Tag Archive for: storage

How Self Storage can help an online / E-commerce / small / startup business

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Is your home getting cluttered with paperwork and stock? Do you have documents strewn across your lounge and kitchen bench? If so, it’s probably time to start thinking about moving your at home business elsewhere, or at least some of it.

Depending on what your small business is and what your storage provider allows. A commercial storage unit can provide you with all of the amenities you need to run your business efficiently. Using business storage will mean less clutter in your home and more space for storing business materials such as; files, archives and stock. As well as provide you with more ‘office’ space at home and allow you to be more organised.

Commercial storage can be a great option for small, E-commerce or online businesses. However, if you’re thinking of extending your small business it’s great to look into your options first and what it is that you actually require. Here are some great tips and information to help you choose what’s best for you and your business.

Talk to your commercial storage provider

It’s best to discuss with your storage provider what it is that you can and can’t do with your commercial storage unit. Some storage facilities may allow you to have customers come and go as you like, and some may not. For example, a storage unit can be great if you’re running a small thrift shop. If your commercial storage provider lets you, you can meet customers and conduct sales out of your unit. However, you need to discuss this first and ensure that it’s okay to do so.

Pros of using business storage

Choosing to use commercial storage for your business will not only benefit you, but it will also benefit; your house, the people living with you, and of course, your business. Running a business from home can be overwhelming and eventually you will run out of room. Renting a self storage unit will help you to declutter your work space and organise your inventory, as well as a range of other things. Not to mention it’s also budget friendly.

Reduce Clutter

Your at home space for your small business may be crammed full of excess stock, equipment and documents. In many instances, these items are often unused and not needed on a daily basis. Using business storage is a great way to declutter and also helps to create more working space for your home office. Furthermore, a commercial storage unit can be great for storing; documents, archives, stock and old office equipment. As well as a range of other materials.

Security Features

Another great pro to using business storage is knowing that your items will be safe and secure. Unlike your home, most storage facilities will be fitted with CCTV surveillance, key coded gates and other security features. Increase your peace of mind by knowing that your expensive stock and important documents are safe and secure.

Furthermore, at Store Ur Stuff we provide safe and secure Adelaide storage with; 24hr surveillance cameras, key coded gates and alarm systems. Visit our website or contact us on 08 8371 0000 for more information.

Convenient and Flexible

Using commercial storage can be convenient and flexible. Most storage facilities offer 24hr access, meaning you can come and go as you please. This can be super beneficial to your business, especially if your home is nearby. Self storage can also be convenient as your customers can visit you at your storage unit (if your storage provider allows it) rather than your home. Therefore, helping you to keep your work and home life separate.

Cost Effective

Self storage is probably the most cost effective solution to your home-based business. Forget about those expensive power bills and committing to a long term rental contract. When using commercial storage, you don’t have the stress of paying power bills, water bills or any other cost that would come with renting a small building. All you have to worry about is paying your monthly fee.

Additionally, at Store Ur Stuff we offer a range of business storage solutions starting from as little as $168 a month. Plus no lock in contracts and minimum of 1 month stay!

Businesses you can run from a self storage unit

General Business Storage

Whether you’re working from a big or small office, running out of storage room can often be an issue. Storing your; excess stock, archives, files and old business equipment is a great way to free up space in your office. This could also be a great way to make room for another employee if needed.

Online Business

Running an online business from a small or at home space can be difficult. Whether it be on Ebay, Etsy or even a business through an Instagram account. You’re going to need space to not only work, but to also store your stock. A commercial storage unit can be a great way to keep your stock organised all in the one place. As well as ensure that it’s safe and secure at a storage facility. Furthermore, you could use your storage unit to sort through stock, pack products ready to send, or even as a photo studio for your products.

Handy Man

As a handy man you may have a lot of expensive tools and work gear that probably takes up a lot of space at home. If so, a commercial storage unit can be a great place to store all of these items. This can be super beneficial if your home is far away from the location’s you usually work at. Choose to use a storage facility in a convenient location, that way you can stop in and grab tools as you need during your work day.

Second Hand / Thrift Store

Depending on laws and what your storage provider allows, you could run a thrift shop out of your commercial storage unit. A storage unit could be used to store your stock as well as meet customers and conduct sales from. This would be a much cheaper alternative to renting a small building. Plus you could choose from a range of storage unit sizes. Furthermore, a commercial storage unit would also be great for solely storing excess stock.

