Arrange Storage Space
By the time you hold your event, you will likely have been collecting donations for months. Don’t underestimate the amount of space you will need to store them. There are a couple of types of storage you will need.
 
First, you will want a very secure location in which to keep gift certificates and gift cards. These items spend just like money. Even a small file box might contain thousands of dollars worth of certificates. Keep these locked up! You should also keep a record of identifying marks, like serial numbers, on the certificates you receive. Then, make sure you keep this record in a separate location. If a theft does occur, this information will be invaluable to law enforcement.
 
You will also want a fairly large storage area in which to keep the other items that are donated. In general, you want a clean, dry space. It should be secure, and easily accessed. It needs to have enough room that the items can be stored without having to pack them in so tightly that you risk breakage, or can’t get to items as needed.
 
Depending on the conditions at this storage area, you may need a third space for items that are more sensitive to their environment, like wine, books, and fine art. Constant, cooler temperatures and controlled humidity levels are better for these items. A secure office space or home might be best for these items. (A home might normally be too warm to store wines, which are best stored at 50 degrees (F). For short term storage, however, even a 70 degree home is preferable to an uncontrolled environment with wide temperature swings.)

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