper photo and picture storage accounts for these three enemies as much as possible.

Where light is concerned, keeping old photos and pictures away from it is a good idea. Light is harmful because it causes ink to fade. That’s why photos and pictures printed on paper begin to look dull over time. They lose their brilliance and luster because light is causing the ink to gradually fade away.

Moisture is a problem because it affects both ink and paper. Moisture can discolor paper, turning it a yellowish brown color that easily interferes with the image printed on it. If there’s enough moisture to contend with, it can even break down the fibers of the paper so that it falls apart. Moisture also breaks down ink and washes it away.

Finally, high temperatures can alter the chemicals used to process printed photos and pictures. This can lead to discoloration. As such, it is generally recommended that old photos and pictures be stored someplace where temperatures are not likely to exceed 75°F for an extended amount of time.

Good Ventilation

It never hurts to consider picture storage in areas with good ventilation. As you may know, poor ventilation invites moisture accumulation and mold growth. Understanding that paper has a certain amount of moisture in it, you don’t want to give mold any opportunity to grow. Good ventilation is a step in that direction.

Good ventilation allows for air circulation throughout the space. It prevents mold growth and reduces the likelihood that additional moisture will accumulate in the space. That’s good for old photos and pictures. The less moisture they have to contend with, the longer they will last.

Photo and Picture Storage at Home

Many people choose to store their old photos and pictures at home in order to guarantee their safety and have them on hand for easy access. Storing at home is fine as long as some basic principles are applied. First and foremost, old photos and pictures should never be stored in locations subject to the previously mentioned enemies. That means not storing them in basements, garages, or attics.

All three environments are subject to temperature extremes and moisture. Basements and garages are also notorious for being affected by weather. Temperature extremes in the garage and flooding in the basement ruin in old photos and pictures faster than just about anything else.

So, where should you store your photos and pictures? The best option is a closet shelf. Being up on a shelf limits the risks of damage should your home suffer minor flooding. Also, because closets are generally part of a home’s living space, temperatures remain fairly constant. Of course, there is no concern about excess light in a dark closet.

In the absence of available closet space, you might consider storing photos and pictures in a cabinet or under a bed. You get the same benefits of climate control and protection against light exposure.

Offsite Photo and Picture Storage

There are times when it’s necessary to store your old photos and pictures in a location other than your home. Self storage immediately comes to mind. This is a fine option as long as you remember the same principles that apply to storing the items at home.

If you must utilize self storage, make sure the unit you choose is climate controlled. It should have heat during the winter months and air-conditioning during the summer. Being able to adjust the temperature in your own unit would be optimal, but sometimes that is not possible. Sometimes temperatures are maintained by the property owner. In such a case, ensure that temperatures are never allowed to exceed 75°F.

Another thing to remember about self storage is to store all items up and off the floor. Use wooden pallets, shelves or wire racks. The reasoning here is simple: there is always a risk of flood. Depending on where the self storage unit is located, there is also the risk of critters. Keeping your storage containers off the ground is the best way to keep them safe from both.

Also be sure to use plastic storage containers with tight lids. Again, you never know. Unless you visit your storage unit every day, you’ll have no way of knowing for sure that there are no moisture or temperature issues. A solid plastic container with a tight lid offers maximum protection.

Flat and Chemical Free

You may choose to store your photos and pictures in albums. That is a good choice. However, be sure to look for albums made with materials that are acid-free. Good material choices include polypropylene and polyester. Never use albums offering pages with pre-applied adhesive. Adhesives can damage pictures over time.

In the absence of albums, you can store old photos and pictures in plastic boxes. Remember that the goal here is to keep the pictures as flat as possible and free of all chemicals. If you are not going to use albums, make sure to stack your pictures together by size. Don’t just throw them in the storage container randomly. To do so is to defeat the purpose.

Transporting Your Photos and Pictures

The photos and pictures you are trying so desperately to preserve are at their best when they are being enjoyed by others. As such, you undoubtedly want to take them to family gatherings and other events. Again, that’s fine. Just be careful about how you transport your prized possessions.

Keeping photos and pictures as flat as possible is key. This is why albums are so helpful. Whether you use albums or not, be careful not to expose your photos and pictures to moisture or sunlight during transport. Keep them dry and dark. Don’t transport them in the trunk, either. The trunk is an open invitation to everything from moisture to heat to dirt.

