Placing Items in Self Storage

Self-storage units are a convenient way for anyone who is moving to a smaller dwelling and doesn't have enough room to store certain items. Storage units also can help anyone who is looking to declutter an area but can't yet part with items.

When choosing a facility, consider the cost of the unit, any available security measures and whether access to the unit is limited. Self-storage facilities may offer security lighting, a perimeter fence to exclude intruders, and secure, gated access requiring a key or password for entry.

Consider how and when items are used when placing them into the storage unit. Not all items will remain in storage for the full length of the unit’s rental. You may need to access certain items shortly after a move, including paperwork or family photos for a special occasion. Store items least likely to be needed toward the back of the unit and at the bottom of piles. Keep anything you might need toward the front and center of the unit. This helps maintain a convenient pathway if anything needs to be moved or removed.

Keep photos and paper items off the floor. While most units will not experience flooding, heavy rains may occur and concrete floors can draw moisture. Store papers and photos in waterproof containers or place these boxes out of direct contact with the floor. Follow the same rules for fabric and wood items as these can be damaged by moisture.

Be sure to include cushioning materials between items that can easily scratch. Although damage can occur in transit, it also can occur in storage while sorting, adding or removing items. Old blankets or linens, unused boxes and sheets of packing material can be used to cover and protect delicate surfaces. Consider leaving a gap between these surfaces and other stored items as an added precaution.

Place baits for bugs and mice inside the storage unit. While your unit may not be infested, boxes in a neighboring compartment may harbor little visitors. Even if the doors seal well, raised units offer a large opening for rodents to enter. Insects can crawl through the smallest of crevices. A few scattered baits are inexpensive and help ensure that pests will be less likely to breed or do extensive damage.

Resources and References:

Extra Space Storage: Security Options for Storage
http://selfstorage.extraspace.com/storage-tips/security-options-for-storage.aspx

Security Self Storage: Facility Features
http://www.securityself-storage.com/features

USStorageSearch.com: Home
http://www.usstoragesearch.com/

Concrete Network: What Problems Does Moisture Create?
http://www.concretenetwork.com/vapor-barriers/moisture.html

Arkansas Self Storage Association
http://www.arssa.org/

Extra Space Storage: Size Calculator
http://selfstorage.extraspace.com/Storage/UnitSize.aspx