12 Tips for Storing Business Files and Documents
As we have written in the past, a self‐storage unit can be an excellent investment for the small business owner. Incorporating a self‐storage unit into your business has so many benefits and is an economical option for keeping inventory and overstock and is an especially great option. This is especially true for professionals who must keep files and documents for several years.
Here are 12 tips when using a storage unit for your business records and files.
- Choose your storage unit facility carefully. A climate controlled, highly secured storage
- You or your staff may need to access files quickly and last minute. Make certain you can
- Backup all of your files digitally. This may seem like a huge job but regardless of whether
- Organize your files well. Plan which files may need to be accessed more than others.
- Use a storage planner to plan your unit. See our blog on some great apps that can help you
- Prepare your documents properly for storage. Use only new, clean boxes and do not pack
- If you are planning on storing files for a long period of time, consider removing all staples
- For very sensitive documents, place them in airtight or plastic boxes with acid-free paper
- If you are storing filing cabinets, check documents occasionally to be certain they are not being compromised by temperature. Even in the most controlled facility or at home, your important documents should be checked for this.
- Put all digital documents like CD’s or hard drives in air tight, static-free packaging.
- Never use newspaper as packing material as the ink can bleed onto your documents.
- Label your boxes and keep a digital inventory of everything you have stored. Remember to update your inventory every time you remove or add to your storage unit.
If you would like help with your self‐ storage planning. Total Storage has dedicated professional consultants to help with all your self‐storage needs.