If you are a first-time renter, you probably have many questions about self-storage and where you need to start to find the perfect storage unit for you. Reading this article will give you some good self-storage tips. However, before we go into the tips discussed below, you should understand exactly what self-storage is. In this industry, self-storage (a shortened term for, and sometimes referred to as, temporary storage facility or storage unit) is a niche market in which storage units are rented, typically on a month-to-month basis.
Storage Rental Tips
Find the Best Storage Facility
Finding a storage facility is the first thing you need to do, so do your research. There are a few things that you should look for in a storage facility.
Well Lit – If a storage facility isn’t properly lit, it can get dark, making it difficult for you to find items in your storage unit.
Security Features – As far as protecting your items is concerned, make sure that the storage facility has certain security features such as a fully fenced facility, a locked gate, and video surveillance.
Storage Deals – One thing you should consider is storage unit deals since you can sometimes find good prices.
Choosing the Right Unit Size
When picking a storage unit size, you need to think of the amount of stuff you need to store. There are various size storage units available, and there is no point in getting a larger unit if you aren’t going to fill it and you don’t want to stress that you won’t have enough storage by renting a unit that is too small.
Creating a list of things you need to store can help you get a good estimate of what you need to store. Some self-storage facilities even offer tools like size guides or space estimators to help you find that perfect size.
Heated or Non-Heated Storage
When it comes to types of storage, there are all kinds. Two, in particular, are heated storage or non-heated storage. Are there certain items that you would be worried about being too cold in the winter months? Then heated storage is the type of storage unit you would be looking for, but if you aren’t worried about the cold, then a normal non-heated unit could be an option.
Packing and Organizing Storage Unit Tips
Label Your Boxes – It would be helpful if you also labelled the storage boxes. This will help you identify which box goes where so that you can locate it quickly when you need it. Clearly label the contents of the box if you’re using a common one. However, if you are using individual boxes, simply write what the contents are so that you know what to expect when opening the box.
Wrap Certain Items – If you store breakable items, it is best to wrap something around them. Some examples would be newspapers for dishes or an old blanket for a mirror.
Items You Shouldn’t Store – Some items should not be stored. One of them being precious items. If it’s something that you couldn’t bear losing, then it’s better to be on the safe side and not store it in a unit. Another thing you should avoid storing is perishable items; this is because they can attract animals and even damage items when they go bad.
Pack Things Away with a Purpose – When it comes to packing things away in your storage unit, finally, don’t just throw things in there. Make a plan of where certain items will be stored, so you know exactly where everything is. It is also beneficial to leave an aisle down the middle to get to your items more easily.
All our tips on renting your first storage unit are now in your hands. Contact us through our online form or give us a call (705) 433-3131 if you’re ready to rent one today.