Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using International Storage Services

Avoid costly errors with these expert tips for safe, secure international storage.

When planning an international move, storage often becomes an essential part of the process. Whether you’re relocating temporarily, waiting for your new home to be ready, or downsizing before shipment, international storage offers flexibility and peace of mind.

However, many people underestimate the complexity of storing belongings across borders. Mistakes like poor labeling, unclear timelines, or inadequate insurance can lead to confusion, additional costs, or even damage to your possessions.

Asian Tigers Group, one of Asia’s leading relocation and logistics specialists, has decades of experience managing both short- and long-term storage for clients worldwide. Drawing from their expertise and insights from the 2025 ATG ChatBar AI Report, which highlighted frequent customer questions about storage, and research by the IMARC Group, this guide outlines the most common mistakes people make when using international storage services and how to avoid them.

1. Not Choosing the Right Storage Partner

The most critical decision is selecting a trusted and accredited moving and storage provider. Choosing a company without international experience or proper facilities can put your belongings at risk.

Asian Tigers Group operates secure warehouses across Asia, all equipped with CCTV monitoring, fire prevention systems, and pest control. The company is a FIDI-accredited mover, ensuring compliance with strict international standards for safety and quality.

Before selecting a provider, verify that they:

• Have a proven track record in global relocation and storage.
• Offer transparent contracts and insurance coverage.
• Maintain secure, clean, and professionally managed facilities.

A reputable company like Asian Tigers combines these essentials with personalized support, ensuring peace of mind even for long-term storage.

2. Failing to Plan Ahead

One of the most common mistakes clients make is waiting until the last minute to arrange storage. Space availability can fluctuate, especially during peak moving seasons, and certain destinations may have customs or security requirements that take time to process.

Asian Tigers recommends discussing storage options during your pre-move survey. This ensures that your goods are packed, documented, and transported directly into storage without unnecessary delays or double handling.

Early planning also allows your move coordinator to help determine the right type of storage: short-term or long-term, based on your relocation timeline.

3. Poor Packing and Labeling

Packing items properly is vital to maintaining their condition while in storage. Many people assume that standard household packing will suffice, but long-term or international storage demands higher protection.

Asian Tigers’ professional packers use double-walled cartons, anti-moisture wrapping, and custom-built wooden crates for fragile or high-value items. Each box is labeled, barcoded, and entered into a digital inventory system, allowing clients to track and retrieve items easily.

Here are common packing mistakes to avoid:

• Using low-quality boxes that collapse under pressure.
• Forgetting to label items clearly.
• Mixing unrelated items in the same box.
• Packing goods that deteriorate in humidity (such as candles or certain fabrics).

With professional packing and clear labeling, you’ll prevent damage and simplify future retrieval or shipment.

4. Forgetting About Insurance

According to IMARC Group, the global self-storage market is projected to reach USD 89 billion by 2033, driven by growing demand for secure, flexible solutions. However, most facilities don’t include insurance by default.

Asian Tigers offers insurance coverage for goods in transit and storage, providing financial protection if something goes wrong. This may also include situations where maritime law requires shared responsibility in the event of a vessel incident.

Your move coordinator will explain how the policy works, what is covered, and any deductibles or exclusions. While serious issues are rare, insurance offers peace of mind and helps protect your belongings throughout the relocation process.

5. Storing Prohibited or Restricted Items

Certain goods cannot be stored legally or safely due to health, safety, or customs regulations. Clients often overlook this, leading to complications during inspection or inventory checks.

Common restricted items include:

• Perishable food or plants
• Flammable or explosive materials
• Liquids and aerosols
• Batteries and hazardous chemicals
• Items of illegal or restricted content

Asian Tigers’ consultants advise clients on what can and cannot be stored, referencing FIDI customs and safety guidelines for each country. Being transparent about your inventory helps avoid unnecessary delays and ensures compliance.

6. Losing Track of Your Inventory

Failing to maintain an organized inventory list is another common error. Without one, you might forget what’s in storage, duplicate purchases abroad, or struggle to locate specific items later.

Asian Tigers’ digital inventory management system provides a detailed, itemized list of all stored goods. Each item is labeled with a barcode, and clients receive detailed inventory listings and milestone updates to simplify item retrieval and storage management.

Keeping a personal copy of your inventory, both digital and printed, is also recommended for quick reference.

7. Choosing the Wrong Storage Duration

Some clients misjudge how long they’ll need storage, leading to either premature retrieval or unexpected extensions. This can complicate scheduling and increase costs.

Discuss your anticipated timeline with your move coordinator in advance. Asian Tigers offers flexible contracts that can easily be extended or shortened based on your relocation progress.

By reviewing your relocation plan regularly, you can adjust your storage period without last-minute changes or penalties.

8. Overlooking Sustainability

With increasing global awareness of environmental responsibility, sustainability in logistics has become a key consideration. Many individuals and corporations now seek partners that prioritize eco-friendly practices.

Asian Tigers is an industry leader in sustainable relocation, committed to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards. Their operations include using recyclable materials, optimizing shipment routes, and reducing waste in storage facilities.

Choosing a sustainable storage partner not only protects your belongings but also supports environmentally responsible business practices.

9. Failing to Communicate Regularly

Even after your items are in storage, staying in touch with your moving company is essential. Some clients forget to update their contact details or inform the provider of changes in plans.

Asian Tigers assigns each client a dedicated move coordinator who provides updates on stored goods, contract renewals, and delivery scheduling. Open communication ensures smooth transitions when it’s time to retrieve or ship your items.

Regular check-ins help you stay informed and in control of your relocation timeline.

Why Choose Asian Tigers Group for International Storage

• Secure Facilities: Monitored warehouses across Asia.
• Professional Packing: Industry-approved materials and methods for long-term preservation.
• Flexible Terms: Short-term and long-term storage options to fit any relocation.
• Global Standards: Accredited by FIDI and OMNI, ensuring consistent international quality.
• Sustainability Commitment: Leader in eco-friendly relocation and logistics.

Asian Tigers’ experience and dedication make it a trusted partner for families, corporations, and diplomats alike. Whether you’re storing for weeks or years, your possessions remain safe, organized, and fully traceable.

Final Thoughts

International storage is more than simply leaving your belongings behind. It’s an integral part of your relocation journey. By avoiding common mistakes like poor packing, lack of insurance, or choosing the wrong provider, you can ensure your possessions remain secure and accessible wherever life takes you.

With over five decades of experience, Asian Tigers Group combines professionalism, technology, and care to deliver world-class storage and relocation solutions. Their team understands that every item has value, and every client deserves confidence in their move.

To explore storage options or request a personalized consultation, visit asiantigersgroup.com. Trust Asian Tigers to protect your belongings, no matter where your journey leads.

Further Reading

[1] IMARC Group. (2024). Global Self-Storage Market: Industry Trends, Share, Size, Growth, Opportunity and Forecast 2024-2033. https://www.insideselfstorage.com/market-conditions/imarc-group-releases-global-self-storage-market-statistics-outlook-and-regional-analysis-for-2025-2033