Preserve the photos and pictures in albums. You and family members, friends can enjoy them with very little concern for their immediate safety. Items shared loosely are a different matter. As stuffy as it sounds, old photos and pictures not viewed in albums should be handled with gloved hands. Otherwise, oil and debris from the skin can contribute to paper and ink breaking down.

Creating Digital Backups

We will close this post by discussing the idea of creating digital backups. While preserving old photos and pictures, especially paper prints, is a wonderful idea, there are never any guarantees of long-term success. Moreover, it’s highly unlikely that your best efforts will preserve paper documents forever. Do yourself and your posterity a favor by making digital copies.

There are many ways to do this without spending a fortune. If you have a digital scanner for your computer, you’ll find making digital copies fairly easy. Just place as many photos as you can on the scanner and scan away. Save the images to your computer first, then to separate storage later.

You can use a digital camera or your smart phone if you don’t have a scanner. This is a bit more cumbersome, but it can be done. The secret is to lay the pictures flat and use something to hold the camera steady. A tripod works very well for this purpose. You simply take pictures of each picture and save the images to external storage.

Who doesn’t love looking at old photos and pictures? They remind us of days gone by; they speak of the promises of the future. Thus, preserving our old photos and pictures is important. Hopefully the tips offered here have answered any questions you have about photo and picture storage.

Box-n-Go Can Help Any of Your Storage Needs

When it comes to any kind of storage Box-n-Go is here to help. Our storage units are breathable. This means that the environment inside the unit equalizes with that on the outside. The result? No moisture build up. No mildew. Our storage service also allows you to load/unload only once. Less wear and tear on you and your belongings. Just call us at 1-877-269-6461 and we will be happy to help you with any of your storage and moving needs.

What To Consider When Choosing a Long Term Storage Unit

Many people use short-term storage solutions. They use storage when they’re relocating, spring cleaning. Also to accommodate them during many other situations that create space issues at your home or office. Long-term storage is also available, however. Many people take advantage of this solution when they’ll need space to store their belongings for several weeks or months. Long term storage is suitable to hold all of the same items that you’d place into a short-term storage facility. Including household furnishing, furniture, antiques, musical instruments, electronics, and more. You’ll also find that long-term storage accommodates a variety of vehicles. But, why would someone use long-term storage rather than short-term storage? What’s the difference between the two options?

Short-term storage is used by people who will need space to hold their belongings only for a short time. While long-term storage is used when space is needed for many weeks or months out of the year. People who rent long-term storage oftentimes enjoy cheaper rates than people using the unit only for a short period. But this varies from one provider to another. If you find yourself in need of space you can access long-term storage to suffice your needs.

Long Term Storage

Long-term storage provides a safe, secure space for you to store all of the things there is no room for in the home. People utilize long-term storage to help them with a variety of needs, such as:

– Boat/RV/Vehicle storage
– Storage when traveling abroad
– Business storage needs
– E-commerce store storage
– Estate storage

These examples are a few of the many when long-term storage is beneficial. Though people use this rental option for a myriad of other purposes as well. There is no wrong reason to use long-term storage in the time of need. When you don’t have the space to store your belongings, the long term storage is there to cover your needs. It’s an affordable, easy way to get the space you need without signing a lease. As well as paying monthly rent for another home.

There is a myriad of storage companies available to provide you with long-term storage. Finding a storage company isn’t difficult, although there is a bit more challenge added to the equation when it’s time to choose a quality provider. Rather than choose the first company that offers storage unit rental, spend time doing your homework. Research the options. Your research goes a long way and helps find a storage unit facility that exceeds your expectations.

Important Information About Storage

Long-term storage is available to anyone that needs space for any reason. You can rent a unit of various sizes, suitable to hold a few items or an entire household of goods. The unit size selected affects the monthly cost of the unit. No matter what type of credit you ave, renting a storage unit is simple. Since there is never a credit check required to rent a unit. This means that canceling the contract is also simple. Just remove your belongings from the unit and notify the storage unit company when you want to discontinue the rental. It’s that simple. People utilize storage units every single day. It certainly helps them in a number of ways. From easing their mind of worry and wonder to offering a simple solution to their storage needs.

When it’s time to rent a storage unit, find the right unit. Use the information below to make it easier to find a storage unit company that exceeds your expectations and needs. Finding that company isn’t difficult. Rest assured that finding the right storage unit company is well worth the time and effort that it takes.

