STORAGE TIPS
Maximize your storage space and keep your items in great condition with these expert tips. Whether you're storing household goods, vehicles, or seasonal items, our storage tips will help you make the most of your unit and ensure everything stays safe and organized.
1. Use Proper Packing Materials
Boxes: Use sturdy boxes to store smaller items. Label each box clearly with its contents and the room it belongs to. Try to pack heavier items at the bottom and lighter items on top.
Bubble Wrap & Packing Peanuts: Protect fragile items by wrapping them in bubble wrap or packing peanuts. This will minimize the risk of breakage.
Furniture Covers: For furniture, use protective covers to avoid dust buildup and protect them from scratches and stains.
Plastic Bins: Clear plastic bins are ideal for storing clothing, shoes, or small items. They stack neatly and allow for easy visibility of contents.
2. Create an Organized Layout
Map Your Unit: Plan how you want to arrange your items before you begin packing them into your storage unit. Ensure that you leave an aisle for easy access to items you might need to retrieve later.
Store Seasonal Items in the Back: Place items you won’t need until later, like holiday decorations or off-season clothing, toward the back of the unit.
Keep Frequently Used Items Accessible: Store items you may need to access regularly near the front of your unit for convenience.
Use Shelving: If you have a lot of smaller items, consider using shelves to make better use of vertical space.
3. Protect Your Items
Climate-Controlled Units: If you are storing sensitive items such as electronics, documents, or artwork, consider using a climate-controlled unit to protect them from temperature extremes and humidity.
Pallets for Elevation: Elevate boxes and furniture off the floor using pallets or wooden boards. This prevents items from getting damaged by moisture and helps with air circulation.
Cover Your Furniture: Use furniture covers or sheets to protect your sofas, chairs, and mattresses from dust and dirt.
4. Disassemble Large Items
Break Down Furniture: If possible, disassemble larger furniture like tables, bed frames, and shelving units. This will create more space and help prevent damage during storage.
Remove Bulky Parts: Take off any removable parts (e.g., legs of tables, shelves from bookcases) to make the items more compact and easier to store.
5. Keep an Inventory
Detailed List: Keep a list of what you're storing. This will help you quickly find what you need when you access your unit. You can even take photos for easier identification.
Label Everything: Label boxes and bins clearly with both the contents and the room from which the items came. It’ll make retrieval much easier.
6. Make the Most of Vertical Space
Stack Boxes and Bins: Stack lighter boxes and bins on top of heavier ones. Be sure not to stack too high to avoid the risk of items falling and getting damaged.
Use Hooks for Hanging Items: If your unit allows, use hooks or pegs to hang bicycles, tools, or other items that can be hung up to save space on the floor.
7. Safety First
Lock Your Unit Properly: Always use a sturdy lock for your storage unit. A high-quality lock, such as a disc lock, provides enhanced security and prevents unauthorized access.
Don't Store Hazardous Materials: Avoid storing perishable items, chemicals, or anything flammable or dangerous. This will not only keep your items safe but also ensure the safety of other tenants.
8. Take Advantage of Free Services
Free Moving Supplies: Many storage facilities offer free moving carts or dollies to help you load and unload items. Take advantage of these resources to make the process easier.
Online Bill Pay: Use your facility’s online bill pay options to avoid late fees and keep everything organized without the hassle of remembering to visit the office.
9. Seasonal Maintenance Tips for Vehicles
Clean and Protect Your Vehicle: Before storing a vehicle for the season, thoroughly clean it inside and out. Waxing the exterior helps protect the paint and finish. For boats and RVs, ensure all vents and drains are clear to avoid mildew buildup.
Cover Your Vehicle: Use a weatherproof cover to protect your vehicle from dust, dirt, and potential scratches.
Check Fluid Levels: For vehicles stored long-term, check and top off fluids, and consider using fuel stabilizers to preserve fuel.
By following these storage tips, you can ensure that your items remain in excellent condition and that your storage unit remains organized. If you need help or advice, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team for assistance.
Ready to Store?
Reserve your unit today and experience a convenient, secure, and organized storage solution.