SELF STORAGE TIPS

STORAGE BASICS

Storage Basics Overview
We understand finding a storage unit can be stressful, especially if you are not familiar with the variety of features and options that are available. You first need to consider how long you may need the storage unit – and the different specials that facilities offer.

Save money by only renting enough space for your items. Check out our storage calculator to assist you. Many self-storage facilities offer storage for larger items as well such as cars, campers, and other motorized vehicles.

Take into consideration the items that will be in storage. Will they need a climate controlled unit? Normally items that should be in climate-controlled storage include leathers, furs, clothing, photographs, furniture, DVDs, CD’s, electronics, etc.

Make sure the facility is secured by providing security cameras, fencing, gates, alarms, guards, etc.

CHOOSING A STORAGE FACILITY

  • Are the items you wish to store sensitive to cold, heat, moisture, or dust?

    If you are storing valuable items such as documents, electronics, computer equipment, stereos or television sets you may want to opt for a climate-controlled unit.

  • Do you need to store large items such as cars, campers, or other motorized vehicles?

    Self-storage can be a great option for storing vehicles. If needed, you can rent a climate-controlled unit to help preserve these items. Safety is another factor to consider so you can rest easier knowing that your valuables are properly secured.

  • Is the storage facility you chose secure?

    Compare the safety and security features of facilities before renting. Ask if there are security cameras on the premises. Is the facility equipped with motion lights or otherwise well lit? Some storage facilities offer security alarms and security fences.

PERSONAL STORAGE TIPS

Decluttering: Store or Keep?

As you look around your house, have you realize that you have accumulated more than will fit into the square footage available in your home? Deciding to rent a self-storage unit can help alleviate the clutter. The hard part is deciding what should stay and what should be stored in your self-storage unit.

Keepers

  • Hold onto clothes that are in season and that you wear regularly.
  • Keep at home practical items in regular use like silverware, towels, bedding and soap dishes.
  • Retain often used furniture.
  • Keep photos and wall hangings.
  • Hold onto board games and enough toys to fill your child’s toy box.
  • Keep enough of your college student’s personal objects to make them feel at home when they visit.
  • File current bills and private documents like social security cards and bank account information at home.
  • Show off collectors’ items in a display cabinet.
  • Make room for sporting gear that someone in the house uses every few days.

Storage-bound

  • Store out-of-season clothing and footwear.
  • Box up extra items that clutter your cupboards like excess towels, the good silver used only on holidays, extra blankets needed only in winter.
  • Store photos and wall hangings that haven’t seem to make it on the wall.
  • Pack away extra toys that you have no room for. Rotate them in and out every few weeks so that your child can enjoy all of them. Involve your child in the decisions.
  • Stash tax documents and other papers that may be needed but are seldom reviewed.
  • Store collectors’ items that take up too much room and don’t look good on display.
  • Pack up the out-of-season sporting gear.
  • Bundle garden tools together in the offseason and stick them in a garbage bin in your self-storage unit.
  • Ultimately, use your discretion to decide what stays and what goes. Label your stored goods well.

Holiday Decoration

Home Appliance Storage

Spring Cleaning and Storage

Document Storage

Military Storage

Student Storage

Motor Storage

WHY USE SELF-STORAGE?

Reduce Clutter

Reduce clutter and free up needed space in your home or office by renting a self-storage unit. Storing a few boxes, old appliances, old toys, or even clothing can allow more room for other items

Security

In addition to a lock, facilities are often protected by a security fence, surveillance cameras, a gated entry, limited entry after hours, exterior, or onsite management. Self-storage units give you the benefits of both extra storage space and added security.

Safety

You may be handy around the house and enjoy renovation projects, but between jobs, a self-storage unit can keep those power tools, ladders, saws, and drills away from curious children reducing the risk of possible accidents around the house.

Space

Homes often do not have the storage space to hold large items. For example, boat, cars, and RV’s, you may not have room for them in your garage or driveway. A self-storage unit could give you a place to store such items that provide protection from the weather and some added security.

Insurance

When renting a unit you may be required or at least offered insurance. Insurance will replace your valuables if they are stolen or damaged while in storage. Self-storage insurance may be cheaper than homeowner’s or renter’s insurance.