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Summer is one of the best and most popular times to move, declutter, and reorganize. No one wants the hassle of moving in the rainy spring or snowy winter. Whether you're relocating, tackling a renovation project, or making space for summer wedding guests, self-storage can be your best friend during this time of year.
But let's face it, moving in the summer heat can be challenging. Before you start moving your belongings into self-storage, here are some summer storage tips to help you stay safe, organized, and, hopefully, cool.
Why is Summer Great for Renting Self Storage?
In our expert opinions, summer (especially early summer!) is optimal for renting a self-storage unit. Why?
- Weather: The weather is more predictable, and you're less likely to encounter unfavorable conditions, such as rain (and especially snow).
- College Student Transitions: Between semesters, students are heading home or beginning internships. They'll need a place to stash their dorm or apartment essentials.
- Seasonal Lifestyle Changes and Decluttering: You will need a place to store away your winter gear, making space for bikes, kayaks, camping gear, and patio furniture at your home.
- Moving Season: Summer is the prime time for moving into a new home, and self-storage is a great temporary solution when transitioning between houses.
- Home Improvement Projects: Warm weather is ideal for home renovations. Clear out your valuables and furniture while you work. Take advantage of month-to-month leases on 5x10 or 10x10 storage units near you.
Top Tips for Moving and Storing in the Summer Heat
Move Early or Late in the Day
You want to avoid peak sun and scorching midday temps. So, schedule your move for early in the morning or later in the evening. You'll have more daylight hours to move in the summer, so you can take advantage of mornings and evenings. It'll be cooler, and you may be able to avoid traffic on the road.
Stay Hydrated
It sounds simple, but it's so easy to forget. Make sure to keep your Stanley bottle by your side, and keep water bottles on hand for anyone else helping with your move. Take breaks in the shade to cool down and regroup. Even if you're moving into an indoor, climate-controlled storage unit, you'll still be outdoors when loading and unloading boxes and belongings.
Wear Lightweight, Light-Colored Clothes
Dress in moisture-wicking, breathable clothes in light colors. This will help you feel more comfortable and lower your risk of heat exhaustion. We do not recommend wearing any dark fabrics, as they'll absorb the heat.
Use Climate-Controlled Storage
Both you and your belongings will appreciate climate-controlled storage in the summer months. Extreme temperatures can damage a wide range of items, including electronics, wood and leather furniture, photographs, artwork, antiques, and candles. A climate-controlled storage unit is air-cooled during the summer months, keeping your valuables protected.
Keep Items Out of the Sun
While packing and unloading, ensure that you don't leave items sitting in direct sunlight. Sun exposure can warp, fade, and ruin fragile items and furniture. Cover sensitive items with blankets or sheets, and avoid placing plastic or wax-based items outdoors, if possible. Also, look for shady areas to temporarily place these delicate things. Do not leave them in hot vehicles for extended periods.
Bring a Cooling Fan
One of our favorite gadgets is a wearable cooling fan. These inexpensive neck fans are rechargeable and have multiple speed settings for ultimate comfort. They can go a long way during your move and are great to have on hand for vacations, beach days, and yard work. You can snag one on Amazon!
Wear Sunscreen
Whether you're moving into an indoor, climate-controlled storage unit or loading up an outdoor one, be sure to wear sunscreen. You might not think you're in the sun long enough to burn. But, even 30 minutes of sun exposure can cause you to.
Label and Organize Efficiently
While packing, clearly label all of your boxes. If any of your boxes contain summer gear that you'll need immediate access to, write "summer" on them. These boxes should be placed near the front of your storage unit for easy access.
Reward Yourself
After moving in the heat all day, you deserve a little treat. Reward yourself with something refreshing: ice cream, a quick dip in the pool, or an icy cold beer in the shade.
Cons of Moving in the Summer
While summer is the busiest time for moving, and is ideal for families tied to academic calendars, there are a few considerations to keep in mind.
- Moving Rates: Moving companies may charge higher rates from May to September since these are peak moving months
- Summer Heat: will make moving less comfortable than the spring months
- Busy Summer Schedules: Your calendar may be a bit more hectic during the summer, especially if you're a sports family or planning family trips. Will you have as much free time to move during the summer months? If you must move or use self-storage, block time off to move into your unit.
- Damage to Belongings: Each season poses this hazard, so it's something to consider. In the summer, extreme heat can ruin items. During transport, you should make sure fabrics, artwork, electronics, and other delicate items aren't sitting out in the sun
Ready to Rent Self Storage this Summer?
Summer storage does not have to be a stressful process! Renting a storage unit will actually help you streamline your move and simplify your projects. Just remember to stay safe and cool.
If you're looking for a storage unit near you, Storage Star can help. Our storage experts can help you find the right unit for your summer storage needs. Whether you're looking for a quick place to store items, long-term storage, or vehicle storage for your winter car, we've got it. Storage Star has a variety of storage unit types and storage unit sizes!
You can find a Storage Star storage facility near you right now - just check out our website! If you need more assistance, give your local Storage Star facility a call. We can help you get your unit before the summer rush.
FAQs
How far in advance should I reserve a storage unit?
At Storage Star, you can reserve a storage unit up to seven days before you need it. Even during the busy summer months, we have storage units available at a location near you.
Can I rent a storage unit just for the summer?
Yes! If you only need storage for the summer months (for example, between semesters), we can help you out. Our leases are month-to-month, so there are no long-term agreements.
Is climate control necessary during the summer months?
It depends on what you're storing and how hot and humid it will get near you. We recommend checking out our Climate Control storage guide to see what items are best suited for a climate controlled unit. If you're storing durable goods, though, you're good-to-go with an outdoor, non-climate controlled unit.
Can I store electronics without climate control?
Regardless of how warm the summer months may get, we always recommend opting for a climate-controlled storage unit if you're storing electronics.
Can I store outdoor gear like bikes and camping equipment?
Of course! You can store all of your summer sports gear (and winter, too) in a storage unit.
Do you offer student storage for summer break?
Yes, we do! Our leases are month-to-month with no long-term commitments. You can rent a storage unit just for the summer months.