Facility Location

Choosing a storage facility that is in a location convenient to your home, work, or other location is vital. Since you may need to return to the storage unit several times to add more items to the unit or to retrieve items that you’ve put inside. A storage unit located nearby your home or other chosen location reduces the time that it takes to achieve this task. As well as the time spent in traffic, fuel costs, etc. A storage unit located nearby your chosen location keeps things simple and that is important. Always consider the storage facilities nearby your chosen location before venturing off to options across town or that are otherwise out of your way.

Another consideration is using portable storage, like Box-n-Go. This storage comes to you! You do not have to go anywhere. This makes it ideal for many business storage needs.

Storage Access

Once you’ve stored your items inside the storage unit, you’ll need to come back to the facility at various times to get items out, add new items, and for other reasons. Be sure that storage access is available during the hours that you can make it to the facility. What hours is the storage facility office open? You may find the need to speak to staff or access the office for many reasons. What hours can you access the storage unit? Is the storage unit open on Saturday and Sunday? Most storage unit companies close the doors on the weekends, or at least on Sunday. Some facilities offer 24-hour storage unit access. But this isn’t true of every company. Inquire of the available access hours before signing a long-term storage contract.

Price of the Storage Unit/Payment Plans

Don’t overpay to rent a long-term storage unit. No two storage facilities charge the same rate for service. It is up to you to find the most affordable rates for your needs. Before rental, request quotes from three to four companies to learn the exact cause of your rental. Keep in mind any added and unexpected fees the company may charge. Most companies offer storage unit quotes upon request at no cost. So be sure to use them to help find the best price for your storage unit.

Keep in mind a variety of factors impact the cost of the storage unit rental, including the unit size. Along with requesting quotes, be sure to learn more about the payment plans the storage company offers. Most companies charge monthly fees. However some do offer weekly payments and longer payment options for those who prefer to pay several months of storage up front.

Storage Facility Amenities

Every storage facility offers its own amenities. It’s up to you to sort through them to find the amenities that you need to make for a smooth rental experience. Do you need a climate-controlled unit? For many people, climate-controlled units make it easy to protect their belongings in various weather elements. Many people now prefer this type of uni over traditional unis. If you’re among those people, ensure that the storage facility chosen offers the units. Other important amenities to look for in a good storage unit rental company include:

Climate-controlled
Ground level access
Storage unit materials (especially in warmer conditions)
Indoor/Outdoor location
Locks
Gated entrance
Monitoring service

This is a small list of amenities that storage unit providers offer. The more amenities the storage unit provider offers, the more comfort you experience renting the unit. Don’t sell yourself short when it’s time to choose a storage facility. The amenity that you need is out there if you take the time to find the right company.

Storage Facility Reputation

Every storage unit company has a reputation backing them based on the type of service they’ve offered to customers over the years. Learning this information is vital to a successful storage unit rental. So make sure to learn more about their reputation first thing. It’s fairly simple to learn vital information concerning the storage facility and its reputation before choosing it as your long-term provider. Friends and family offer word-of-mouth information that you won’t hear anywhere else. Ask around to learn more about the best and worst companies from the people you trust the most. Use the internet to learn additional information about the company. But choose your sources wisely since not every website is trustworthy. Sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) are excellent sources of information about local storage facilities.

Find the Right Long-Term Storage Solution for Your Needs

Long term storage helps simplify life when you lack the space to store important items in your home. It’s affordable, there is no credit check required. The unit can be used for as long as necessary. Check out promotions and discounts ahead of rental, since finding offers is simple and dramatically cuts costs of your long-term storage. Whatever has caused you a lack of space is instantly resolved when a storage unit rental is used.

Consider portable storage facilities like Box-n-Go

Box-n-Go offers many features offered by traditional storage places. However, Box-n-Go also offers you the convenience of the portable storage. All you have to do is to call 1-877-269-6467.

Eco-Friendly Moving Tips

Moving is not an activity generally known for considering the environment during the process. This article brings you some eco-friendly moving tips, to help you start thinking about the environment.

You can get recycled boxes, but the truck alone emits plenty of carbon into the atmosphere. Also the labor leads to wasting lots of materials and generating trash. Now consider the fact that the average American will move more than 10 times in a lifetime. this means we all end up impacting the environment significantly.

