Can’t move yet? Here’s how to store your things safely

You might think that moving across Singapore, from somewhere in the east like Bedok to the west side in Bukit Batok, will be a straightforward, fuss-free experience. After all, it’s just a short distance compared to international moves, right? But surprisingly, even local moves can come with unexpected hiccups. Sometimes your new place isn’t ready, your lease dates don’t match up, or renovations are delayed. That’s when things can get a little tricky.

When move-in day is pushed back, the big question becomes: what are you going to do with all your stuff? From bulky furniture to fragile keepsakes, figuring out where and how to store everything without breaking the bank or breaking at all can feel overwhelming. But with the right tips and preparation, storing your belongings safely doesn’t have to be stressful.

Assess what needs storing

The first step is to take stock of your belongings. Do you need to store everything or just a few bulky items? Maybe it’s just the sofa and dining table that can’t go with you just yet, or perhaps you’re temporarily staying with family and only bringing along a suitcase of clothes.

Go room by room and create a list of what needs to go into storage. This helps avoid overestimating your storage needs (and overspending), and it also makes it easier to keep track of where everything is.

Pro tip: label your boxes clearly; you’ll thank yourself later.

Choose between short-term and long-term storage

Once you know what you’re storing, decide whether you need short-term or long-term storage. If your move is delayed by just a week or two, short-term storage is usually sufficient. Many moving companies offer flexible storage options that charge by the day or week, which is perfect for temporary gaps.

If your delay stretches into a month or more (maybe due to ongoing renovations or unexpected paperwork delays), it may be more cost-effective to consider long-term storage. Be sure to confirm the terms, such as notice periods and access rules, so there are no surprises later on.

Pick the right storage type

Not all storage spaces are created equal. There are typically two types to consider:

• Self-storage units: These allow you to rent a unit and access it whenever you like. Great if you want the flexibility to drop off or retrieve items at your convenience.
• Warehouse storage: These are managed by storage or moving companies, where your items are stored securely, but access is usually by appointment only.

If your items don’t need frequent access and you’d prefer a hands-off experience, warehouse storage is often more affordable and secure.

Pack smart and protect your items

When storing your belongings for any length of time, proper packing is key. Use sturdy, sealed boxes and avoid overloading them. Wrap fragile items in bubble wrap or thick cloth, and always label boxes with their contents and handling instructions.

Consider using vacuum-sealed bags for clothes, blankets, and soft furnishings to save space and protect them from dust and moisture. For appliances like refrigerators or washing machines, make sure they’re thoroughly cleaned and dry before storage to prevent mould and odours.

If you’re storing electronics, remove batteries to avoid leaks and store them in their original boxes if possible.

Climate control: Is it necessary?

In a hot and humid place like Singapore, you may want to consider whether climate-controlled storage is necessary. Items such as electronics, wooden furniture, artwork, and musical instruments are sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity.

While it might cost a bit more, climate-controlled units can help prevent mould, warping, and rust, especially if your storage period is expected to be long.

Don’t forget about insurance

Most people don’t think about insuring their items while in storage, but accidents can happen even in the most secure facilities. Ask your moving company or storage provider if they offer insurance coverage or if you can purchase your own.

This gives you peace of mind, especially if you’re storing valuables or sentimental items that can’t be easily replaced.

Coordinate with your moving company

If you’re working with a moving company, ask if they offer integrated moving and storage services. Many reputable companies can pack, move, and store your items all in one go, saving you the trouble of coordinating multiple providers. It also reduces the number of times your items are handled, which minimises the risk of damage.

You’ll also want to discuss timelines with your mover. It helps to have a rough idea of how long moving takes, especially when considering packing, transportation, storage access, and eventual delivery to your new home.

Store smart to save money

To cut down on costs, only store what you absolutely need to. Can your dining table be sold or passed on to a friend? Could your books or clothes go into a friend’s spare room for a few weeks? The less you store, the smaller the unit you’ll need and the more you’ll save.

Also, compare quotes from different providers and ask about promotions. Some storage providers offer free transportation, discounts for longer-term storage, or bundled deals with moving services.

Conclusion

Delays in moving are never ideal, but storing your belongings safely doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. With a little planning and the right support, you can ride out the wait and move into your new home with everything still in great condition.

Whether you’re waiting on renovations or juggling clashing lease dates, Vimbox Movers has you covered. As a trusted moving company and storage provider in Singapore, we offer secure, flexible, and affordable solutions to keep your belongings safe until you’re ready to settle in.