Whether you’re moving or just need more space in your home, renting a storage unit can be a great solution. But there are some things that you should know before you sign on the dotted line.
For example, it’s important to pack your items properly. Use cardboard boxes and plastic bins, and consider using moving blankets to protect your breakable items.
Get Organized
One of the most important things you can do when moving into a storage unit is to get organized. This will make it much easier to find items when you need them. Make a detailed inventory list and use labels to identify the contents of each box. Be specific when labeling boxes, such as “kitchen items” or “seasonal clothing.”
If you have furniture to store, disassembling it can help save space. For example, you can wrap headboards and table legs in old sheets or blankets to protect them from wear and tear. This will also open up more floor space for storage boxes.
Finally, never use your storage unit as a studio or workspace. This is against fire safety regulations and may violate local zoning laws or the terms of your rental agreement. Plus, it’s just plain illegal!
Plan Ahead
Before you start packing your storage unit, make an inventory of everything you plan to put inside. This will help you determine what size unit you need and ensure that nothing is forgotten or misplaced.
It’s also a good idea to purchase a step stool, as you’ll need to reach some items that are stored up high. It’s important to pack strategically, too — store things you might need more frequently toward the front of the unit and larger items in the back. Always leave a pathway from the front to the back, as well.
Finally, be sure to clear out any perishables or plants before storing them. These can create bad odors, attract bugs and rodents, and violate storage unit rental agreements. You may even face a penalty or even lose your belongings if you do this.
Don’t Over-Pack
When it comes to packing your storage unit, less is definitely more. It’s also important to categorize items as you pack them so you can easily find them when you need them again. Using markers or stickers to create descriptive labels is helpful. For example, “kitchen silverware” or “Christmas tree ornaments.”
If you’re storing furniture, consider disassembling pieces to save space and ensure they’re protected from moisture. You can also wrap items like mirrors and tables in protective plastic to prevent damage.
Clean all of your belongings before putting them into storage, including washing and drying clothes, cleaning mattresses, vacuuming upholstery and wiping down appliances. This will help prevent the buildup of mildew, which could ruin your belongings. Also, make sure you store items that you use frequently towards the front of your unit so you can access them easily.
Don’t Forget About the Locks
When moving into a storage unit, it is important to not forget about the locks. It is extremely easy to lose a padlock key, and without it, you can no longer access your items in storage. For this reason, it is always a good idea to purchase a disc lock, which has a closed shackle that makes it harder for thieves to cut with bolt cutters.
Also, be sure to bring a step stool in case you need to get to items that are stored up high. Finally, remember that you are renting space from a human being, and sometimes things happen that affect occupancy rates at the facility. It is also not safe or legal to live in a storage unit, so be sure not to do this! It could result in eviction and other legal issues.
Make Sure Your Items Are Safe
It’s important to take all the necessary precautions to protect your items when moving into a storage unit. This includes protecting fragile items with bubble wrap and stuffing any gaps in the boxes with tissue paper, newspaper or packing peanuts. It’s also a good idea to clean all of your items before moving them into storage so that they are free from dust, dirt and grime.
For large items, such as beds and dining tables, it’s a good idea to disassemble them before placing them into storage. This will help to save space and can also protect the items from damage.
Finally, make sure to label all of your boxes clearly. This will help you to keep track of what’s inside and will save you time when it comes to finding an item in the future.
Make the Most of Your Space
A storage unit doesn’t have to be a cluttered mess of trash bags and old boxes. There are many ways to maximize space and make navigating your belongings easier. One way is to label your boxes and create a master list that catalogs box contents. This will allow you to find items quickly and save on long-term storage costs.
Another tip is to utilize height by stacking items when possible. This will save floor space and prevent items from being damaged by moisture or mildew. It is also important to keep in mind that most storage units are outside, so covering the floors of your unit can help protect belongings from extreme temperatures and humidity.
Disassembling furniture can also open up more floor space for storage and allow you to stack items more efficiently. It is also important to leave an aisle so you can move around your belongings easily.
Ask Questions
Renting a storage unit can be confusing. It can help to ask a few questions before moving into a storage unit. For one thing, it’s important to compare the facility’s gate and office hours. Many facilities only post their gate hours, which can be misleading if you need to get in touch with someone after-hours. You also want to make sure that the storage company offers specials for new tenants, which can save you money and time. Some storage companies offer the first month of renting a unit free or for just $1, which can be a great deal! Some even offer moving specials.
Take Advantage of Special Offers
Not everyone has a big garage or basement at their disposal to store all of their belongings. In this case, storage units are very affordable options for storing items that don’t always get much use.
For instance, some people choose to store seasonal items like skis or deck chairs. This way, they don’t clog up the garage or eat up valuable space in the backyard.
Others use a storage unit as an interim solution for moving into a new home. This is common for couples who first start living together or families that are relocating after a loved one’s death. Unlike housing contracts, storage units tend to be on a monthly basis and can be cancelled with little notice. This flexibility makes them a smart choice for many circumstances. Ask about special offers, such as the first month free, when looking for a facility.
Be Flexible
Many storage companies have perks that are designed to make the storage experience easier. For example, some have lounge areas where you can drink coffee, work from a laptop or even use a free truck rental. This can be helpful when trying to balance convenience with price when selecting a storage facility. not to mention stuff like self-storage at SureStore.
Other perks include security-controlled access and well-lit facilities. This can help ensure that only those who are supposed to be there are allowed inside. Additionally, some companies offer climate-controlled units that can protect delicate items from extreme temperatures and humidity.
Although it may be tempting to use your storage unit as an office, it’s important to remember that living and working in a storage space is against the lease agreement. It’s also illegal in most states. So, be sure to follow these tips when moving into your first storage unit!
Be Prepared
Whether you need a temporary solution while moving or a permanent storage space for belongings that are too big to fit in your new home, renting a storage unit can be a great option. But, before haphazardly throwing everything into the unit, it’s important to take some time to prepare your belongings for storage.
For starters, it’s important to create an inventory of all the items you plan to store. This will help you determine the size unit you need and keep things organized once they’re in the storage unit.
It’s also a good idea to label every box that contains something specific. This will make it easier to find things when you need them again. Additionally, be sure to place items you’ll use most often towards the front of the storage unit, and leave an aisle in case you need to access them again in the future.