Fortunately, there’s more you can do now than ever before to get your emissions closer to zero. Thanks to the rise of eco-friendly moving services. Plus, if you plan ahead, you’ll make an even stronger impact. Do the world and your wallet a favor and start planning ahead now!

Planning ahead reduces impact

If you’re like most people, chances are you’ve experienced it.

A trip is around the corner. The thought of packing keeps slipping your mind until the night before. Quickly, you hurry and throw the clothes into your luggage. Fly off to your destination only to realize that you forgot half the things you wanted to take with you.

Packing for the big move at the last minute is much like this, but even more extreme. You’ll notice things that you haven’t seen or thought of since the last time you moved. So don’t wait until the day of the move to think about how to pack all this other stuff.

By starting a few weeks early, you give yourself enough time to get rid of the things that would simply take up space. Be realistic with this choice; if you haven’t worn that shirt in the last five years. It’s worth donating it to someone who will wear it. Have a yard sale for unwanted valuables,. Donate the rest to a charity. Not only will you spend less time on the move, but fewer items means using less fuel on the ride.

Look for containers you already have

Look inside your home first to look for containers you already have to help with an eco-friendly move. Grab the cardboard boxes that carried your Costco groceries. Use suitcases to store clothes, and use sandwich bags for smaller sundries. Other items you can look for include:

Plastic bins
Dresser drawers
Reusable grocery bags
Duffel bags and gym bags

In other words, if you have something in your home that can fit smaller items inside, fill it as much as you can before packing it away. You’ll save plenty of space if you pack the clothes in the dresser drawers. Or fill the items from under your sink into the garbage container. The more you can pack items within each other, the fewer boxes you will need.

Store boxes that you get throughout the year

We’d never suggest shopping online specifically to stock up on cardboard boxes. But if you’re going to make the orders anyway, set a place where you can store them for the next time you move.

Whether you know when the move is coming or you otherwise anticipate having to move again in the next few years. Keep the boxes whenever you make an online order. Formed boxes take up a lot of space. So break them down carefully and store them in a plastic box in the basement or garage. You can also put them under your bed if these other storage options are not feasible. They’ll be easy to form back into a box shape when it’s time to move. All you need is some packing tape.

If you must buy boxes, order them used

An eco-friendly move means you avoid buying brand new materials until there’s no other choice. This is especially true with cardboard boxes.

If you haven’t been able to get enough used boxes from other sources on your own, see if anyone you know has any they can loan you. Call up family members, friends, local grocery stores. Also head to retail stores to see if there are boxes you can have for free.

If that’s still not enough boxes, or if you come up short, look on sites like Freecycle or Craigslist. See if anyone else in your neighborhood or city is giving away boxes for free. Other websites sell or give away boxes that have flaws and cannot be used for manufacturing but still work well enough for moving.

Continue to reach out, and you’ll find plenty of opportunities to stock up on used boxes for an eco-friendly move.

Be creative when protecting packed items

Other packing materials, such as the ones used to protect your items when on the move, aren’t as easy to find used. Although there are special collection points that recycle these types of materials. They’re not always conveniently located and many people simply throw out the materials anyway. That doesn’t mean you’re out of luck, though.

Before buying new packing materials that you’ll either have to drive out to recycle or end up throwing out, look again inside your home for items that you can re-purpose. For example, comforters, linens, towels. Also thick clothes all can wrap around fragile items to protect them in the truck.

If that’s not enough, then you can move on to newspaper. This is a long-used packing material that you can easily recycle in your normal weekly bin. If you do find yourself wanting to acquire the plastic packing materials, be sure to know exactly where to recycle them in the future for reuse.

Donate excess items you no longer need

There’s hardly any better chance to get rid of items you no longer need or use than a few weeks before moving away.

As you organize your plan for the move, start sorting your items into Keep and Toss piles. Once this is done, divide the Toss pile into three sub-piles: Donate, Recycle, and Trash. The goal is to have as small a trash pile as possible. You shouldn’t put anything here unless it’s impossible to donate or recycle it.

The donation pile can go to numerous charities, like Veterans for America, Goodwill, local animal shelters, libraries, and schools. Everything in the recycling pile should be processed correctly. For example, electronics have a specific method of recycling that precludes tossing it with your regular recycling.

