Which storage type is best for you?

Which storage type is best for you?

When considering storing your personal or business goods away from home, it is worth taking a little time to look at the types of storage available in your location and how suitable they are for your purposes.  You should also check whether there are any limits to your storage insurance for that specific type of storage or individual storage location.

Looking at the suitability if certain types of storage for your needs, consider whether the storage is internal or external, whether you can get access to it when you want, or just within certain times.  Are you going to be storing your stuff over a colder weather period, and, if so, what precautions will you need to take against damp and the potential for mould (especially if you are storing clothing or soft furnishings).  For a run down of the main types of storage and tips for utilising them for their best use, see below.

The most basic of storage types is probably the external metal container.  Typically, this would be an individual 20 ft metal storage container with lockable doors at the front.  These are a good bet if you are looking to store larger items as access is usually good and they open fully at the front so larger items of furniture will generally fit through no problem.  Do be aware though that these containers will make items very cold in winter and fluctuation in temperature and atmospheric humidity mean you may experience some issues with condensation internally which could lead to mould growth.  Using moisture traps and drying crystals inside the container can help with this.   You may also not be covered against all risks here – for example, the storage insurance provided by Store Insure would not cover damage by moth and vermin in this kind of storage

Internal storage with external access.  Similar to a metal storage container but offering an environment which is less affected by temperature and humidity changes.  The advantages of this kind of storage are, again, that you can generally access it ay any time and drive up to the access.  The also can be a good option if you are planning storing a car or larger pieces of equipment

Internal Storage – individual Rooms.  This is probably the closest you will get to replicating the conditions in your home. Ideal for storing smaller items in boxes, clothes, books, vinyl and CDs, business stock etc.  Access is likely to be limited in terms of time and there is no direct access from your car.  Many storage units of this type are temperature controlled and will have good ventilation.  This storage is likely to offer the most flexibility in terms of space with many storage outlets offering as little as 9 square feet of space (about the equivalent to a telephone box)

Wooden crates internally stored – deep storage – Generally, this kind of storage is unsuitable if you need to get access to your things whilst they are stored.  Your goods will be crated up and stored in a warehouse type building.  This type of storage is generally speaking more suitable if you are looking at long term storage and generally speaking for smaller items.

Whichever kind of storage is best for you, make sure that you are protecting your belongings with specialist storage insurance and don’t forget to make a note of any restrictions of cover for certain types of storage.  Always look carefully at insurance which is included in the cost of your storage.  Firstly to make sure that it is suitable for you needs and that the cover level is appropriate, and, secondly, to compare it to the cost of a stand-alone storage insurance policy.  As a general rule, a specialist storage insurance policy, like that offered by Store Insure will offer more flexible cover which can be tailored to your specific needs.

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Patrick Pellens

Author: Patrick Pellens

I started in the insurance industry in 2003 specialising in Personal Insurances such as Motor Bike, Car and Home Insurance.