When Selecting a Self-Storage Facility
- Think about location. Are you going to need to access your
storage building frequently? If so, aim for someplace
nearby.
- Consider how much space you really need. Self-storage
facilities rent units in all different sizes. It’s best to opt for a
smaller storage unit and pack it to the ceiling rather than
pay for space you’re not using. If even the smallest storage
units are too much, look into mini-storage facilities: self-
storage facilities that specialize in small loads.
When Packing Up Your Self-Storage Unit
- Try to use boxes that are a uniform size, they’re easier to
stack (remember; keep the heavy ones on the bottom and
the light ones on top).
- Leave small walkways between the boxes and furniture in
your storage unit so you can easily get to the items you
want without having to move anything around.
- If you’re storing a lot of packing boxes in your unit, try to fill
them to the top, even if it’s just with padding and old,
crumpled newspapers. Boxes that are only half-filled tend
to collapse if anything’s placed on them.
- If you’re putting any metal objects into storage – like lawn
mowers or file cabinets – it’s best to treat them with rust
protector first, or at least wipe them down with an oily rag.
- Most public storage facilities have ample security.
However, it’s still wise to take a few precautions of your
own against theft. Pack your storage unit so that your most
valuable items are at the back, and purchase a high quality
padlock to put on the door.
- The humidity in your self-storage unit can cause your
furniture to warp and your appliances to mildew. Leaving a
space between your stuff and the unit’s wall allows for air
to circulate within the unit. Laying plastic sheeting on the
floor and stacking boxes on top of wooden pallets can
prevent condensation damage. So can using old linens or
other fabrics, instead of plastic, to protect your stuff from
dust.
- Under no circumstances should you keep anything
flammable or combustible in your storage building. This
means no gasoline, oil, cleaning fluids or paint thinner. If
you’re storing any machinery that runs on gas, drain the
tank before you store it.
Tips and Tricks to Self Storage
Success
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You store it, You lock it, You keep the key.