Preparing Storage for a Quarterly Archive Cleanup

Ten days before every quarterly visit, we email clients a preparation checklist. Following it reduces on-site time and prevents the archivist from opening drawers you did not intend to include.

Consolidate declared wallets

Move all wallets listed on your pre-visit questionnaire into one room if possible. If some remain in a safe-deposit box, confirm access hours with the bank and provide the box number in writing.

Separate non-wallet materials

Receipts, instruction manuals, and empty packaging often accumulate inside document wallets. Place these in a separate envelope labeled “for review” so the archivist can distinguish them from active catalog entries.

Clear workspace

The archivist needs a flat surface roughly the size of a dining table for sorting, labeling, and binding. Remove fragile items and ensure adequate lighting.

Prepare your previous catalog

If this is a repeat visit, have the bound catalog from the last refresh accessible. We reconcile against it before producing the updated version.

Courier clients

Seal each wallet in an individual tamper-evident bag. Include a signed declaration listing wallet count and any additions since the last catalog. Ship at least five business days before your requested completion date.