| Before moving your goods into a self storage facility it | | | | into a document and store it electronically on your |
| is an important first step to have a complete inventory | | | | computer. It is also a good idea to keep another copy |
| list. You will use this not only to have record of | | | | on a CD. |
| everything that is being stored, but is also valuable in | | | | Use inventory software if you can afford it. This type |
| terms of your insurance coverage by ensuring that | | | | of software makes it easy to record and classify at |
| absolutely every item in your possession is covered. | | | | the same time, but if you cannot afford it there is |
| If disaster were to strike just think how much you | | | | nothing wrong with using a spreadsheet. Just |
| could remember without an inventory. If such a terrible | | | | remember to keep a backup copy for yourself in a |
| event were to befall you an inventory will ensure that | | | | separate location. |
| your insurance company is able to process your claim | | | | Make a detailed list of books, music, closing and |
| immediately. | | | | jewellery. The more detailed as you keep the easier it |
| Here are some tips you can follow when creating your | | | | will be to the insurance company to make a payout. |
| inventory. | | | | Many insurance policies have a $1000 limit for items like |
| Include as much detail as possible for every item on | | | | jewellery, so make sure that any item which is valued |
| your list. This will mean listing the name, quantity and | | | | above this is separately listed and noted on your |
| description plus details of its date of acquisition, original | | | | insurance policy. |
| price and estimated replacement value. Where | | | | Don't forget to include your garage, laundry, basement |
| appropriate you should also record the brand, model | | | | and outdoor areas including the shed. You will be |
| and serial number. Valuable items should also be | | | | surprised at how many items are contained in these |
| photographed, but if you use a digital camera there is | | | | areas and you need to make sure that you will list is |
| no harm in photographing everything you want. | | | | complete by noting every garden tool and all items in |
| Work on a room by room basis. As you move from | | | | the laundry plus everything you have stored in boxes |
| room to room you can photograph everything that you | | | | under the house! |
| see. A digital camera makes this process is very | | | | With a little bit of organisation and planning, you will |
| simple and a room by room photographic record can | | | | complete your inventory in one day. It can be a tedious |
| be invaluable in the event of an insurance claim. Make | | | | and long winded process but the benefits far outweigh |
| sure you look in every cupboard in every room | | | | any effort you will expend. |
| including drawers, and don't forget the walls! | | | | As your items are transported into a self storage |
| Gather up and sort all of your warranty paperwork | | | | facility you can rest assured that in the event of an |
| and receipts if you still have them. Scan every item | | | | insurance claim you are well-placed. |