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 office may have suggestions on how big of a storage unit you need and can answer any other questions you have. Check our Storage Sizes and Pricing 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.

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 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.
Purchase a secure lock.
Purchase a self storage insurance as your homeowners or renters insurance may not cover items kept in storage.

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 keep anything flammable or combustible in your self storage unit such as paint, oil or gas.