With increasing rental and housing prices, it’s becoming more challenging to find space for all our belongings. That’s where self-storages come to the rescue. They provide a convenient, secure, and cost-effective way of storing extra items. Finding the right self storage can be an overwhelming task, but this guide is here to help. This blog post offers tips on how to choose the right storage facility, the best ways to organize your items, and how to maximize the available space.
Choose the Right Size and Type of Storage Unit:
Before selecting a storage unit, it’s important to evaluate your needs. Start by deciding what items you want to store and how much space they’ll require. Choose the appropriate size of the unit based on your estimation. It’s best to rent a slightly larger space than you think you need, to avoid cramming things in.
Next, decide on the type of storage unit you require. Indoor, outdoor, climate-controlled, or drive-up access units are popular choices. Climate-controlled units protect items like electronics, artwork, and documents from freezing or extreme heat. Outdoor units provide easy access to your car, making loading and unloading less taxing. Indoor units offer extra security and protection while drive-up access makes loading and unloading a breeze.
Organize Your Items:
Organizing your belongings is key to maximizing your storage space. Start by labeling all your boxes, so you can easily identify what’s inside. Use shelving units to help categorize and keep boxes off the floor. Make use of awkward spaces, like the tops of cupboards or under beds, by storing suitcases or bags there. If your unit has vertical space, install hooks, rails, and other storage accessories to make use of the extra room.
Load It Correctly:
Correctly loading your storage unit prevents damage to your belongings and maximizes the available space. Place large, heavy items at the bottom, and stack lighter items on top of them. Keep frequently used items towards the front of the unit, making them easily accessible. Leave enough space between boxes and furniture, creating an aisle for accessing items at the back. Dismantle large furniture, store parts together, and wrap with bubble wrap or furniture covers to prevent damage during transportation.
Protect Your Items:
Protecting your items while in storage is essential. Choose an insurance policy that covers all the items you’re storing. Store light fabrics and clothes in vacuum-sealed bags or plastic containers to prevent mold, mildew, and odors. Use quality bubble wrap, blankets, or furniture covers to protect furniture and fragile items. Raise boxes off the floor using pallets, especially if storing during a rainy or snowy season to prevent water damage.
Be an Organized Renter:
Being an organized renter can save you time and money. Create an inventory list of all the items you’re storing and keep it updated. This helps in determining the exact items that are in storage and prevents you from over-buying. Make sure you know the due dates of your rental contract and are paying on time. You wouldn’t want to lose access to your stored items due to late payments.
Conclusion:
In summary, self-storage is an excellent solution for those who need extra space. It’s essential to choose the right size, type, and location to meet your needs. Organizing your items, loading them correctly, protecting them, and being an organized renter maximizes the available space and saves you time and money in the long run. With this guide, you’re well-equipped to make the most out of your self-storage rental. Happy storing!