As the Labor Day holiday weekend looms ahead and the last days of summer feel endless, those who are well-seasoned Portlanders understand that the rainy season will be here before you know it.
Planning a Move?
Moving when it's cold and wet is never ideal, but in the Pacific Northwest, planning for bad weather is never a bad idea. Sometimes, timing is what it is, and rescheduling is not an option. You just have to make the best of the situation. Fortunately, Downtown Self Storage has covered loading bays, heated storage and rentable U-Haul trucks. Even in poor conditions, we can help your move go smoothly. Here are some of our favorite tips to keep the rain from making a mess of your move:
Use Plastic Bins
Plastic bins aren't just excellent for long-term storage but also great for moving in poor conditions. As with any water-resistant material, a plastic box will keep the rain off of your things. Moisture is also a concern for storage, and plastic is an excellent way to keep things nice and dry. Plastic boxes are especially important for electronic devices, paperwork, and books. We also recommend storing desiccant packets in the boxes for electronic devices to ensure dryness from ambient moisture and humidity. Clear boxes are always nice, as you can just see the contents of the box without having to open it and rummage around. Otherwise, use a waterproof marker to list your items on the box.
Cover What You Can
Furniture, art, and collectibles are unlikely to take kindly to being rained on. Tarps, furniture covers, bubble wrap, and even cling wrap can all be used to protect rain-averse items. Clothes can be stored in trash bags, as can removable upholstery. Tarps and hooks can scratch wood, so it's always a good idea to pad furniture with a moving blanket or comforter before wrapping with a tarp.
Special Considerations for Art
Of course, art items require special care. It goes without saying, but under no circumstances should you allow the tarp or protective covering to touch the actual canvas of a painting, for instance. Tyvek or Dartek are excellent materials for wrapping a framed artwork, and the frame should keep the material away from the canvas. Of course, we always recommend hiring professionals to transport valuable pieces, especially in delicate conditions. They will be best equipped to keep your items safe.
Don't Forget to Gear Up
Staying dry yourself is also important! Being cold and wet can lead to all kinds of problems. Wear a raincoat at a minimum and avoid slipping by wearing shoes with good traction. Keeping a dry change of clothes is also an excellent idea.
Have a Dry Place to Load and Unload
Downtown Self Storage has covered bays to help keep you dry when loading or unloading your vehicle to or from your storage unit. But having a dry (or less damp) spot to prep before you pack the truck is massively helpful. Ideally, this area is a foyer or entryway, so you won't track the rain into your new place as you load or unload.
For more tips about moving and storage, check out our other blogs!
A Crash Course in Storage Sizes
Rent a U-Haul: Are you in need of a U-Haul for your move? Contact our self-storage professionals at either location to reserve your U-Haul today!
Boxes and Supplies: Downtown Self Storage is your one-stop location for packing and moving supplies. Whether you're moving or just looking for specific items, We have everything from bubble wrap to boxes.
The KGW School Supply Drive is still going! Until the end of the month, you can drop off school supplies for local kids at either of our locations or donate here.
Celebrate one of Portland's largest art festivals this Labor Day weekend! Downtown Self Storage is thrilled to sponsor Art in the Pearl®, Portland, Oregon’s annual Fine Arts & Crafts Festival. Learn more here.
DOWNTOWN SELF STORAGE - DAVIS STREET
Website: Davis Street
1305 NW Davis Street
Portland, OR 97209
503-388-4060
DOWNTOWN SELF STORAGE - JOHNSON STREET
Website: Johnson Street
1304 NW Johnson Street
Portland, OR 97209
503-388-4061
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