6 Tips to get the most out of your Self-Storage Unit
Maybe you’re considering a storage unit as a way to hold onto your couch and tables in preparation for an upcoming move, or you want to put your birdbath or garden decor someplace warm for the winter. Maybe you’ve just got too much stuff. Whatever your reason is, we offer climate-controlled storage space to help you protect your possessions. If this is your first time using a storage unit here are some tips to help you prepare.
Let nothing touch the ground
Much like a basement, storage units are designed to stay dry but accidents happen and it’s better to be prepared for the worst case scenario. While most floors are sloped to keep water from pooling within the units, rare accidents are possible, such as something spilling in the next unit over. Get your hands on some wooden shipping pallets or blocks so your possessions will remain above the floor.
Bring a hardy lock
Just like in the changing room at the gym, your storage unit will need a lock that you control. Make sure it has a short elbow so someone, such as another storage unit renter, can’t simply snip it off with a pair of bolt cutters. (At Ayer Moving and Storage, we supply the lock for you.)
Bring packing materials
A storage unit isn’t just another room in your house where you can move objects, so don’t treat it like one. You need to prepare by bringing packing materials like thick sheets of flexible plastic, cardboard boxes and bubble wrap to make sure everything is protected. Be careful with wrapping things in old newspapers as the ink can come off.
Disassemble and stack high
The legs will come off most tables, so save space by breaking items down into easy-to-store segments. You can get the most out of your unit if you place items in safe, secure stacks, so bring some plywood or boards to place between layers of items to help make sure everything stays flat and firm.
Get organized
Leave an empty channel down the center of the storage unit so you can walk through the middle and access items without juggling too many objects. If items are in cardboard boxes, label them, especially if you plan to keep items in the storage unit for more than a few months. If you have something that could possibly leak fluids, like oil from a lawn mower, make sure you put them away or below items like clothing, furniture and sheets.
Check your insurance
Some homeowners’ insurance policies will cover items in a storage unit. Others won’t, so check your policy to see if you should purchase any insurance for your unit. You can also modify your homeowners’ insurance policy, or you can try to purchase one through the storage unit.