Storage Tips
Before you lease a self storage unit from a storage facility, be sure to read the following tips:- Are you going to need to access your storage unit on a frequent basis? If so, locate a self storage facility near your home.
- Visit the storage facility and ask questions. The storage facility manager may have suggestions on how big of a storage unit you need and can answer any other questions you have. Check our Storage Sizes Page to determine an estimate of what size storage unit you may need.
- Determine how much space you are really going to need. It may be better to rent a small self storage unit and pack it full rather than paying for a larger storage unit and not utilizing the space completely.
- Make sure the storage facility offers everything you need. Access, security, climate control and rental help may be important factors.
- Ask the storage facility managers when you can access your storage units. Some storage facilities may allow 24 hour access while others may not.
- Read the lease before signing it. Make sure you are aware of the self storage facility policies on moving out, paying rent and other information.
Be sure to:
- Use boxes that are uniform in size because they are easier to stack.
- Leave walkways between the boxes in your storage unit so you can easily get items you want without moving any of your other belongings.
- Fill your boxes to the top even if you have to pack them with padding. Boxes that are half full may collapse if anything is stacked on top of them.
- Treat your metal objects with a rust protector in order to prevent damage.
- Humidity can cause furniture to warp and appliances to mildew. Be sure to leave a space between your stuff and the storage units wall in order for air to circulate in the storage unit.
- Leave your refrigerator door open to prevent mold from growing inside.
- Use plywood or pallets to keep your belongings off of the floor.
- Store frequently used items at the front of your storage unit.
- Cover your items with sheets or light blankets to keep them protected.
- Check your storage unit at least once a month.
- Use bubble wrap to wrap breakable items. Group smaller items together and mark the boxes.
- Large appliances need care before being moved to the self storage facility. Defrost the refrigerator and freezer to prevent water damage.
- Spray wood furniture with furniture spray before storing it in your storage unit to give it additional protection.
- Consider a climate controlled storage unit when storing candles, furniture, pictures or antiques.
- Purchase a secure lock.
- Purchase the self storage insurance as your homeowners or renters insurance may not cover items kept in storage.
Do Not:
- Don’t use plastic to cover your belonging as it can retain moisture.
- Don’t store any food items in your self storage unit.
- Don’t pack your boxes so they are too heavy to carry.
- Don’t give out your password or gate code to anyone not listed as having access to your self storage unit.
- Don’t use printed newspaper as it can smudge your belongings.
- Don’t store vacuum cleaners with the bag in.
- Don’t keep anything flammable or combustible in your self storage unit such as paint, oil or gas.