Reminders of Dos & Don’ts For Storage

by | Aug 5, 2024 | Blog

Here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind when using self-storage:

Dos

  1. Label Everything:
    • Do label all your boxes clearly with their contents. This will save you time and hassle when you need to find something later.
  2. Use Uniform Boxes:
    • Do use boxes of similar size and shape to make stacking easier and more stable.
  3. Create an Inventory:
    • Do make a detailed list of what you’re storing and where it’s located in the unit. This can be a physical list or a digital one.
  4. Protect Your Items:
    • Do use protective materials like bubble wrap, furniture covers, and plastic bins to protect your items from damage.
  5. Maximize Space:
    • Do use shelves to make the most of vertical space. Disassemble furniture if possible to save space.
  6. Store Strategically:
    • Do place items you’ll need to access frequently near the front of the unit. Less frequently used items can go in the back.
  7. Climate Control:
    • Do consider a climate-controlled unit for sensitive items like electronics, artwork, and documents to prevent damage from temperature and humidity fluctuations.
  8. Insurance:
    • Do ensure your stored items are covered by insurance, either through your homeowner’s or renter’s policy or a policy offered by the storage facility.
  9. Pest Prevention:
    • Do use pallets to keep items off the floor and consider using pest deterrents.
  10. Lock Up:
    • Do use a high-quality lock to secure your unit. A disc or cylinder lock is usually recommended for better security.

Don’ts

  1. Don’t Store Prohibited Items:
    • Don’t store hazardous materials, perishable food, live plants, animals, or illegal items. Always check the storage facility’s list of prohibited items.
  2. Don’t Overfill Boxes:
    • Don’t overpack boxes to the point where they are too heavy to lift or may burst. This can cause damage and make them harder to handle.
  3. Don’t Forget to Plan for Access:
    • Don’t stack boxes and items in a way that blocks access to other parts of the unit. Leave a clear path to the back if possible.
  4. Don’t Store Unprotected Valuables:
    • Don’t store valuable items without proper protection or insurance. Consider keeping very high-value items at home in a safe.
  5. Don’t Use Cheap Packing Materials:
    • Don’t use low-quality boxes or packing materials that can easily break or fail to protect your items.
  6. Don’t Ignore Moisture Control:
    • Don’t neglect to use moisture absorbers or dehumidifiers in areas with high humidity to prevent mold and mildew.
  7. Don’t Leave Items Unsecured:
    • Don’t leave items unwrapped or unsecured, especially fragile items. This increases the risk of damage.
  8. Don’t Store Items Directly on the Floor:
    • Don’t place boxes or items directly on the floor. Use pallets or shelving to avoid moisture damage.
  9. Don’t Forget to Inform the Facility of Changes:
    • Don’t forget to notify the storage facility if your contact information changes.
  10. Don’t Assume the Facility Has Full Security:
    • Don’t assume the storage facility’s security measures are infallible. Always take personal steps to secure your unit, like using a good lock and avoiding storing irreplaceable items.

Be sure that you are doing your research so that you are storing at the storage facility that best fits your needs. Self-storage isn’t a one size fits all.