Property Styling & Home Staging

Commercial storage can also be a great alternative if you’re running a small property styling business. Renting a large building can be expensive and it can sometimes be hard to find one in the right location. Furthermore, a storage unit would not only be cheaper, but also be more convenient as you can choose a location closer to where you need (there are lot’s of Adelaide storage units to choose from). This way you know that your expensive furniture and decor is safe and secure and you can come and go as you please.

Time to move your business in to commercial storage!

As mentioned above, using self storage for business purposes can be beneficial for many reasons. It’s cheaper, more convenient, safe and secure and you can access your goods whenever you need. Commercial storage is great for businesses such as; thrift shops, handy mans, online shops and home stylists. Plus many more!

Furthermore, there are many storage facilities in Adelaide which means more variety in size, location and price. Rather than what you would have if you were looking for a building space. In addition, Store Ur Stuff is great for commercial storage as we offer a range of storage sizes from indoor to outdoor. As well as offer competitive pricing and a safe and secure facility. View pricing and more information on our website, or alternatively call us on 08 8371 0000.

Lastly, prior to renting a storage unit you should always check with the self storage manager on what it is that you can and can’t do from your commercial storage.

Storage Facilities – who to choose

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Not everyone has enough space to store all of their possessions. You may have just moved out of home into a smaller apartment. Or additionally, you may have valuable belongings that you would feel more comfortable with being placed in self storage. Finding the perfect sized storage space that is most suitable to your needs can be difficult. Especially if it’s your first time using storage facilities. That’s why our team at Store Ur Stuff are here to help with everything from unit sizes, payment options, packing boxes and more. Furthermore, here is some information, tips and tricks for choosing the perfect storage facilities.

Choosing your Storage Provider

The day has come and you’re ready to find the best self storage provider, and with this comes careful selection. Additionally, there are a lot of factors you need to take into consideration. Such as, choosing a safe provider with storage nearby, a clean and tidy facility and being the right fit for what you need. As well as 24 hour storage access, surveillance cameras and temperature controlled storage units. Lastly, cheap self storage is not always the better option.

Storage Space

Most Storage facilities will offer a range of different storage options. Depending on what it is that you’re wanting to store, it is best to carefully select your space. Storage facilities offer storage options starting from as small as a locker, up to space big enough to fit a boat. As well as some offering indoor and outdoor storage. Therefore, it is essential to choose your space carefully to ensure you’re not paying for more than you need.

Payment Options

At times it can be hard to keep up with admin life. This is why it’s great to choose a self storage provider that offers online payment options. As well as auto payments. Additionally, setting up auto payments online can save you money. You will never be late on your storage account and will avoid late fees.

Long Term and Short Term Storage

Storage facilities can be a great short term or long term solution. Although, finding a storage facility that offers both can sometimes be difficult. Storage facilities that offer flexibility and no fixed lease are a great option for both short and long term storage. For example, if you’re looking for a new house and need to store furniture in the mean time, a storage facility without a fixed lease would be best suited. That way you are able to cancel your lease stress free as soon as you no longer need it. Short and long term storage options are an important asset to consider when choosing your storage provider.

Packing Materials

It’s always best that you use the highest of quality packing materials to store your goods. Sometimes it can be difficult to source these materials. That’s why choosing storage facilities that offer in house packing materials is a great option. Ultimately, saving time on finding packing materials elsewhere, and knowing you can purchase them last minute for your storage solutions. Store Ur Stuff offer a wide range of packing materials from; moving boxes, couch covers, archive boxes, bubble wrap and more.

Storage with Store Ur Stuff

Furthermore, when choosing your self storage provider you need to consider whether they are safe, reliable and have access to the things you need. Choosing a storage facility that offers long term storage, short term storage and different payment options is also important. This will help ensure your self storage experience is hassle free. In addition to this, choosing storage facilities that are fitted with surveillance cameras is also highly important.

Although there is many storage providers to choose from, Store Ur Stuff is a great contender. With safe self storage, competitive pricing, secure facilities fitted with 24 hour CCTV surveillance and online payment options. Additionally, view booking options, payment options and all other storage needs on the Store Ur Stuff website.

