Millions of Americans share a passion for collecting furniture, toys, plates, dolls, Lego, and even automobiles. Collecting is fun, exciting, satisfying, and something practically everyone can do. It also opens up the possibility of connecting with others who collect the same things, bringing a valuable social aspect to the hobby.
But what about when you need to store your collectibles or your entire collection? If you’re moving, but your new home is still being prepared, or your collection has outgrown your home, storing your valuable tchotchkes correctly so they stay in pristine condition becomes a big, important issue. To help you do it right, the storage experts at Storage Solutions put together the following information on how to store collectibles in a storage unit. Read on to discover tips, tricks, and storage hacks that empower you to store your precious collection like a pro!
Overview of Collectible Items
At its most basic, a collectible is any item you purchase to grow a collection and an investment that grows over time, like expensive baseball cards. The term “collectibles” covers an extensive range of items. If they have value to you, and you have more than one, almost anything can be a “collectible,” including:
- Toys
- Board games
- Cereal boxes
- Lunch boxes
- Comic books
- Vintage Clothing
- Action figures (GI Joe, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, etc.)
- Barbie dolls
- Plates
- Musical instruments
- Spoons
- Stuffed animals
- Cars
- Wine, beer, and other adult beverages
- Bicycles
- Antique furniture
- Artwork like paintings and sculptures
- Lego building bricks
- Rugs
- Sneakers
Tips for Packing and Storing Collectibles
Because of the often huge differences between collectibles, it’s difficult to say precisely how to pack them. For example, Lego sets, antiques, artwork, action figures, sneakers, and stuffed animals are fragile and must be stored in a certain way. The tips below are universal and will help you pack and store your collection nicely.
- Use uniform boxes. That way, you can stack them perfectly, and the boxes will support each other (rather than putting pressure on your collectibles).
- Be sure to pad the bottom of your boxes with paper. A thick layer of padding will protect your items while being moved and stored.
- Wrap your collectible well. Packing paper works best, but bubble wrap and foam padding might be needed depending on your particular collectibles of choice.
- Use free-standing shelving racks in storage. Yes, you can always stack boxes on top of boxes. However, depending on the fragility of your collectibles, the weight of stacking may cause them to be deformed, smashed, or otherwise damaged. With shelving units, you eliminate this risk. Plus, it makes organizing and finding specific collectibles much easier.
- Consider using climate-controlled storage. Climate-controlled storage units are specialized units that keep the temperature inside consistent. This can be a godsend for some collectibles, as extreme heat or cold can damage or even destroy them. (Anything made of plastic is susceptible to excessive heat.)
- Use clear, plastic storage containers. While more expensive than cardboard, clear plastic storage containers (which can be found at virtually all big-box stores) have several advantages. First, they’re stronger than cardboard and will last much longer. Plastic is also impervious to water and will protect your collectibles from damaging moisture in case of a flood. They also protect from insects and rodents that can chew through cardboard and destroy your precious collection. Lastly, you can see inside plastic containers, making it much easier to organize your collection and find a specific collectible when you need/want it.
Finding the Right Storage Unit for Collectibles
Storage Solutions has several different types of storage units, including outdoor drive-up units, indoor units, and climate-controlled units. Knowing which is best for your collectibles is important and can help you ensure they stay pristine while being stored.
Outdoor Drive-Up Storage Units
An outdoor drive-up unit is the most convenient, allowing you to quickly and easily access your storage unit. These are an excellent choice if you plan to put things into your storage unit and take them out on a regular basis. However, they are also the most susceptible to dust, water, insects, and vermin like mice.
Indoor Storage Units
These storage units are safer from the elements as they are inside a storage warehouse. That means less dust and dirt, less chance of bugs and rodents, and less risk of theft. These units require you to park and transport your collectibles to your unit, which can take extra time and effort.
Climate-Controlled Storage Units
As mentioned, climate-controlled storage units are best for collectibles that can’t withstand extreme heat or cold. They are usually indoor units, also adding another level of safety.
Collectible Storage FAQs
Q: How can you move valuable collectibles to a new location?
A: Pack them very well and rent a moving truck or van. Also, drive slowly and safely between your home and storage unit.
Q: Can shelving units or racks be used in a storage unit?
A: Yes, as long as they are self-standing, any storage or shelving rack can be used in a storage unit. Modifications to walls or floors are not allowed.
Storing Collectibles is Easy, Safe, and Affordable with Storage Solutions
Whether you have a modest collection or one that’s massive and more than your home can hold, Storage Solutions can help you store your collectibles ideally. If you’re moving to a new home and need to store short-term, or you need long-term storage for your collection because you’re out of space at home, Storage Solutions has your answer. If you need help determining which storage unit you need, our storage unit size guide can be very helpful. When you’re ready, reserve your storage unit online, and it will be ready and waiting to store your collectibles easily and safely when you arrive!