Keep the kitchen stuff out for a while

It may seem intuitive to start packing up the kitchen first because it’s so difficult to sort through. However, once all the utensils and dishes are packed away, you’ll end up with no choice but to buy, use, and throw out plastic utensils, cups, and plates. Instead, keep just enough kitchen items out to help keep yourself fed throughout the move. An eco-friendly move won’t be so eco-friendly if you use brand new plastics along the way.

Seek out a green moving company for an eco-friendly move

The governor of California recently revealed a plan to revolutionize how cargo travels across the huge state. Aiming to bring the industry down to a zero-emissions standard. If one of the largest states in the country can ship its cargo without emitting carbon into the atmosphere, certainly this is something that your average homeowner could achieve as well.

Eco-friendly transportation is crucial to a green move. As more companies realize the impact they’re having on the environment, they look to adopt a zero-to-low-emissions approach. You’ll find more and more moving services

Long-distance movers have the additional option of saving even more by sharing trucks with other movers. A compartmentalized truck separates everyone’s belongings. However, transports many at once via consolidated shipping. Since there is one truck for multiple moves, this makes consolidated shipping an excellent way to reduce your carbon footprint during the move.

Likewise, you can also use trains to ship your items across the country for less strain on the environment.

If possible, make a single trip with your move

The longer the engine runs, the more carbon the truck emits. In other words, plan your move so you make as few trips as possible back and forth between locations.

Avoid small trips to and from the two homes and instead focus on sending off as many items as you can manage in a single trip and day. If you intend to move some of the items yourself, fit as much as you can into your vehicle rather than making small deliveries. Simply put, the fewer trips you need to make, the less gas will burn away into the atmosphere and leave a larger footprint.

Box-n-Go Storage & Moving Company is your one stop shop for everything moving. We have a full supply of moving boxes, which we can deliver to you, so that you do not have to drive to the store. Box-n-Go offers portable self-storage that comes to you, so that you do not have to make multiple trips to storage facility. We can also arrange for the moving labor, if this is what you are looking for. All you need to do is to call us at 1-877-269-6461 or receive an online quote.

Boat Storage Tips & Tricks

In the United States, it’s estimated that one out of every ten households owns a boat. If you happen to be one of these households, you know the truth. You know how much fun one of these recreational vehicles can offer. However, you may also know that boat storage can be a struggle. Especially since preparation is a crucial step in doing it right. If you’d like to streamline the process so you do things quickly yet properly. Then the tips and advice below can help.

Why Is Proper Boat Storage Important?

Without proper storage, a boat can easily experience rust. Or mildew and even tarnish to the exterior as well as important parts of the interior. Proper storage can also help keep this recreational vehicle safe from inclement weather conditions. Including hurricanes that can cause excessive damage or even total the boat out. This can save you a considerable amount of money over the time you own the boat. it will also help keep it looking like new for longer. A good rule of thumb is to learn how to store your boat before you ever buy it. This is in order to make sure you keep this investment in good shape.

Tip 1: Always Clean Before Storing

Boats should always be clean both inside and outside before placing them into a storage area when the season is over. Leaving a boat dirty is very likely to result in rust. And can even mean the paint job damage in a few short months. Once you’ve wash the exterior, you’ll want to apply a fresh coat of wax. This is just to make sure and protect the paint. On the interior, you’ll want to condition leather seats and vacuum to get rid of any dirt and dust.

Tip 2: Invest in a Good Quality Cover

Even if your boat is going into a storage unit, a cover will help keep dust, bugs. As well as other debris will not be touching your investment. The heavy-duty canvas tend to be the best. Although the price of these will be more when you compare them to a lower grade materials. Additionally, you may want to look for one that is waterproof so it can provide additional protection to your investment.

Tip 3: Fill the Tank Up

Many owners think that it’s okay to store their boat with any amount of fuel that’s left after the last expedition of the season. However, this can cause corrosion due to condensation. This can leave you with some damage. Especially when it comes time to use the boat again. To avoid this, you’ll want to fill the gas tank to the top before storing for the end of the season. You should also pour in some fuel additive. This will help prevent sludge and carbon from building up over the next few months.

Tip 4: Change the Oil

Changing the oil on your boat isn’t something that should only be done before you take it out on the water. It’s important to also do this before you store in order to avoid carbon from building up inside of the engine. For the small amount of time it takes to do this task, it’s well worth the benefits it has to offer. In fact, a quick oil change can save you hundreds to even thousands of dollars in damage in the long run.