Caravan Storage – How to prepare

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Purchasing a caravan is a great investment and fun for the whole family to jump in for a little getaway. However, failing to prepare for caravan storage during the off season can lead to costly damage. We have previously looked at vehicle and caravan storage options while it is not in use. Now lets look at how to prepare your caravan for storage and the steps you should take to protect it.

Clean Inside the Caravan

Empty the contents for caravan storage

Empty all personal and food items from the caravan. Closely check all of the cupboards, drawers, under furniture and beds to ensure you have completely emptied the caravan. Remove used tea towels, bed sheets and towels to wash so they are clean and fresh for next time. Store expensive items like a TV, laptop or other appliances in a locked cupboard, or alternatively take them out. This will prevent your caravan from being a target for break ins whilst in self storage. Remove any food items in the cupboards that may leave mouldy smells or attract unwanted pests. Make a list of everything you have removed or need to replace to ensure you don’t forget anything on your next trip.

Scrub and vacuum interior for caravan storage

Thoroughly clean inside your caravan from top to bottom prior to putting it in self storage. Scrub and wipe down any surfaces and empty cupboards. Vacuum the carpets, couches and any corners to eliminate dust build up and traces of food. Food will attract rodents and pests which can cause damage to your caravan. Cleaning the interior of your caravan will ensure that it stays in great condition whilst in caravan storage and is always ready to go for the next trip.

Clean the fridge and freezer

Defrost the fridge and freezer and empty the contents from both. Give them a good clean to ensure they don’t smell of last nights dinner. Ensure the interior is dry after cleaning and leave both the fridge and the freezer doors ajar to avoid any mould build up. Additionally, place a box of baking soda or dry sac in the fridge to draw out excess moisture.

Close windows, vents and blinds

Protect your caravan from letting any unwanted weather in. Just like water damage, direct sunlight can damage the interior of your caravan during storage. So it’s just as important to close blinds as it is to make sure all windows are closed and locked. To prevent mould forming from excess moisture make sure all caravan awnings are dry and rolled up tightly. This is also a great opportunity to check your caravans seals to ensure that they are 100% weather proof, especially when it comes to washing the outside of your caravan.

Clean the Outside of your Caravan

Clean and dry exterior

Time to give the outside some TCL. Invest in a soft-bristle brush attached to a long broom handle so it is easy to reach the high and awkward spots. Clean the outside of the caravan with your preferred washing solution. Retreat Caravans say that using dish soap can strip the paint of wax and protective coatings, leaving it vulnerable to scratching and sun damage. For best results wash your caravan with a car washing detergent. Use a small step ladder to get access to the roof of your caravan to get any tough spots like dried bird droppings. Simply rinse off with a hose or bucket. High pressure cleaners may cause damage to the paint work. 

Cover your caravan

The minimum step you should take to protect your caravan whilst in outdoor storage is to invest in a caravan cover. This will not only make sure the exterior is protected from the weather but it will also keep your caravan looking good for longer. Again, make sure your caravan is completely dry before covering to prevent moisture build up. Also, ensure the cover is breathable, this too helps prevent condensation.

Keep air circulating

Leave air vents in your caravan uncovered so air can circulate inside the caravan. This will ensure your caravan is not stuffy and stale when you take it out again. Circulation of air will filter your air or clean the air. It will also help diffuse or spread any pollutants added to the air, like any food smells.

Mechanical Checks Before Storing your Caravan

Disconnect the battery

Caravans have batteries to power the appliances when your caravan is not plugged into an electrical source. Having your battery disconnected whilst in storage will save your electrical items from draining the battery whilst it is not being used. The last thing you need is to get to your destination and find out the fridge or lights are not working because the battery has been drained.

Only disconnect the battery once it has been fully charged. Never leave it fully drained. It is also important that your check the battery every couple of months whilst it is in storage. This will ensure the battery does not drain. A fully charged battery can prevent deterioration and will ensure your house on wheels is ready when you are.

Check the tyres before and after caravan storage

A quick trip to the service station to check your tyre pressure before storing. This will save you time in the long run. Depending on how long your caravan will be sitting in storage, it is a good idea to pump the tyres to the optimum pressure. Your tyres will naturally lose pressure while it’s in caravan storage. Alternatively, if you know your caravan will be in storage for an extended period of time, jack it up to take the pressure off the tyres. Cover the tyres to protect them from the elements and to avoid deterioration.

