Sometimes, there is just that overflow of belongings, right? It could be that you’ve recently made an international move to Japan and simply have a bit too much stuff. Or, you’re a new entrepreneur starting your business and need to store your cargo. Perhaps it’s something else altogether. However, self-storage is a big part of life, and, if you’re going to be using it, you should know the basic rules. Hence, we wanted to give you some of the top Japan storage safety tips which we’ve learned over the years. Without further ado, here is our guide to keeping your belongings safe in a storage unit…

Storage in Japan goes a little like this…

In most cases, the reliable way of storing your items in Japan is a company. Usually, they will offer anything from warehouses in Japan to CFS bonded storage. You’re probably aware that space is a big issue in the country, right? Because of this, you shouldn’t be surprised by the way these storage facilities look. Most real estate companies or warehousing companies will rent ocean containers and have them stacked up on unused land. And, on most occasions, if you’re looking for self-storage, you’ll find that there is a shortage of it. Due to the problem of a small amount of space, storage units are a luxury. Hence, when you do receive an affordable and convenient offer, we’d suggest accepting it. But, before you do…

If you want to learn about the top Japan storage safety tips, start with these…

If you’ve never rented a storage container this will most definitely be an experience. To avoid common mistakes and mishaps, we’d advise that you read the tips below. They will help you choose the perfect storage facilities for your belongings or cargo. As always, we suggest that you pick the Japanese storage company carefully. We’ve already talked a bit about renting self-storage in Japan, so, we want to tell you a bit about how to know which facility is the best for you.

If you’re going to be using storage in Japan, find a safe warehouse first

For you to find the perfect storage space in Japan it’s important to search for a facility with a few layers of protection. Depending on what you’re going to be storing, you will need more or less safety for it. Hence, among the top Japan storage safety tips we’ll need to tell you a bit about the different levels of protection:

• The basic level of protection is essential for safe storage in Japan. So, look for a facility with a strong gate and fence around the property. There should be electronic key codes for exit and entry or at least a safety lock of some sort, too.
• The second level of protection which is among our top Japan storage safety tips is video surveillance. If you’re storing valuable cargo or something similar, it’s essential that you have this level of safety. In case something gets damaged or stolen, you will be able to identify the culprit easily.
• The highest form of security in a storage facility is personnel on grounds 24/7. This facility doesn’t have to be open at all hours, however, having a security guard or two tends to deter any potential thieves.

Among the top Japan storage safety tips is knowledge of the ‘forbidden list’

Now that we’ve covered safety in a storage facility against thieves, there is another thing to consider. Even if you’re storing exhibition cargo in Japan, you need to be careful that you’re not harming the possessions of other at the same facility. Hence, we’d advise reading the list of forbidden items. These may be live animals or plants, for example. Or, they could be perishable food, ammunition or flammable items. Also, in some storage facilities in Japan, there is a list of chemicals which won’t be stored. There are a number of reasons why these items are on the ‘forbidden list’. Some of them can attract pests and others are highly flammable. Knowing what and how to store it is definitely among our top Japan storage safety tips.

What are some other tips to keep your belongings safe in storage…

Now that you’ve found the ideal storage company and decided which cargo can be stored, is it enough? You need to know a few more things before packing up the boxes and placing them into the containers. First, we would suggest that you have your own extra security. Pack your belongings in containers which can be sealed by a lock. It is one of the top Japan storage safety tips which can keep your cargo safe. It’s always good to be extra careful, after all.

Next, we would suggest that you don’t assume that everything will be going according to plan. Sometimes bad things simply happen. Storage facilities are robbed or cargo is destroyed during a weather disaster. The best way to make sure that your belongings are safe during these is by having insurance. We’d offer a tip here. Ask the storage facility staff if their company offers insurance. Most of the time, this will be the best deal you can make, as it will be affordable to purchase the whole package at once. Though, if not, you can always get some additional insurance for your stored belongings.

As a final one of our top Japan storage safety tips, we would suggest that you embrace some of the OCD habits. In other words, it’s time to make a list and a map. It’s always a great idea to have the inside of the storage facility drawn on a piece of paper handy to you. This is especially important if you’re storing in a larger place. As for the list, note everything you’re going to be keeping in the facility. It’s good to take down serial numbers and the value of the items. Also, if you’re storing something fragile or valuable, take a picture in case it gets damaged or stolen. This way, you won’t have any trouble with insurance later on.