Tip 5: Address the Battery

The engine of your boat is one of the most expensive and important parts of it overall. For this reason, it’s important to protect it when you put your boat into storage. To do so, either disconnect your battery or connect it to a trickle charger.

Tip 6: Maintain the Engine

It’s crucial to flush your engine with fresh water before storage in order to prevent saltwater corrosion. Additionally, it’s recommended to run antifreeze through the water in order to prevent freezing in areas that experience lower temperatures during the winter.

Where Should You Store Your Boat?

Once you go through all of the steps that are necessary to prepare your boat for storage, it will be time to decide where you should store it. This is an important decision. Storage option you choose will determine how to protect your investment. Especially during the several months that it is out of use. In most situations, you can either choose outdoors or indoors. Below you’ll find more information for both options.

Should I Store the Boat Outside?

Storing your boat outside is always an option if you’re tight on space in your garage. However, even with a high-quality cover over the exterior, this can result in damage to your investment. This is true no matter what climate you live in. Both hot and cold weather can take their toll on a boat over the course of the off-season. people typically do not recommend the outdoor storage. Especially if you have a relatively new boat that you want to keep in good shape for many years to come.

Should I Store the Boat Inside?

Indoor storage is hands down the best option for any type of boat. this is because it helps protect it from the sun, rain, wind, cold, heat, and humidity. However, not all indoor spaces are equal to one another. While a garage provides adequate cover, it is very unlikely to be climate controlled. If you want the best protection, then an indoor storage unit is going to be the best route to go. With this, you will have a dedicated space. A space where your boat is protected on all sides from the weather that’s going on outside.

An additional benefit of renting a storage space is the fact that it will be more secure than it would be elsewhere. You will be the only one who has a key and there will be less traffic than there would be outside of a garage. However, you should still make it a priority to check on your boat often. Perhaps once per week until you’re ready to take it out for the next season. Since the boat will likely sit on a trailer while it’s in storage, make sure to check the tires often as well. In fact, most experts recommend rotating those tires monthly in order to keep them inflated and in good shape for the season to come.

Any storage need

While renting a storage unit is an additional cost, it’s one that will give you peace of mind that your boat is being protected. Since it’s very likely that you invested quite a bit of money in this, the last thing you want to do is risk it being damaged when it’s not in use. A storage unit overcomes this risk and helps keep things in good shape for the future. When it’s time to remove it for the next season, all you’ll have to do is haul the boat away and close the unit until it’s time to store once again.

While Box-n-Go cannot store boats, we are here here to provide storage for most any other need you may have. Please feel free to contact us at 1-877-269-6461 should you have any storage and moving needs.

How to Move or Pack with an Aging-Elderly Parent

We all get to that point in life when we need to downsize and live in a place suited to our needs. This can be a particularly difficult transition, though. Moving an elderly parent is not easy. No one wants to lose their home and possessions due to declining health and the ability to take care of themselves.

When this happens to your parents, you have to help them. You will go through a unique experience that almost everyone moving their parent goes through. There may be stubbornness, frustration (on both ends), and even some fond memories. Before you get in over your head, here are some tips to help you move and pack your elderly parents.

Moving an Elderly Parent – Know When to Move

There is a lot of discussion as to when it’s time for your parents to move into an assisted living facility. Many people stay self-sufficient (or at least appear that way), and others have health conditions that make the change mandatory. If you’re not entirely sure if it’s time, here are some things to consider:

– Has your parent injured themselves or fallen recently?
– Do your parents have trouble maintaining their home and keeping it clean?
– Are your parents able to keep themselves clean?
– Do your parents get confused easily or show signs of dementia?
– Are your parents in bad health?

If the answer to any of these questions is yes, than it’s a good time to start thinking about assisted living.

Make it Sound Good

To make your parents excited about the move, you really have to have a positive perspective about the place they will be moving to. Highlight all of the positive attributes of their new home. Many places offer social advantages, help cleaning, no cooking, and trips to the places that your parents will want to go. When you make the new home sound amazing, they may actually start to believe it, too.

Moving an Elderly Parent – Be Understanding

Going into this next part of life is extremely difficult, and you need to be understanding of this when you talk to your parents. Be patient. Speak in an understanding tone without being condescending. Also, be willing to listen. As we get older, it can feel like no one listens to us anymore. Do your best to make them feel heard.