Grease trailer hitches

Trailer hitches will need to be lubricated before storage and again when you pick it up after being in caravan storage. Apart from the general wear and tear this will prevent, it will also eliminate the awful sound of metal scrapping on metal when you turn a corner and any friction this can cause. Once you have lubricated the hitch ball cover it. Now that your caravan is ready to be rested and stored after it’s big trip don’t forget to check on it every now and again. This will assist in picking up any issues well before your next caravan getaway.

New Secure Vehicle Storage Area… NOW OPEN!

Store UR Stuff has extended! We are excited to announce the development of our new vehicle storage area is now open. With 24 hour security monitoring and recorded surveillance. As well as security fencing, PIN coded access and security lighting, you can rest assured your caravan will be safe and secure. To find out how to protect your caravan from theft and break ins contact Store UR Stuff  and reserve your spot today.

Locations for a Caravan Getaway

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When the season is right, what better excuse to head down and pick up your caravan from storage, gather the family and hit the road. Are you thinking about your next location for a caravan getaway? We have looked at vehicle storage options and how to prepare your caravan for storage. Now, let’s look at some top locations in South Australia for your next caravan holiday!

Family friendly caravan getaway to Renmark

Only 254km from Adelaide. This small town in South Australia’s riverland area is the ultimate location for your next caravan getaway. Stay at the BIG4 Holiday Park, Renmark and enjoy activities suitable for you and the family. This Big 4 caravan park features a waterpark, multiple playgrounds, games room, and powered waterfront sites for your caravan. Additionally, while you’re there visit Australia’s largest rose garden, Renmark Club and canoe the riverland. Further to this Renmark is home to Wilkadene Brewery, Twenty Third Street Distillery and many surrounding wineries.

Camp beachfront in Port Elliot

Located only 84km from Adelaide. Port Elliot sits on the scenic Horseshoe Bay located on the South Coast of the Fleurieu Peninsula. Famous for it’s coastal beaches and walking trails, as well as the Cockle train and Pt Elliot Bakery. In addition, it’s only a short 15 minute drive to Victor Harbor featuring the Granite Island recreation park and the Bluff viewpoint. BIG4 Holiday Park wins again, but this time in Port Elliot of course. This is the best holiday park to stay with your caravan and can be a cheap holiday option if you’re from Adelaide. Furthermore, stay in a beachfront powered site where you are within walking distance to Horseshoe Bay!

Jump on the ferry and head to Kangaroo Island

Feel like venturing just a bit further on your next caravan holiday? Jump on the SeaLink Ferry to South Australia’s iconic Kangaroo Island. SeaLink Ferry accept online bookings of caravans with a maximum length of 4m and 2.3m high. But if your caravan is longer and higher than that you can make a reservation by calling directly. Depending on what area of KI appeals to you, there are quite a few caravan parks to choose from. Kangaroo Island Shores – Caravan Park & Camping is located close to the SeaLink ferry terminal at Penneshaw, overlooking Hog Bay beach. Kingscote Tourist Park and Family units is located 3km from the largest town on Kangaroo Island. In addition to this, Parndana Hotel Caravan Park & Cabins is located in central Kangaroo Island. This location gives you easy access to some of the main attractions such as; Seal Bay and Flinders Chase National Park. Furthermore, all of these holiday parks provide powered camping sites for your caravan getaway.

Storage for your caravan

Once you return from your perfect caravan getaway, you don’t want to take up your driveway with your caravan. Ever considered self storage? Store Ur Stuff is extending it’s parking bays for vehicle storage. These bays are ideal for caravans, trucks, cars, boats and trailer storage. Featuring competitive pricing and secured PIN coded gates. As well as a one way drive and park system and 24/7 recorded CCTV. Ultimately providing safe and secure self storage options. Want to secure a spot or want to know more? Give the team a call on 08 8371 0000.

Lastly, do you have a favourite caravan getaway location in South Australia? Leave a reply below to let us know what it is.

