How Storage For Summer Can Help Students With Move Planning

Picture this: it's the last day of the semester, your dorm room looks like a tornado hit it, and the thought of moving everything home for the summer feels like climbing Mount Everest. Sounds familiar? If so, you're not alone. Students across the country face this dreaded scenario every year. But what if I told you there's a way to make it easier? Utilizing storage options can save you time, reduce stress, and ensure the safekeeping of your belongings over the summer break. Let's dive into how student storage can help you with move planning this summer.

The summer move dilemma

Why moving out is a hassle

The end of the semester or school year is already stressful enough with finals, projects, and saying goodbye to friends. Adding the logistics of moving out on top of that can feel overwhelming. The challenge intensifies if you're an out-of-state student, juggling the transportation of all your belongings back home. Who has space in their car for an entire dorm room anyway?

Common issues students face

One of the biggest headaches students face is the lack of vehicle space. Most student cars aren't designed to haul a mini-fridge, a mountain of textbooks, and three suitcases of clothes. Additionally, limited time to pack and move out before the campus closes adds to the pressure. Lastly, storing items in unsuitable conditions like a friend's basement or an unprotected garage can lead to damage, causing more stress.

Benefits of using student storage solutions

When speaking with Anthony Licata from Reebie Storage & Moving Co, he says, "Using student storage units from a trusted moving and storage company during the summer is a great way to store your items safely and securely without having to clutter your parents or the family home. These units also make it easy to move items back and forth between dorms or a campus apartment."

Using effective storage solutions also have the added benefit of:

1. Convenience - Storage solutions allow you to access your belongings when you need them. Many storage facilities are located near campuses, making it easy to drop off and pick up your items. Flexible rental terms tailored to student schedules mean you can rent a unit just for the summer, without long-term commitments.
2. Safety and security - Worried about your stuff getting damaged or stolen? Storage units offer climate-controlled environments to protect your belongings from extreme temperatures and humidity. High-security features like cameras, alarms, and controlled access ensure that your items are safe and sound, giving you peace of mind while you're away enjoying your summer vacation or taking up a part-time job.
3. Cost-effective - Think storage is expensive? Think again. Many storage facilities offer exclusive discounts, student discounts and promotions, catering to all different packages and making it an affordable option. Plus, you can share storage units with friends to split the costs, making it even more budget-friendly. You can even store your items chargeable per box or per item. Prices start as little as $25 per box and $120 per couch or mattress.

Types of storage options

A representative at Hollander Storage & Moving Co said, "Storage units make it easy to store a wide variety of items or furniture thanks to the varied size or application options available. Whether storing just a few pieces of furniture during the summer or storing an entire studio's worth of items over college break, there are plenty of cost-effective units to fit students needs, short-term or long-term."

Some cost effective storage solutions include:

1. Traditional self storage units - A traditional self storage unit is a popular choice for college students storing items over summer break due to their accessibility and variety of sizes. With 24/7 access, you can retrieve your belongings anytime. However, arranging transportation to and from the unit can be a hassle.
2. Portable storage containers - Portable storage containers are delivered directly to your location, perfect for storing your belongings over summer break. Once you pack, they pick up and store the portable containers at a secure storage facility. This eliminates the need to transport but it might be more expensive, and you'll need space to place the container while you pack.
3. Campus storage services - Campus storage services are specifically tailored for university students and often include pickup and delivery. This service can be incredibly convenient, but availability may be limited to certain schools or regions.

Tips for choosing the right summer storage solution

When asking Paul from Ray the Mover, what advice he can provide when choosing the right storage solution, he said, "With so many options, it can be hard to know what type of storage you need. When shopping around or getting quotes from storage facilities, take into account the amount of items you have to store, the type, any climate-control concerns you might have, your budget, and your storage term. This will help narrow down your options and accurately compare the quotes you receive."

When choosing the right storage solution, remember to:

1. Assess your needs - Start by inventorying your belongings, leading up to your summer break to determine the size of storage you need. Consider the duration you'll need the storage unit and what items will require special care, such as climate control.
2. Research and compare - Don't just go with the first storage facility you find. Look for reviews and ratings of local storage facilities to get an idea of their reputation. Compare prices, services, and security features to find the best fit for your needs.
3. Plan ahead - Storage units can fill up quickly during the end-of-semester rush, so reserve your unit early to ensure availability. You'll be surprised how many others, have the same college move planning idea. Coordinate with friends or roommates to share storage space and costs, making the process more affordable and efficient.

Packing and organizing for storage

"When packing for storage, it's important to use high-quality packing materials and to label every box to keep yourself organized. Always store the heaviest or sturdiest items on the bottom and work your way up to the lightest items on top. This will not only keep more fragile items safe but make it easier to unload or access items in your unit." - Excel Moving & Storage

1. Efficient packing tips - Labeling all boxes clearly and on multiple sides of the box with the contents inside will save you time and frustration when you need to find something later. On the other hand, by making sure the boxes are not overloaded and overpacked, it will help you avoid items from being crushed or falling out through the base of the box.
2. Organising your unit - Create an inventory list of stored items, so you don’t forget what's where. Place frequently used items near the front for easy access without having to dig through everything.
3. Protecting your belongings - For fragile items, use bubble wrap and blankets to prevent breakage. Store electronics and sensitive items in climate-controlled units to avoid damage from temperature fluctuations.

What items to store over summer

When school is out and you are preparing for university summer break, it’s essential to decide which items to store to make your living space more manageable. Here are some common categories of items that college students often consider storing:

1. Seasonal clothing - Store away winter clothes such as heavy jackets, sweaters, and boots, making room for lighter summer attire. This not only declutters your space but also keeps your seasonal wardrobe organized.
2. Academic materials - Textbooks, notes, and other school supplies that won't be needed during the break can take up valuable space. Keeping them in storage until the new term begins can help you maintain a tidy environment.
3. Furniture - If you're downsizing your living situation or moving home for the summer, consider storing extra furniture, dorm room essentials, decorative items, and bedding that won't be used during your time away.
4. Electronics & musical equipment- Save space by temporarily storing electronics, such as desktops or extra monitors, that may be cumbersome to move back and forth. Guitars, digital keyboards and piano moving can be challenging. Ensure that these items are well-protected and stored in a climate-controlled unit if necessary.
5. Sporting equipment - Items such as bikes, surfboards, ski gear or snowboard equipment and any other sporting gear that are not needed over the summer can also be stored. This keeps your living space clear for more frequently used items.

Wrapping Up

For students planning on moving back home over the summer, storage solutions offer an ideal and hassle-free way to manage belongings. Instead of packing up their entire dorm room or apartment and transporting it all back home, students can conveniently store their items in a secure storage unit. This not only saves them from the physical strain of moving items back once summer is over (which can be quite costly if moving out-of-state) but also mitigates the logistical challenges associated with transporting large items such as furniture, bicycles, and bulky textbooks. By opting for a nearby storage facility, students free up space at home, ensuring they return to a clutter-free environment. With the right storage option, you can focus on enjoying your summer break without worrying about your belongings and when you return from the summer, you know that your belongings are not too far for you new college moving move in day. Start exploring local storage options today and plan your summer college move early to avoid last-minute stress. Happy summer moving!