If your shipment requires storage for a period of time, Movers have storage facilities that will house your possessions in a safe and dry environment.
The normal storage method is called “containerization”. This method uses plywood containers measuring (on average) 7’ by 7’ by 5’. The Mover will load your items inside these containers and stack them inside their warehouse in rows usually three (3) high and sometimes four (4) high. Location of your container(s) is tracked by a locator system, which is based on rows and container numbers. Items that do not fit into these containers have special placement in the warehouse such as rug racks, sofa racks or containers, etc.
The warehouse is protected from fire by various methods. Sprinklers systems or a heat and smoke detection systems may protect your shipment. You may want to ask your Mover for a tour of their warehouse. It is important to know how your possessions are protected from a catastrophic loss. Some warehouses have cameras installed for security purposes.
If you are storing your shipment for a long period of time (over 60 days), extra care must be taken to remove items that would deteriorate over time. Furthermore, items that come from a damp area in the house (basements, kitchen, storage sheds, etc) should be dried out before the moving van arrives. It is important to alert the moving crew about these items. The damp items should be stored together in the storage container, if they must be moved, away from the other items in your shipment since they may cause some damage to the drier items. If any item(s) are wet, they should not be moved.