Photo credit: Port Elliot Holiday Park

Moving Boxes

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Moving boxes are an essential item when moving house. They keep all your loose and fragile items together and protected while in transit. However not any old cardboard box will do. It is important that you invest in quality moving boxes to transport and store your items. Boxes designed especially for moving will better protect its contents in the move. These boxes are also made out of double corrugated cardboard to make them stronger to handle heavy household items such as books, crockery and knick knacks. They are uniform in size making them easier to stack more steadily. As mentioned in organising your storage unit, boxes stack easily which is important to consider when stacking them into a moving truck as well as a storage unit.

Where can I get moving boxes?

Most self storage facilities and removalist companies stock a range of moving boxes to purchase. Many people see purchasing moving boxes an additional expense in an already very expensive period. Some storage facilities sell second hand boxes which will cut some of the expense. When purchasing second hand cardboard boxes make sure they are still in good condition and the strength of the box has not been compromised where sticky tape has been removed or by dents and tears. Also ensure there is room left on the cardboard box for you to label them clearly. Some facilities even buy back your boxes once you have finished with them, making the expense minimal in the long run.

Which moving boxes will I need?

If you have ever gone to a self storage facility to purchase moving boxes you will notice that there is a large range and almost a box to pack anything. There are speciality boxes like bike boxes, golf boxes, wine boxes and even map boxes. There are standard moving boxes you can use to pack most things, however there are some speciality boxes, like a TV boxes, that is worth the expense to make sure the item inside arrives safely. The right box plus bubble wrap, butchers paper or filing should be used to ensure the contents are not damaged during transit. Store UR Stuff’s recommended removalists Relocation Guys also recommend limiting the maximum weight of a moving box to 15 kilograms.

Tea Chest

The dimensions of the Tea Chest Box are 61cm (height), 51cm (depth) and 41cm (width). This box is particularly useful for packing bulky but light items such as clothes, shoes, bed linen and cuddly toys you’ve yet to grow out of. It is important not to fill the box with heavy items as they will be too heavy to lift.

Book Carton

With double thickness walls and dimensions of 40.6cm (length), 29.8cm (width) and 43cm (height), the Book Carton storage box is ideal for storing breakables and fragile items.

Picture Carton

Picture Cartons are ideal for storing frames, mirrors and pictures. With dimensions of 104cm (length), 7.5cm (width) and 77.5cm (height), making it the perfect storage box for your flatter possessions. Additionally, you may not think you need to use moving boxes. Although, it’s essential to do so as it will keep your possessions protected from any possible damage whilst in transit.

Port-a-robes

Port-a-robes are an essential large moving box when it comes to the storage and transit of clothing. Especially valuable clothing items. Additionally, this moving box enables you to hang clothes up with dimensions of 59.4cm (length), 47.6cm (width) and 109.9cm (height). Also, Port-a-robes help to protect all garments from potential damage, making them a great choice of packing materials. Lastly, this method of clothing storage allows airflow through the box, helping to avoid any moisture being trapped inside.

Lay Flat Wine Boxes

The Lay Flat Wine packing boxes are an ideal choice for the storing and transit of wine. These moving boxes are able to keep your wine safe and secure due to moulded inserts holding the bottles in place. Also, this storage box complies with Australian Post Parcel dimensions. Therefore enabling you to use for postage, transit and storage. Overall, the Lay Flat Wine boxes are an essential packing supply for the transit of wine.

Labelling Moving Boxes

When using moving boxes you should always use labels. This is a great way to keep your possessions neat and easily accessible. Additionally, labelling boxes will make it easier to find things once placed among other moving boxes. Furthermore, another great tip is to create an inventory listing what is contained in each box, and then keep a copy of that inventory. This will enable you to locate possessions without the hassle of sorting through multiple moving boxes.

Quality of Moving Boxes

Although the cheaper option may seem better, this is not always the case with cardboard moving boxes. Cheap moving boxes can sometimes cause more hassle due to not being able to hold much weight. As well as not being secure or fully sealable. Therefore, if you’re wanting to ensure your possessions are going to be safe, opt for the higher quality boxes. Or otherwise purchase moving boxes through your storage provider. That way you’re able to receive help with choosing what’s best for your needs.

Furthermore, when it comes to moving house it is best to ensure you use the best storage supplies. Quality cardboard moving boxes will help to ensure your possessions are safe and secure whilst in transit. Along with this, labelling your moving boxes is also a great tip to make it easier for you to locate possessions once unpacking. Lastly, for more tips and information visit our moving boxes page, or keep an eye on our blog page.

