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Document Storage: What Is It and When Do You Need It?

We live in the information age. Important papers pile up quickly, from photos and medical records to contracts and tax documents. But with growing piles of paper comes great responsibility — and by that, we mean the responsibility to store them properly.

So what exactly is document storage? At its core, it refers to providing safe spaces specifically for important paperwork. This is different from other storage in that environmental and accessibility factors become much more important. After all, what good is storing something if you damage it or can’t access it when needed?

In this blog post, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about document storage and the best ways to arrange it for your personal or business needs.

What Is Document Storage?

A businesswoman going through various files in a storage box

Document storage goes beyond merely hoarding papers in a drawer or filing cabinet. It’s a systematic approach to safeguarding your essential records, whether they’re financial documents, legal papers, or sentimental keepsakes. It’s basically a specialised fort for your paperwork, where each document has its own designated spot and is shielded from harmful elements.

How Does It Work? 

The process is surprisingly straightforward. You gather your documents, entrust them to the experts at a secure document storage facility, and voilà, your files are in safe hands. 

These self storage facilities employ cutting-edge security measures, from surveillance systems to fire prevention, to make sure that your documents remain in mint condition.

Which Documents Should You Store?

Various files and papers neatly piled on a table

When we think “important documents”, the mind typically jumps to things like:

  • Legal contracts
  • Tax returns
  • Property records
  • Medical history paperwork

And while these definitely fall within the document family, many other paper goods also require specialised care, including:

  • Old photographs
  • Awards, degrees, and certificates
  • Manuscripts and other written works
  • Vital records like birth and death certificates

If it’s printed on paper and should be preserved long term, it qualifies!

Warning Signs You Need Document Storage

A cluttered office desk filled with piles of papers

  1. Overflowing Office Space: If the desks in your office are disappearing under mountains of documents, it might be time to consider document storage. Clearing the clutter not only creates a more organised workspace but also boosts productivity.
  2. Data Security Concerns: Some documents require extra protection against theft or unauthorised access. Document storage facilities offer top-notch security features, including 24/7 surveillance and restricted access, guaranteeing your sensitive information stays confidential.
  3. Compliance and Regulations: Certain industries are bound by strict regulations regarding their documents. Non-compliance can lead to legal troubles and hefty fines. Document storage service facilities are well-versed in these regulations, and can help you stay on the right side of the law while keeping your documents accessible when needed.
  4. Business Growth Pains: With growth comes an influx of paperwork. Instead of drowning in an ocean of documents, use document storage to keep everything organised. It’s a proactive step to adapt to expansion without sacrificing your efficiency.
  5. Preserving Precious Memories: Not all documents are boring legalities or financial reports. Some are filled with memories — old letters, photographs, and mementoes that tell the story of your life. Document storage provides a safe space for these irreplaceable treasures, protecting them from the ravages of time.

How Document Storage Differs From Traditional Storage Spaces

So, what makes document storage unique compared to storing everyday boxes and furniture? Two key things set it apart:

Environmental Protection 

Since documents can quickly degrade or be damaged, storage facilities that offer archive services need to regulate light, humidity, and temperature. Excess moisture causes mildew and mould growth, which can corrupt paper. Heat and UV light also speed up deterioration over time.

Easy Accessibility 

Unlike storing a seasonal closet of clothes, you often need specific documents at a moment’s notice. So self storage spaces tailored for storing paperwork keep them conveniently accessible. This allows you to quickly reference anything from past tax returns to property sale records.

Best Place for Document Storage

A Wigwam Self Storage facility

Now that you’re on board with document storage, you’ll want to look for the best (while still affordable) option. Here are a few reasons why Wigwam is your best choice:

  • Wigwam Self Storage takes security seriously. Our facilities are equipped with advanced surveillance systems, access controls, and fire prevention methods to provide the utmost protection for your documents.
  • Whether you have a few documents or an entire archive, we offer flexible storage solutions. We’ve dealt with all types of document storage, from small businesses to large corporations.
  • We understand that accessibility is critical. Our user-friendly websites, professional staff, and easily accessible locations make it a breeze to retrieve your documents whenever you need them, saving you time and effort.

Outsourcing your document storage needs to Wigwam Storage is not just a smart move for your peace of mind; it’s also a cost-effective solution. Say goodbye to the expenses associated with maintaining an in-house storage system! From heirloom photos to medical histories, our specialised self storage units offer a TLC that typical storage spaces can’t provide. 

Get in contact with us today to start the process of preserving your precious papers!

Self Storage for Digital Nomads

The remote work revolution has led to a growing community worldwide: digital nomads. Are you one of these laptop-lugging travellers who traverse the globe while managing their work-life through Wi-Fi and video calls? Lucky you! But what happens to all your stuff while on the road? How do you keep your home life stable and your travels hassle-free?

