how to store paperwork in self storage

Personal documents like bills and receipts, or essential business documents like contracts and tax records, paperwork tends to pile up quickly. The solution? Self storage. 

But how do you store paperwork in self storage effectively? 

Why Paperwork Requires Special Attention in Storage

Paper is delicate. It's prone to degradation from environmental factors like temperature, humidity, pests, and even light. Therefore, paperwork needs special care when being stored, particularly for long periods.

Not all self storage units are created equal, especially when it comes to storing paperwork. Here's what you should look for:

1. Climate Control: As we've already mentioned, paper is sensitive to temperature and humidity. A climate-controlled unit maintains stable conditions, which is critical to prevent the paper from yellowing, warping, or growing mould.
2. Security: Important documents need secure storage. Look for a facility that has solid security measures like CCTV surveillance, individual alarm systems, and secure access controls.

How to Pack Paperwork for Self Storage

The way you pack your paperwork can have a significant impact on its condition over time. Here are some steps to ensure your documents are well-protected:

1. Organise: Sort your documents into categories, such as bills, contracts, tax records, etc. This will not only help during packing but also when you need to retrieve something.
2. Use the Right Materials: Paper is best stored in acid-free file boxes or plastic containers to prevent degradation. Avoid cardboard as it can absorb moisture and attract pests.
3. Prevent Damage: Never overfill the boxes. Ensure the papers lie flat and are not bent or folded. Place heavier boxes at the bottom and lighter ones on top to prevent crushing.
4. Label: Clearly label each box with its contents. This will make it easier to find what you need later on.

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Even with the best packing and storage, it's a good idea to check your documents periodically. This allows you to catch any potential issues early and ensure your paperwork remains in good condition.

While this article is about physical storage, it's worth mentioning the importance of digital backups. Scan important documents and store them securely in the cloud. This provides an extra layer of security and easy access whenever needed.

Benefits of using a self storage unit to keep your paperwork safe.

First and foremost, self storage units allow you to free up much-needed space in your home or office. Instead of dedicating an entire room or closet to storing paperwork, you can transfer these items into storage, creating a cleaner, clutter-free space that can be utilised for other purposes.

Self storage units typically have robust security measures in place that far exceed what most people can implement at home. These may include CCTV surveillance, secure access controls, alarm systems, and in some cases, on-site security personnel. This can provide peace of mind that your important paperwork is protected against theft or unauthorised access.

Many self storage facilities offer climate-controlled units, which maintain a consistent temperature and humidity level. This is critical for preserving paperwork, as fluctuations in temperature or high humidity can lead to paper degradation, yellowing, or mould. By using a climate-controlled unit, you're protecting your documents from these potential damages.

Another advantage is the ease of access and organisation that self storage units can provide. You can organise your documents in a way that suits your needs, and you can access them whenever you need to. Some facilities offer 24/7 access, making it even more convenient to retrieve documents when required.

Self storage units are designed to withstand various types of disasters, including fires and floods. By storing your important paperwork in a self storage unit, you're adding an extra layer of protection against these potential hazards.

For businesses, particularly, storing documents in a self storage unit can be a cost-effective solution. The cost of renting a storage unit is often significantly less than the cost of renting additional office space.

If you need a self storage unit to keep your documents safe, at Pink Storage, we offer affordable self storage units in the UK in cities such as Cardiff, Manchester, Newport and many more.

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