It’s common to need extra storage space just for certain items, from furniture that’s due to be sold to sports equipment or camping gear. Occasionally, though, it’s necessary to store full household contents.
Common reasons for storing full household contents
Among the most common reasons for storing full household contents are:
- temporarily relocating for work
- a gap between vacating one home and occupying the next
- travelling for an extended period
- storing the possessions of someone who has passed away or moved into assisted living
- temporarily moving in with your family or house-sharing.
What size storage unit you’ll need for household contents
This depends on how large your home is and the furniture and possessions you have. Here’s a general guide to how much space you’ll need:
- a 12 m2 unit can store the contents of a one-bedroom flat or bachelor pad
- a 16 m2 unit can hold the contents of an average two- to three-bedroom house
- a 33 m2 unit can comfortably store the contents of a large four-bedroom home.
It’s better to choose a slightly larger unit. A little extra space helps you pack the storage unit with room to manoeuvre in case you need access during the storage period.
Hiring a moving company
You’ll need the help of a moving company to transport the contents of an entire household.
An experienced moving company can help you pack, protect your furniture during transport and get everything to the storage unit in one truck load.
Check out these lists of top 10 moving companies in Cape Town and Johannesburg to help you find a reliable mover. The recommendations are based on client reviews.
Tips for packing your storage unit
You need to be methodical when positioning items in a storage unit.
This makes items easier to find and streamlines unpacking when you empty the storage unit.
Place heavy items at the bottom
Heavy, stable items like beds and tables should be positioned low down to act as bases for boxes and loose items. For example, a rolled up carpet can be placed on top of a bed.
Leave appliance doors slightly ajar
Fridges, freezers, washing machines and other appliances should be stored with their doors wedged open to prevent mould.
Label boxes clearly
You might think you’ll remember what’s packed in each box but, after a few months, all the boxes will look the same.
Flatpack where possible
Disassemble furniture before placing in storage to save space. Make sure you keep any bolts and screws in a safe place.
Create access space
Leave a gap down the middle of the storage unit so items at the back can be accessed without unpacking the unit.
Make clever use of space
Small items can be stored inside cupboards, under tables and even inside the fridge.
Make sure you follow the next tip so you know where you’ve placed items.
Create a map and inventory list
Draw a basic sketch of where things are located in the storage unit and write a full inventory list with notes.
Self-storage with XtraSpace
XtraSpace offers clean, secure self-storage units that are ideal for storing full household contents. Our larger storage units range in size from 12 m2 to 33 m2, perfect for the full contents of most homes.
Make sure you check our current storage specials to see how much you can save on storage costs.
Contact us for more information or browse to find a branch near you.