Storing Office Furniture in Self Storage

As a business owner, there may come a time when you need to store your office furniture, whether it’s due to office relocation, minimising downtime during renovations, or moving your office in stages. 

Self-storage can be a lifesaver in these situations, providing a secure and convenient place to keep your valuable furniture while you sort things out. 

In this moving office guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about storing office furniture in self-storage, from choosing the right unit to keeping your furniture safe and sound.

Why Store Office Furniture in Self Storage?

There are several reasons why you might want to consider using self-storage for your office furniture. Let’s explore some of the most common scenarios:

Moving to a New Location

Relocating your office can be a daunting task, especially when you have a ton of furniture to move. Storing your office furniture in a self-storage unit can help make the process more manageable by allowing you to move and store items at your own pace. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure that your furniture remains safe and secure during the transition.

Minimising Downtime

If you’re renovating or redecorating your office, storing your furniture in a self-storage unit can help minimise downtime by keeping your workspace clear and uncluttered. This approach allows your employees to continue working without any disruptions, while your furniture stays safe and out of the way.

Moving Your Office in Stages

If you’re moving your office in stages, self-storage can be a convenient solution for temporarily housing your furniture until you’re ready to complete the move. By using self-storage, you can gradually transfer your furniture to your new location, making the process more manageable and less stressful.

 

Challenges of Storing Office Furniture

While self-storage can be incredibly useful for storing office furniture, there are some challenges you’ll need to consider:

Expensive Office Furniture

Office furniture can be quite expensive, especially if you’ve invested in high-quality pieces. Storing your valuable furniture in a self-storage unit can help protect your investment by keeping it safe and secure until you’re ready to use it again.

Bulky Office Furniture

Office furniture can be quite large and cumbersome, making it difficult to move and store. Self-storage units come in various sizes, so you’ll need to carefully consider the size of the unit you’ll need to accommodate your furniture.

Potential Damage to Furniture

Moving and storing office furniture can pose a risk of damage, especially if not done correctly. To keep your furniture in pristine condition, you’ll need to take precautions when packing, moving, and storing your items.

 

Choosing the Right Storage Unit

When it comes to storing office furniture, selecting the right storage unit is crucial. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a unit:

Size of the Unit

You’ll need to choose a storage unit that can comfortably accommodate all of your office furniture. To determine the right size, take inventory of your furniture and consider the dimensions of each piece. Remember that you’ll also need to factor in space for aisles and access.

Temperature-Controlled Units

If you have wooden or leather furniture, you might want to consider using a temperature-controlled storage unit. These units maintain a consistent temperature and humidity level, which can help prevent damage caused by extreme temperatures or moisture.

Security Features

Your office furniture is a valuable investment, so it’s essential to choose a storage facility with robust security features. Look for facilities that offer 24/7 video surveillance, gated access, and individually alarmed units to keep your items safe and secure.

If you need self storage in East London, or Islington, be sure to check out Urban Locker, we have top-notch security features and various unit sizes to suit your needs.

Tips for Storing Office Furniture Safely

To keep your office furniture safe and in excellent condition while in storage, follow these tips:

Disassemble Furniture When Possible

Breaking down your office furniture into smaller components can make it easier to move, pack, and store. Disassembling items like desks, shelves, and chairs can help you maximize space in your storage unit and minimize the risk of damage during transit. Be sure to label and store all hardware and components together to make reassembly easier when the time comes.

Use Protective Materials

When packing your office furniture for storage, use protective materials like bubble wrap, moving blankets, and plastic covers to safeguard your items from scratches, dents, and other damage. Pay particular attention to fragile or delicate pieces like glass tabletops and mirrors, ensuring they’re adequately protected and padded.

Stack Items Strategically

When arranging your office furniture in the storage unit, stack items strategically to maximize space and minimize the risk of damage. Place heavier items on the bottom and lighter items on top, and avoid stacking items too high to prevent toppling. Ensure there’s enough space between stacks to allow for easy access and airflow.

Store Electronics Properly

If you’re storing electronic office equipment like computers, printers, and copiers, be sure to pack and store them properly to prevent damage. Use anti-static packing materials to protect against static electricity, and store electronics off the ground to avoid potential water damage.

Consider Additional Items You May Need to Store

In addition to office furniture, you may also need to store other items like office supplies, files, and equipment. Be sure to consider these additional items when selecting the size of your storage unit and plan for adequate space to keep everything organized and accessible.

Sizing Guide for Small, Medium, and Large Offices

To give you an idea of the storage unit size you might need, here’s a rough guide based on the size of your office:

• Small office: For a small office with a few desks, chairs, and filing cabinets, a 50-75 square foot storage unit should suffice.
• Medium office: If you have a medium-sized office with more extensive furniture like conference tables, bookshelves, and additional workstations, you might need multiple 100-150 square foot storage units.
• Large office: For a large office with multiple workstations, private offices, and a significant amount of furniture and equipment, you’ll likely require multiple storage units of 200 square feet or more.

Keep in mind that these estimates are just a starting point, and your specific storage needs may vary based on your unique situation. If you would like to see how much it would be to store your office furniture with us, get a quote today.