subject: How Safe Are Storage Containers [print this page] When you use self storage units or indeed any storage solution, you need to ensure both you and your goods are safe. While most people think about the safety of the storage unit, they think about the security and ways to prevent thefts. However, there are other safety concerns you must consider, especially if you are saving money by moving boxes and furniture yourself.
Packing Removal Boxes
When you pack a removal box, keep the weight even in the box. If you load heavy books in one corner of the box and soft toys in the opposite corner, you will have a box that is uneven in weight, which could cause a muscle strain when someone picks up the box. You should keep the weight of each box to about 35 kilograms or less, as this is what one person can pick up safely.
Moving Removal Boxes
When you move removal boxes, you should use a trolley if you can. You can hire a moving trolley with three cornered wheels to enable you to lift a stack of two or three boxes up and down stairs easily. If you are carrying the boxes, keep the box close to your body and carry one box at a time. Park as close to your storage unit as you can to reduce the amount of carrying you have to do to store your boxes.
Stacking Removal Boxes
Think about how you stack boxes and furniture within your storage unit. You do not want a box to fall on someone moving around in the unit. You want to stack heavier furniture or boxes on the bottom and lighter ones at the top, so the heavier stuff does not damage your lighter valuables. Stack boxes carefully, so no box can inadvertently fall on anyone.
Moving Furniture
When you move furniture, you will probably need a friend to help. Make sure both people have a firm hold on the furniture piece and are ready to lift before you lift. Stretch and warm up your muscles before you lift heavy furniture, to prevent strains and sprains. Clear the pathway, so you do not trip over clutter, uneven footpaths or have to carry heavy furniture up hill.
Security of the Storage
Check with the storage company to see how the company manages the security of the storage units and ensure that your valuables are safe and secure.
Other Possible Safety Issues
When you are moving boxes and furniture around, there are manual handling issues. You probably do not move removal boxes every day, so you need to take extra care. Warm up carefully and remember to bend your knees, not your back, to prevent back injury. Make sure you keep your self and anyone else out of the path of moving vehicles or traffic while you are moving your furniture. Look around and avoid any high wires or potholes while carrying furniture to the truck you are taking to the storage unit.
Be careful and safe while you move your valuables to the storage unit. Consider the safety issues and you will have your valuables safely stored for however long you need the storage. Storage containers are safe, but you do need to consider basic safety rules while you move.