Car Storage – How to prepare

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Car Storage

Not everyone has the luxury of a fully enclosed garage to store their car and protect it from the elements. Like caravan owners, you may require a car storage facility to store your car.  We have already explored vehicle storage options previously and discussed ideas on how to prepare a caravan for storage. Here we will look at what steps you should take to protect a car that is stored outside.

Wash and Wax before car storage

There are many car enthusiasts out there that agree washing and waxing your car is the best protection against the elements. The wax acts as a protective barrier between the dust, weather, pollen, bird poo, etc and the cars duco. In the winter, wax is like a raincoat and will protect the car by not allowing the water to come in contact with the paint. Wax will also protect your car in the hotter months with it acting as a sun block. This is important if you are using car storage in Australia’s harsh summer climate. Make sure the product has a UV protectant incorporated in it for best results.

However, washing and waxing it once and then leaving it will not be suffice. Some enthusiasts recommend washing and waxing at least twice a month to every three months. Also, it is best to dry your car by hand instead of air drying. Air drying can leave water droplets on a car. UV rays will magnify these dropletts causing hard water deposits to be etched into the surface of your car.

Most modern cars these days have a clear protective coating over the paint to protect it from the elements. If you are still concerned you can treat your car to a paint sealant to best protect it. Be reminded though, you will still need to wash and wax your car but perhaps not as regularly to ensure the exterior stays in the best possible condition.

To cover or not to cover stored cars

There seems to be mixed reviews on weather covering your car actually protects it. Some believe that it can do more damage than good with the risk of condensation forming in the engine and the underside of the bonnet. However, a cover can provide a good amount of protection for your car from the sun, debris from trees and insects.

There are all sorts of covers on the market ranging from a standard outdoor cover, ones that can protect your car against the sun, hail and storms, automatic car tents and car capsules. Car covers range from just under $100.00 up to $800.00. Avoid using a tarp or a plastic cover. One made from natural material that breathes is better and ensure you invest in one that suits the elements you are storing it in.

If you are going to invest in a cover ensure it fits your car properly. According to streetsideauto.com a poorly fitted car cover can scratch the cars paint when it is windy. A cover should also fully enclose the car to prevent rodents nesting in small spaces.

Service your car before car storage

If you intend on storing your car for a long period of time it is advised to give it a quick service. There are a few things you can check yourself before storing your car. At the end of the storage period it’s a good idea to call in the professionals.

As a minimum for long term storage, the coolant and oil should be changed. Dirty fluids simply sitting stagnate means any contaminants are sitting around too. In time this can cause more wear and tear on your engine. Dirty oil in particular can make it more difficult to restart your car on your return. The brake fluid and transmission fluid should be refreshed as well.

Petrol in the tank can break down. If you are storing your car for 3 months or more, add a stabiliser to prolong fuel life. By filling your tank before storing will reduce air build up in the tank.

Make sure your car battery is fully charged. The battery will still be drained by the vehicles electronics. Batteries can corrode over time, so if your car storage is long term it is best to remove it. Store the battery in a dry cool area off the concrete to prevent it from cracking. Don’t forget to check the users manual for any other precautions.

Air naturally escapes from your cars tyres over time. If storing short term, fully inflate your tyres so they are not too flat when you pick it up from storage. Tyres these days are now engineered to prevent “flat spots” so it is not necessary to jack the car up. It is also suggested that jacking a vehicle up can cause unnecessary strain on the suspension.

Do not store and forget

Check on your car while it is in storage particularly if it is going to be stored long term. Start your car to keep the battery charged. Check with the car storage facility to see if they have jump starter cables or a battery charger you can borrow just in case you need them. They may have a car wash deal with local car wash and detailing shop or organise one to come to you.

Protect your car in storage

Check your cars paperwork to ensure it is up to date before considering car storage. If your registration or insurance is due to expire whilst it is in storage set yourself a reminder to renew. Contact your insurer to inform them your vehicle is being stored in a secure storage facility and confirm it is fully covered whilst it is in car storage.