Let Them Make Decisions

Part of allowing your elderly parents to feel heard is to let them make decisions. Ask their opinion. It is their life, after all.
Sometimes, the decisions need a little guiding. For those of us with children, think about asking your child if they want to take a shower before or after story time. Sure, they thought they had a choice in the matter, but, in reality, they were being told that they have to take a bath. You can use this same method when it comes to helping your parents make difficult decisions. If they don’t want to go to any assisted living facility, give them options to let them feel like they are at least picking which one they will go to.

Moving an Elderly Parent – Managing the Stuff

Getting an elderly parent to throw out their possessions is absolutely impossible! Here are a couple of tips specifically for this part of the process.

1. Give stuff to the people that they love. Or sell it.

Your loved one worked their entire life for the items that they have. They don’t want these items to go unused. One of the best ways to make them feel better about getting rid of their stuff is to give it to someone they love. If it goes to a child, grandchild, cousin, or friend, they feel like their item was put to good use.
If no one needs or wants the items that can’t come with, try selling the stuff! Run a garage sale or a yard sale. If a family member or friend can’t use it, at least you might be able to make some money from it.

2. Put it in storage

Your parents won’t be able to get rid of all of their stuff before moving. For that reason, it’s a good idea to get a storage unit for the things that they still want but don’t have room for anymore.

Before buying a storage unit, take an inventory of everything you will have in there to help you pick the right size unit. You’ll also have to consider if any of the items need to be stored in a special way. Books, paintings, and other collectables may have certain temperature or humidity requirements when stored to maintain their value.

3. Force them to throw away the garbage

Some of our parents hold onto stuff that is broken or stained. They may think that they will eventually fix it and use it again. The fact of the matter is that probably isn’t true. It’s a good idea to be realistic and just throw out the things that you can’t donate to charity because it’s not in good enough condition.

Moving an Elderly Parent – Do the Work

Elderly parents aren’t especially strong. They won’t be able to do a lot of the packing and moving themselves. For that reason, step up to help by moving the important things and taking control when the movers come.

If possible, it’s a good idea to complete the move without your parents around. While it is their stuff, they might be more in the way of the movers than anything else. Get clear instructions on what should be packed and how it should be packed. Hopefully, you can take their place during the move.

Follow-Up

One of the most important parts of moving your elderly parents is what happens after the fact. Be sure to check in on them after the move to ensure that they are settling in okay. It will also help your parents get more accustomed to the new place if they see someone familiar on a regular basis. Call and check in as often as possible and be sure to always meet up for the holidays.

The golden years are a time for someone to relax and be as comfortable as possible. There may be some downsides to this part of life, but it’s best to respect it the way it deserves to be respected.

Your parents will need help during this time. However, you may get frustrated when your help is greeted with stubbornness. Do your best to understand what your parents are going through and help make them the most comfortable life possible. You want your parents to enjoy their old age. Listen to what they want and do your best to provide it. Just throw out the unnecessary stuff along the way.

Box-n-Go – A Wealth of Storage Options in One

While there might be many moving and storage solutions to choose from, temporary self-storage remains one of the most flexible, convenient and affordable options. It’s a storage solution that revolves around you that is completely tailored to suit your needs and which puts you in total control of your storage. Choose whether your container moves with you or remains stored in a safe and secure storage facility. Subsequently, your keepsakes get transported upon your request.

At Box-n-Go, we offer temporary storage solutions you need when and where you need it, without the fuss often associated with storage companies. Our storage units are secure and where you need them for easy access. Make moving a breeze. Call Box-n-Go today for more of our temporary storage solutions. Take advantage of our load once, unload once storage innovation.

Can You Share a Storage Unit With a Friend

A self-storage units are a wonderful and convenient way of keeping the precious things you don’t have room for at home safe. However, you may not have enough items to fill up a unit. At least enough to justify the cost. In this case, sharing a storage unit, and the cost, with a friend is a possible solution. Still, like having a roommate, there are some things you need to take into account. Just to be sure the sharing process goes smoothly.

Researching the Best Storage Solution

If you plan to share a storage unit with a friend, it is crucial for you and your friend to determine how many things each of you needs to store. How much space each of you needs for those items. This will guarantee you are choosing the right sized self-storage unit. And are neither renting a unit that is too small. Nor paying more rent than you need to for a unit that is larger than you require. To calculate this, you and your friend will have to decide what items you are planning on storing and the volume of the items. Be as precise as possible, using a height x width x depth formula to determine the total area needed.

