It's almost that time of year again! The sun is shining, the birds are singing, and before you know it, college students everywhere will be scrambling to find summer storage. Don't worry if you're one of them- we've covered you. In this blog post, we'll give you twelve tips for storing your belongings during the summer months. Whether you're looking for a storage unit or you just need some advice on packing, Storage Scholars has you covered. So read on and start planning your summer storage strategy today!

‍

1. Make a list of items you'll need to store over the summer. There is no sense in hauling it back home if you won't be using it. Making a list will help you visualize what's staying behind and help determine how much space you will need (whether renting a unit or storing at home) and make it easier when moving day comes around. That way, your school belongings stay packed. You won't need to dig into boxes or make unnecessary trips to the storage unit. A list will make your life much easier!

‍

2. Decide if you will do it on your own or hire a college moving and storage company to do it for you. Often people think DIY is the cheaper option, but that's not always true. There are a lot of common misconceptions when it comes to student storage, so educate yourself and know all the options you have before deciding on what to do with your stuff over the summer. 

‍

3. Don't wait until the last minute to reserve your student storage space! It's best to book your student storage unit or your movers as early as possible, so you don't risk missing out. Storage units, moving trucks, and moving companies fill up fast with reservations from college students. Booking these early will also help you know exactly what size and type of unit you'll be getting. Ask your college's Residence Life department for company referrals. Often they have partnerships with these kinds of companies so that you can use trusted businesses with the lowest prices. If you wait until the last minute, you could find yourself out of luck and without a plan. At Storage Scholars, a $50 deposit will lock in your reservation even if you're still deciding on your plan. If you change your mind, you can request a refund any time within 7 days. 

‍

4. Invest in sturdy moving boxes and other packing materials, such as bubble wrap and newspaper, for extra cushioning. Flexible plastic containers are another option for storing clothing, books, and other items that don't require boxes. Did you know our custom boxes are sturdier than the standard cardboard box you find at the store? They are perfect for storing your books and other heavy items without breaking them. And best of all, they are complimentary (along with those packing materials) during your campus's supply distribution days, so you can take as many as you need!

‍

5. Label your boxes with a permanent marker and place an inventory list in the box or on its exterior so you can easily see what's inside when it's time to unpack. This will save you lots of time when you're trying to find something in particular! Our custom boxes also have a built-in label printed on them! So you don't have to wonder what information to include and whether the mover will see it. You also don't need to worry about your items getting lost because our labeling system helps our movers organize your items so they can be delivered promptly when you move back to campus or shipped to your new school if you transfer. 

‍

6. Pack items as tightly as possible, but be careful not to overload any container or box. You don't want anything shifting around while in transit! If you think you have enough tape, add one more piece! Storage Scholars gives you all the tape you need at no extra cost so use it liberally. 

‍

7. For fragile items, wrap each piece individually and place it between layers of packing material, such as bubble wrap, for extra cushioning during transit. You can even use towels or clothing if you need more padding. At Storage Scholars, we also provide packing materials for free on supply distribution day, so we encourage you to take as much as you need.

‍

8. If you're storing items such as electronics, furniture, and appliances, clean them beforehand so they don't attract insects or rodents during the summer months. Defrost refrigerators at least two days in advance so you have plenty of time to get rid of water and ice, which could lead to mold while in storage. Wrap any cords tightly so they aren't left hanging out, and tape them securely to the appliance. Using the original packaging when possible is best. Be liberal when using bubble wrap or protective padding on these items. 

‍

9. Some items just don't belong in storage. Aside from the obvious items like food, liquid, and flammable items, there are many other things that you should never keep in storage. Money, valuable jewelry, and intangible items should be taken with you because, if lost or damaged, they cannot be replaced. Accidents happen, and if you lose a family necklace or beloved trinket, no amount of insurance could replace its intrinsic value.  

‍

10. Keep unpacking in mind. A little planning can make your unpacking experience much smoother when it comes time to return to campus. Keep essentials like bedding on the top so you can unpack those items first. Books or school supplies that you might need on your first or second day back should also be handy so you don't go crazy digging through your boxes looking for them. You'll also want some basic cleaning supplies and trash bags handy. Special items like speakers for music or essential oils and diffusers can also help on a long day of setting up your dorm. Pack these items last so they will be the first things you unpack.

‍

11. Take advantage of student discounts on student storage fees. Many storage facilities offer discounts for college students renting space over the summer months. Go a step further and find a vetted company endorsed by your college. Only then can you be sure that the company is reputable and has the lowest cost for its students. At Storage Scholars, we have strong partnerships with our colleges, many of which include special key access so we can pick up and drop off without you being present. We have developed strong relationships with our colleges to ensure a top-notch experience at the lowest cost. All our campus co-founders and movers are students, and many are interns who run their own branch of the business right on campus. You can sign up knowing you're supporting hardworking students while meeting your summer storage needs.

‍

12. Ensure the student storage facility has proper security so your belongings will be safe during summer break. Ask about their surveillance systems and locks when booking your student storage unit. At Storage Scholars, we keep our storage facilities' location top secret for our customers' privacy and security. We can assure you that our units are not only temperature controlled but also completely locked, secure, and safe at all times. Only our workers have access to the facilities.

‍

13. And finally, while it might seem obvious, remember to keep track of which student storage company you've hired! Writing down this information and keeping it in a safe place will save you lots of time and hassle when it's time to move out. Storage Scholars has many modes of communication. You can message us on our live chat, email us, text us, or even follow us on social media! But if you do forget us, there is no need to worry because we'll contact you every step of the way! By the end of your summer storage experience with us, we may even be your new bestie!

‍

Following these 13 student storage tips, your summer break should be stress-free and organized. Good luck on your student storage journey!

For more student storage solutions and advice, check out Storage Scholars' blog for the latest student storage tips and tricks. We're here to help make student storage easy and affordable!

Happy storing!  

‍