If you own a lot of things, self-storage may be the way to go. It can hold things you’re saving for the future or things that you only use occasionally. To help you navigate using a storage unit, we’ve put together a few tips to help you get the most out of it. Visit will-stor.com if you are looking for self-storage.
Decide on a unit
Choose a reputable company. After all, they will be safeguarding your belongings, so do your research by reading reviews. It’s more important to use a reliable storage company rather than the cheapest one you can find. Investigate moving companies with storage options. You could also ask friends and family which company they used and what their experience was.
Start looking early. Begin the search for a storage unit several weeks before you plan to fill it. That way, you can get the size of the unit you want at a price you can afford. You can also most likely get one in an area that is convenient for filing and retrieving items you may need as time goes on.
Make a list of what you need to store. Knowing what and how much stuff you will be storing helps you choose a unit that is the right size. You won’t be facing the decision to forego putting something in storage because the unit is too small. Also, you won’t be paying for a larger unit than you need for your belongings.
Pack a Unit
Label the boxes. We always think that we’ll remember what box the items are in, but unfortunately, that’s seldom the case. The best thing to do is to label every box by room, keeping every room in their boxes.
Leave Valuables out of storage. To be on the safe side, do not put anything valuable in your storage unit. Although the chances are that everything will be fine, there is always the risk that some items will be damaged, lost, or stolen.
Load unit strategically. Place items you seldom use near the back of the unit and items that you know you will use near the front. Take advantage of vertical space as well as horizontal.
Protect items. To prevent damage, mold, or mildew, do not use plastic to cover furniture. Wrap fragile items in packing paper and put all small items in boxes.
Get insurance. Add a rider to your renter’s or homeowner’s insurance to cover personal property in your storage unit.
No perishable items. Leave out food, plants, or other items that will rot, mold, or attract rodents.
General Advice
Keep your access code and key to yourself. If you wouldn’t trust someone with the key to your home or garage, don’t trust them with access to your storage unit.
Get a strong lock. Spend the money to get a strong, secure lock that is hard to pick or cut off. Give yourself peace of mind and don’t buy the cheapest lock you can find.
Renting and filling a storage unit doesn’t have to be a big deal. Use some common sense and plan ahead.