That’s where self storage comes in. We’ll be discussing the reasons digital nomads need self storage, its various benefits, what to look out for in a self storage facility, and where to find the best deals.

Do Digital Nomads Need Self Storage?

A digital nomad looking something up on their laptop

When you picture a digital nomad journeying through Europe with nothing but a backpack and a smile, self storage seems like an unnecessary luxury. Can’t you and all these minimalist wanderers fit their whole life into a carry-on? 

Not always. Many nomads still have possessions, furniture, and other assets back home that don’t make sense to sell or drag around the world.

Self storage offers the perfect in-between for digital nomads who want to travel light but still have a place to land when they return. Storing your larger items also allows flexibility if you want to settle down in a new place without buying a bunch of new stuff immediately. And what about all those trinkets and souvenirs picked up on the road? Extra luggage fees can add up fast! 

Self storage gives travellers returning home a place to unpack their boxes of travel souvenirs. Digital nomads need storage solutions just like any other home-living resident.

What Types of Digital Nomads Would Benefit From Self Storage?

A digital nomad working while staying in a beautiful country

Which digital nomad jobs will most likely make self storage worth the extra cost? Here are a few fields that drive a lot of gear and equipment storage needs:

Content Creators 

Photographers, videographers, and bloggers haul props, camera equipment, lighting, and more around the world to capture engaging content. Self storage provides them with a secure stash for precious photography and video gear between trips back home.

Online Instructors 

Virtual teachers, tutors, and lesson coordinators have lots of specialty books, learning tools, props, instruments, and electronics that need to be securely stored when bouncing between destinations. Keeping curriculum supplies and teaching aids safe eases your stress while travelling.

Software Developers 

Contracted software engineers who collaborate with companies often keep sensitive technical equipment and files that need safe storage solutions with limited access. Their focus will be on protecting IP and hardware from getting damaged or lost while they are overseas.

E-Commerce Entrepreneurs 

As an online seller, you’ll need to manage vast product and inventory stores that can easily go well over your limited space when travelling abroad. Self storage lets you keep merchandise shippable and your sales fluid while reducing the carrying costs of huge shifting global inventories.

How Self Storage Benefits Digital Nomads

A remote worker storing stuff away in boxes for self storage

The transient lifestyle of digital nomads pairs nicely with the flexibility of self storage. Here are some perks self storage offers to any travelling remote workers:

Security 

Knowing your stuff is safe and secure back home will let you sleep at night when you’re constantly in motion. Storage units give digital nomads one less thing to worry about while adventuring abroad.

Accessibility 

Reputable self storage companies make accessing your unit easy enough during return visits home. Whether you’re back for the holidays or just need to swap out seasonal clothes, the easy access to self storage puts your stuff conveniently within reach whenever you need it.

Affordability 

With flexible contracts, adjustable storage unit sizes, and easy-pay methods, self storage allows you to scale storage up or down depending on travel plans rather than lose money on unused rooms and closets back home. Self storage provides a budget-friendly way to hold onto important possessions without the ongoing costs of property taxes, rent, or mortgages.

Protection 

Have you seen those baggage carousels spit out the battered remains of once-treasured souvenirs and family heirlooms? Self storage lets travellers keep their precious possessions safe however long their digital nomad lifestyle goes on, without harming their belongings.

What To Look Out for in Self Storage as a Digital Nomad

While self storage offers lots of perks for digital nomads, you’ll want to keep a few things in mind when picking the right storage solution:

  1. Clean Units: Protecting leather goods, electronics, wood furniture, and other environmentally sensitive items is a must. Look for indoor, well-maintained units to prevent any damage while you’re gone.
  2. Security Features: Make sure your facility has solid security protocols like alarms, video surveillance, and on-site staff members. Make sure you make it clear who can access your unit.
  3. Easily Accessible Locations: Accessibility can make or break a solid storage solution for your transient lifestyle. Unlike the average tenant renting storage nearby while settling down in place, digital nomads won’t necessarily be in the same area or country every time they need to access their unit. You should look for facilities that offer storage at locations convenient to major transit hubs, shipping carriers, and airports whenever possible. 
  4. Good Insurance Policies: Make sure you understand any insurance options in case of theft, fire, flood or damage. Storage companies generally allow you to purchase various levels of insurance tailored to the value of your belongings stored. 

The Best Self Storage Facility for Digital Nomads

A Wigwam self storage facility

For digital nomads seeking secure, convenient storage on the move, Wigwam Self Storage has flexible and affordable storage solutions to meet your roaming lifestyle needs.

Let us handle your possessions, freeing you to focus on life’s journeys without worrying about the stuff left behind. Wherever the digital nomad lifestyle takes you, we’ll be back home taking care of your beloved belongings!

Get your hassle-free quote today.