Common Self Storage Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Feb 21, 2024
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We have locations across the United States providing onsite StoreEase Virtual Customer Service™ and 2 Minute Move In® contactless rental.
Common Self Storage Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Choosing self storage can be overwhelming but making the right self storage decisions from the very beginning can help you avoid some costly mistakes in the long run. This helpful guide from StoreEase will help you steer clear of common storage mistakes to make your self storage experience as smooth as possible.
Mistake #1: Selecting the wrong unit size
One of the first things you’ll need to decide is how much room you’ll need to store your items. Storage facilities typically offer units starting around 5x5 all the way up to 10x30 spaces and sometimes even larger, especially if you’re in need of business storage for warehouse purposes.
Selecting a unit that is too small for the amount of things you need to store will leave you feeling cramped and can lead to dangerous situations if you’re stacking boxes to the ceiling where they could topple over. Start on the larger end of what you need and if you find yourself overwhelmed with the space you have, downsize to something smaller. Finding a facility with month-to-month leases will make switching between units a breeze!
If you’re unsure what size unit you should choose, using a size guide is a great way to visualize what the space can fit.
Mistake #2: Improperly packing your items
Whether you’re using self storage for a few months or for the foreseeable future, properly packing your items before placing them in storage is your best defense against damage caused by pests, moisture, and crushed boxes.
Some packing materials to invest in include:
● Cardboard boxes
● Packing paper or bubble wrap
● Furniture covers
● Packing tape
● Tie-Down straps
Not wrapping plates and cups can lead to shattered glass, failing to cover tables can result in scratched surfaces, and placing dirty clothing or linens into boxes uncleaned is the perfect invitation for pests to feed off your items.
Purchasing packing materials can get expensive, however, choosing quality supplies will pay off in the long run when your items come out of storage looking just as great as the day they went in. Some storage facilities even have packing and moving supplies for sale on-site so you won’t need to run to the store if you forget the tape or run out of boxes.
Mistake #3: Stacking items in your unit without a plan
Not only can improperly stacking your items lead to frustration when you can’t find what you’re looking for, but it can pose safety risks as well. Before you begin moving into your storage unit, take time to plan where you’ll place your items. Large appliances, heavy boxes, and mattresses should be placed around the perimeter of your unit and toward the back. If you’re storing things you’ll need to access often, place these toward the door so you won’t have to navigate through your entire unit each time. Make sure to stack heavy boxes on the bottom and light or fragile boxes on the top to protect them from being crushed.
Not only is it beneficial to clearly label each box with its contents, but creating a map of where boxes are located will help you easily find what you’re looking for so you can quickly get in, get out, and get on with your day.
Mistake #4: Missing Out on Features You Need
In addition to selecting a unit that is large enough to fit all of your belongings, it’s equally as important to find a facility that offers the amenities you’re looking for. If you need to access your items late at night or on the weekends, look for a facility with extended hours and if you’re not sure you can make it to the office each month, opt for a company that offers online bill pay or autopay options.
Climate Controlled Storage Units
Some items require a bit more care to store, especially if you plan to leave them in your unit for an extended period of time. If you’re storing temperature-sensitive items such as wooden furniture, art, instruments, vinyl records, documents, or antiques, climate controlled storage will help preserve the integrity of your belongings. Climate controlled units maintain a steady range of temperatures no matter the weather outside, protecting against the warping, cracking, and melting of items that can come along with extreme temperatures.
Boat, Car, and RV Storage
Having a truck, trailer, boat, or RV is a great way to explore the outdoors. However, finding a place to store one is not typically a great experience. Not only do they take up precious garage or driveway space, but many HOAs also have strict rules about how long a boat or RV can be parked outside your home. Finding a storage facility that offers vehicle storage will allow you to securely store your weekend toy either during the off-season or year-round. You’ll choose between a variety of parking storage sizes and may also have the option between covered and uncovered vehicle storage.
Mistake #5: Choosing the wrong storage company
One of the biggest mistakes you can make is choosing the wrong storage company for your needs. Rather than choose the cheapest option or the facility closest to you, make sure the storage facility you rent from offers the amenities you want and has a helpful, knowledgeable team of professionals that can help you every step of the way. Evaluate the pros and cons of each facility you’re considering to find the one that works best for your lifestyle. Whether you rent for a few months or a few years, you deserve self storage that values you and your items from the day you move in until you move out.
Find the self storage solutions you need with StoreEase
With facilities across the country, StoreEase is proud to offer clean, well-lit facilities with quick, contactless rental options. Enjoy top-of-the-industry security features and customer-focused amenities that make your experience storing with us a positive one. Start your self storage journey and find a StoreEase location near you today.