Car Storage with Store UR Stuff

Store UR Stuff is extending it’s vehicle storage area with our expansion well underway. Our secure area will have generous 10 meter drive through bays to make storing your caravan, truck, mini van or bus easy and stress free. Our well lit vehicle storage area will have 24 hour security monitoring and recorded surveillance, traceable unique PIN coded access 24/7 and security fencing to ensure your vehicle is protected at all times. Call 08 8371 0000 to reserve your spot today.

Wine Storage

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Most of us purchase a bottle of wine to enjoy right away but for those special wines that we want to cellar there are important rules for red and white wine storage to ensure your wines age well and increase in flavour and value.

Wine Storage Environment

Some winemakers have earned a reputation for creating wine worth aging, certain regions and certain type of wine age better than others, but the majority of wines on the market today are manufactured for immediate consumption and are not designed to age.

These wines are still of high quality and can be stored for 8 – 12 months or so without significant loss of quality as long as temperature, humidity and light of the area is considered. Though some wineries have earned a reputation for creating wine worth aging, additionally, certain regions and certain types of wine age better than others.

Temperature for Wine Storage

The ideal temperature to store wine is between 12-14°C. This temperature needs to remain constant all year round for optimal wine storage conditions. It is not recommended to store wine in the kitchen. This is one room in the house where the temperature can vary through out the day. That is when the oven or stove is on the temperature in the kitchen will heat up. If possible, the temperature should not fluctuate more than 2-3°C.

Heat can damage wine with wine show judge, Adam Walls, saying hot temperatures can cook the wine resulting in the wine losing its freshness. Heat can also compromise the seal of the wine which can lead to oxidation. Oxidation allows more air/oxygen into the wine. This can lead to wine evaporating leaving a low fill level and an oxidized flavor. Do not store wine in non insulated sheds or garages due to excessive fluctuations in temperatures. Avoid areas near heat sources such as heaters or electrical items that generate heat. Also high areas, such as on top of a cabinet, where hot air rises.

Wine Storage Humidity

Ideal wine storage conditions would maintain a 50% humidity level. That is humidity below about 50% is getting too dry and levels above 50% too damp. This maybe difficult to achieve. As long as the storage area has relative humidity levels ranging between 60-80% the wine should not spoil.

Dry conditions dry out the cork, causing it to shrink which can lead to oxidation. The majority of wine produced in Australia today are screw cap sealed. This alleviates the risk of the cork drying out. Wine storage areas that are too damp do not necessarily ruin the wine, it can lead to mold and mildew growing. This can ruin the storage area and wine labels.

Moreover, bottles with corks must be stored on their side. Screw caps can be stored in whichever way (standing up or lying down) suits you best.

Wine Storage in the dark

Do not store wine in direct sunlight. According to The Fine Wine Reserve although wine bottles are designed to protect the wine inside, UV light can break down the molecules that create the special flavors of a wine. This occurs more commonly in delicate white wines like Champagne, Pinot Grigio, and Sauvignon Blanc.

Do not store wine on window sills or bench tops. If storing in wine racks ensure they are placed out of direct sunlight. Areas in the house such as under an internal staircase or the bottom shelf of a cupboard or pantry are better.

Wine Self Storage

Your average wine drinker need not be too concerned about climate controlled secure self storage areas for their wine collection if seeking short term storage options. Wine can be stored short term safely in a insulated storage facility. When moving home for example, wine can be stored in wine boxes and placed in your storage unit.

If storage is for an extended period of time, a climate controlled purpose built wine storage facility should be used. This is also the case for collectors and enthusiasts of wine storing and aging fine wines. These places ensure the temperature, humidity and light remain in the optimal range for your special collection.

What does Booze Brothers say about wine storage?

Booze Brothers Bottle Shops are filled with passionate wine enthusiasts and we asked them for some of their top tips on wine storage.

Booze Brothers Manager (at The Duck), Duane says “Wine should be checked and turned regularly. If possible, store red wine in a climate controlled environment like a cellar. Good reds can be stored for up to 10 years, if a wine reaches it’s optimum it will slowly decrease from it’s best potential so remember to drink at special occasions and enjoy the rewards of your cellaring.”

Want to learn more about wine and wine storage?

Hitsa Industry Training and Employment provide a short 2 day course, Provide advice on Australian wines. If you are working in the wine industry, hospitality or just enjoy wine as a personal hobby this course will further your knowledge on handling, storing and evaluating Australian wine products.