Self Storage or Full Storage, Which is Better?

Generically speaking, there are two storage options: “self-service storage” and “full-service storage”.  One big misconception about these two options is that self-storage is less expensive.  Surprisingly, this is usually not the case; especially for the equivalent of 5 rooms of furniture or less.Self and Full Storage Olympia Moving Washington DC Boston MA

Following are some of the pros and cons of self-storage versus full-service storage:

Full-Service Pros

  • Typically less expensive than self-storage
  • Furniture is professionally loaded into storage
  • Furniture is protected with pad and shrink-wrapping
  • Only authorized personnel are allowed in the facility for security purposes
  • Facility accepts liability for your property

Full-Service Cons:

  • Access is limited to the company’s hours of operation
  • Not a good solution if consistent access is required

Self-Service Pros:

  • No Access Fees
  • No appointments required to access your goods

Self-Service Cons:

  • Cost
  • No liability accepted by facility
  • Must load items into and out of storage without any assistance

To inquire about, or reserve space at one of Olympia’s storage facilities, click HERE.

6 Essential Tips for Fragile Packing

In the absence of budgetary constraints, having professionals pack your fragile items is both easier and preferable from a liability standpoint.  Having said this, if you are going to pack the fragile items yourself, following are some hints that should make this process easier.

1)     Whenever you are packing, make sure that you have a good workspace setup.  Place the box that you are packing on top of another box so that you avoid potential back issues associated with bending at the waist repeatedly.

Packing Fragile Items in Moving Boxes Effectively
Take Extra Time Packing Fragile Items

2)     The vast majority of fragile items can and should be wrapped in plain newsprint.  Do not use regular newspaper for packing, as the ink has a tendency to stain china.  Setup a flat surface and lay the packing paper on top of this space.

3)     Fragile items should be packed in a “Dishpack” or “5.2 cubic foot” box; which is double corrugated and specially designed for breakable items.

4)     Dishpacks should be packed in “tiers”.  Begin by creating a layer of crumpled up paper at the bottom of the box.  Proceed to wrap each piece individually with multiple pieces of paper.  Heavier (and less fragile) items should go on the bottom of the box; constituting the first tier.  Once the first tier is complete, fill in any remaining gaps with paper and create another layer of cushioning.  Continue with this process until the box is completely full.  Stemware and extremely fragile items should be placed on the top of the Dishpack.

5)     Remember that structure and support for a box are provided internally as well as externally.  Make sure that any extra space is filled with paper.  There should be no extra space inside the box.

6)     Make sure to label any fragile boxes with your name, the contents and a vertical arrow pointing upward to indicate that the box should not be loaded on its side.  In addition, the word “fragile” should be displayed prominently on at least two adjacent sides of the box.

There are more packing tips on this page or you can order moving supplies here. Contact Olympia Moving or call 800.222.4744 for a moving estimate.

Types of Boxes for Moving

Olympia Moving & Storage offers a professional packing and unpacking service. If you choose to pack yourself, you can order custom moving materials from Olympia. These materials can be picked up from our office, or we can arrange a free box delivery.

The following packing tips will help to ensure a smooth transition. This is also available as a packing tips PDF download here:

1. Label boxes carefully. Clearly label the top and two adjacent sides with your last name, the name of the room, and the contents of the container. If you pack a fragile item into a box, please mark the box accordingly. You should pack similar items together.

2. Use sturdy boxes. If you pack items in used boxes, select only boxes that are strong and uniform in size and shape. Cross out any old markings. Do not use any boxes that will not withstand stacking.

3. You should adhere to the following suggestions in preparing for your move:

Book Box (small-1.5 cubic feet) – Pack books, magazines, canned goods, and records in these boxes. Heavy items such as books or canned goods should always be packed in a small box so that the weight does not jeopardize the structural integrity of the container.
Linen Box (medium – 3.1 cubic feet) – Pack small appliances, pots and pans, shoes, lampshades, and linens in these boxes.
Large Box (4.5 cubic feet) – Pack comforters, baskets, large pots and pans, linens, lamps, and lampshades in these boxes.
Dish Pack (5.2 cubic feet) – Pack your china, stemware, small pictures, and any items that require extra protection in these boxes. The dish pack box has an extra layer of cardboard to make this box stronger. Make sure to use plenty of paper to wrap each item.
Lampshade Box (6.1 cubic feet) – Pack lampshades, plastic toys, and large comforters in these boxes.
Mirror/Picture Cartons (various sizes) – Pack all pictures and mirrors into these cartons. Place layers of paper on the bottom and top of the carton and pack paper in between each picture. It is recommended that you use bubble-craft to wrap each picture. Olympia Moving & Storage will not be responsible for unboxed pictures and mirrors.

4. Use packing paper (25 lb. bundle) to wrap dishes, cups, glasses, and misc. fragile items. Be generous in your use of paper. Paper is much less expensive than the items it is protecting. Do not use newspaper. The ink from the newsprint will rub off on your belongings.

5. Always use plastic packing tape. Tape both the top and bottom of each box with at least two strips across the seam.

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www.olympiamoving.com Agent for Wheaton Interstate Moving