Self-storage units hold your goods during a move, when you’re looking to declutter and create more space in your current home, or to help run your business. However, some common mistakes can hinder the optimal use of space. Take a look at these simple ways to avoid self-storage mistakes, so you can fully leverage the many benefits of a storage unit.
Mistake #1: Skimping on Self-Storage Unit Size
First-time renters find it hard to estimate the correct size of the unit. While smaller units are more affordable, it’s never a good idea to cram all your belongings into a very tiny area. You may save money now, but in the long run, there’s a risk of damaging your possessions if they’re all jam-packed into a smaller self-storage unit than what’s needed. Unsure of what unit size will work best for you? Visit our website to learn more about finding the right unit size. There’s a handy size guide that illustrates the dimensions for each storage unit size and describes what items can fit into a specific sized unit.
Mistake #2: Forgetting to Plan Well
Placing boxes in an organized manner in the self-storage unit can save you extra work when it’s time to retrieve something. When you crowd the storage space with boxes and items everywhere, there’s no place to walk around and look for what you need when the time comes. Label all the boxes so you know exactly what is in them. Work with a plan when storing. Place things that you may need sooner at the front of the unit. Bulkier items can go in the back. Always leave some space, so there’s a defined path for you to reach everything without restriction.
Mistake #3: Declining Storage Insurance or Protection Plans
Storage facility owners are not liable for any damage that occurs to your belongings while they’re stowed. To ensure the safety of personal possessions, an insurance policy that covers all items in the self-storage unit is a must. Most homeowners’ or renters’ insurance can cover self-storage too, but making a claim on them could affect your premium. We also offer self-storage protection plan options for an additional fee. Should you need to make a claim, your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance plan is not affected.
Mistake #4: Using Discount or Unfit Packing Materials
Packing your items correctly is a crucial first step in storing them well. Using printed newspaper to wrap goods risks the ink from the newspaper bleeding onto items and staining them. Choose excellent quality packing supplies, like sturdy bubble wrap, to protect fragile items from breaking during the move.
Pro tip: Cover delicate items with the bubble wrap facing inward. The bubbles pack against each other to hold the item securely in place, while the outside of the material protects against damage from impact or attrition.
Use blankets and towels to cover wooden furniture or leather sofas. This will not just protect expensive furniture from scratches during the moving process, but also prevent dust pileup on upholstered furnishings.
Use high-quality moving boxes that have a higher crush rating than you’ll find at a big box store. You’ll also want to be sure to use the correct sized box for the items being stored. Many of our storage sites sell packaging supplies at affordable prices to make packaging and moving more convenient.
Mistake #5: Packing Up Damp Items
Moisture can lead to a moldy unit that can damage your items. If you have wet items, make sure they’re completely dry before packing them into boxes. Use a dry towel to mop up any dampness. We offer climate-controlled storage units at many of our facilities with humidity control and temperature controls to keep your possessions at an ambient temperature. Climate-controlled storage is a useful feature if you’re storing items like mattresses, electronic devices, or wooden furniture.
Mistake #6: Forgetting to Keep a Record of Items
Make a list of everything you’re moving into your self-storage unit. Oftentimes, it’s easy to forget what went into the storage room. This can be confusing when you try looking for things later on. Keeping a record of everything that’s in the unit is a smart way to know where exactly to look when you need something. Being aware of what’s in your locker or mini-storage unit also helps from an insurance perspective.
Mistake #7: Neglecting to Research the Storage Company
You’re placing your valued belongings in a storage facility, which means you need to know the credentials of the facility before signing the lease. Conduct research and check out online customer reviews to learn more about the storage company and the amenities it offers. Pay special attention to safety features like 24×7 video monitoring, well-maintained premises, and controlled gate access. If possible, look for pictures or take a tour of the facility to determine its condition. Inquire about additional services like flexible access hours, accommodating lease plans, and labor and packing assistance. This will provide greater peace of mind that you’re picking a storage company that’s reliable and has exemplary customer service. Ask if there’s drive-up or elevator access to the units and dollies. This helps you haul heavy items right up to the storage unit, which saves time and labor. Touring the site will also give you an idea of how accessible it is from your home or other areas within the neighborhood.
Keep these storage tips in mind to make self storage easy and effective. Check out our facilities for your storage needs.
Header photo by Andrea Piacquadio from Pexels