You must also decide how the rent will be shared. Splitting the rent equally make sense if you will both be sharing the space equally. However, if one of you just has a few boxes and the other has a motorcycle, camping gear and SCUBA equipment. The person using the most space should probably pay a higher percentage of the rent.

Call Around

Finally, to find the best deal on a storage unit, take your time and call around to all the storage facilities in your immediate area. Inquire what the cost is for the size unit you need at each facility. Don’t fall into the trap of being willing to drive an extra five to 10 miles to save $5 a month on rent. You may save a few dollars if you only visit your unit once every couple of months. But if you will be making regular trips to your shed any savings will be eaten up on fuel and travel time.

Respecting Each Other

While sharing a storage unit with a friend obviously doesn’t require the same level of tolerance as having a roommate. You must both respect each others portion on the storage unit as well as the other’s belongings. Sharing a storage unit will require tolerance and communication from both sides. When sharing a storage unit with a friend, bear in mind that you and your friend both have a preconceived idea of what you want your unit to be like.

Maybe one of you has a vision of a clean and neatly-arranged storage unit with shelves and hooks on the ceiling to keep everything its proper place and the other couldn’t care less about order. This will become a huge problem down the road if you don’t talk about it upfront. Lack of communication, and a willingness to compromise, can be even more of a problem if more than two people are sharing a unit.

Talk it Through

Sit down and sketch out a diagram on where everything will be stored. Try to arrange things so the belongings of one do not get in the way of the other any more than absolutely necessary. Again, this is even more important if more than two are sharing a unit. Once you have the space worked out and your belongings stored in the unit, let your storage roomy use their part of the space as they see fit. There is no need to interfere with how your friend keeps their things. Provided the unit is kept clean and you are able to reach your belongings.

Identifying Security Issues

It is important to identify any potential security problems when looking for a storage facility. As theft can be a big problem at non-secured facilities, it is important to rent a unit that has at least the basic security features of a fence and gate. Ideally, a well-secured facility will have the following security measures in place:

A fence with a gated entry that is locked during non-business hours. Ideally, access will be controlled with a PIN pad that will grant tenets 24-hour access. If the facility has hours the gate is closed, you must consider if the hours the gate is open will be convenient for you and your friend.
A surveillance camera system that has full coverage of the facility.
Proper fire-control procedures.

Create a Policy for Key Holders

You will want to make certain that only the people who have access to keys are the people you are sharing the unit with. The best way to accomplish this is to make a list of everyone who has a right to have a key and get your friend(s) to stick to it. This really should be a contingency for sharing a unit. This way, if things magically begin to disappear, you will know who to ask questions of.

Solving the Rental-Agreement Challenge

Of course, sharing a place for your treasured belongings with a friend does require a bit of trust. Even though you and your friend are sharing the storage unit, typically only one person will be listed on the rental agreement. When deciding who will have this dubious honor, understand the situation. Even though the two of you will be splitting the costs, the person named on the agreement is the party who is legally responsible for making the rental payments. This means keeping track of the rental due date will be the responsibility of the person named in the contract.

Irrespective of whose name is on the rental agreement, this doesn’t prevent you from having your own personal contract with your friend. Everyone who will be sharing in the financial cost of the storage unit should agree to their share of the unit’s rent in writing. If one of you will need more space, structure your agreemnt accordingly. That person will accordingly pay a higher percentage of the rent. Spell it out in the personal agreement. Conversations about financial responsibilities can be a bit awkward. You will be saving yourself a lot of headache in the long run. Should something unpleasant happens down the road.

Insurance

Storage facilities will not insure their tenets belongings. Check to see if your homeowners or rental policy will cover the items you store off premise. If not, check with the facility to see if they have an insurance provider. If neither of those options are viable, consider splitting the cost of a separate policy with your friend.

Paying On-Time

There are risks associated with moving everything into storage. Your possessions may become a reality star in storage unit auctions reality TV! One way to avoid any of this is pay your rent on-time. Regardless if you are using the mobile units from Box-n-Go Storage or any other company.

We hope the above advise will help you in your endeavor. Using mobile units helps move your belongings without all shuttling back and forth is. It is the easiest and the most convenient way to move and store. Should you need help with reservations, or have any questions, please do not hesitate to call Box-n-Go at 1-877-269-6461.