At any given time, 9.5% of Americans are using some type of self-storage unit. And the reasons for using container storage units differ significantly. For example, individuals that need extra space after moving usually turn to self-storage. Then you get renters that require storage because they work out of town for long periods of time.
Regardless of what your reason might be, there is no question that self-storage provides a convenient and quick solution. Especially when friends and family are too far away to help with storing your things for you. However, for obvious reasons, renting a storage unit comes with certain rules and regulations. And this is exactly why should take the following tips to heart if you want to make the most of your storage space.
The following tips are going to look at the do’s and don’ts to remember if you plan on using a storage unit.
Pay Close Attention To The Size Of The Unit
Storage units are available in several different sizes. From small containers that can hold small furniture pieces and boxes to bigger units with enough room for a vehicle, the options are open to you and what you can afford. So, do the calculations of how much space you are likely going to need before officially renting a unit.
Use A Nearby Storage Unit
Depending on how often you plan to access the unit, it is recommended to rent one that is close to home or work. If you have to travel long distances every time, it compromises the convenience of having extra storage in the first place.
Pack And Store With Care
Your primary reason for renting a unit is to protect your belongings while they are stored. Hence the reason for packing and storing with the same care you would use when moving to another home or apartment. At the same time, you want to make it easy to retrieve belongings from the unit. This could translate into taking apart certain furniture items, like a dinner table, and wrapping the pieces to prevent damage.
List The Items You Store
Another good idea is to make a list of what you store and where you store it inside the unit. Even taking some photos of where you store items can help, seeing as you do not want to go through every box to find what you are looking for. If you want to be extra sure you know where everything is, draw a labelled map which you keep safe.
Consider A Climate Controlled Unit
As you already know, some of your belongings are more vulnerable to elements like extreme temperature and humidity. But this is what climate-controlled units are for. In addition to keeping your belongings safe, climate-controlled units will prevent elements like temperature and humidity from damaging your stored items over long periods.
Take Note Of What You Are Allowed To Store
It goes without saying that you can store a wide variety of belongings inside a unit. But certain items will not be permitted. These items include things like animals (dead or alive), plants, flammable liquids like fuel or propane, weapons or ammunition, as well as paints.
Restrict Access To The Unit
Naturally, you do not want just anyone to have access to your storage unit. Thus, only give your keys to a person you really trust if you need them to get something from the unit for you or themselves.
Remember To Lock Up
This sounds like a fairly obvious tip, but make it a priority to check the lock twice. In some cases, people do not lock the unit because they feel they are wasting time. The truth is you make your belongings vulnerable to getting stolen, which pretty much negates your reason for using a unit in the first place.
With these tips in mind, you should not have a problem making the most of your storage unit. And just think about the convenience if everything is done with some proper planning.