Self-Storage Tips

Posted on: 3 September 2021

You do not have to move every time you run out of space. If your items congest your current premises, you can rent a storage unit to store the extra items. Storage companies offer a variety of storage options for your individual and business items. However, figuring out the things to store and the appropriate storage unit can be difficult. This article provides a few tips that can help you as you move your items to storage. 

Decluttering and Sorting

What items do you use the most? Before moving your things into storage, you should arrange, label, and pack them based on your priorities. The most important criteria for sorting the things is the frequency with which you use them. For example, the items you use daily should remain on your premises. The goods you need once a month should remain close to the entrance of the storage facility. Finally, you should store the goods you use once or twice a year further into the storage facility. This meticulous sorting saves you time and space and helps you decide on the type of storage facility that can handle your needs. 

Security

Your storage company is responsible for providing security for your goods while they are in storage. Therefore, you should evaluate the storage facility and decide on whether to hire the company or not. If you are vigilant enough, you can distinguish between a secure unit and an insecure one. First, you should ensure the facility has digital surveillance systems. Surveillance cameras act as a deterrence against vandalism or burglary. You should also ensure that the area has sufficient lighting. Sufficiently lit storage areas keep out trespassers since guards can see them from afar. The facility should have additional security measures, such as motion detectors, biometric access locks, and smoke detectors. Ensure the storage company has all safety measures necessary to secure your goods.

Maintenance

The state of a storage facility tells you a lot about the quality of services you are likely to get from the storage company. For example, well-maintained metallic doors and windows are difficult to break. Perimeter walls keep out trespassers and burglars. Similarly, the roof and walls should not have mold, holes, or any other sign of negligence. Neglected walls and roofing make your goods vulnerable to rodent attacks, rain, dust, and sunlight. You should also ensure that the storage facility has adequate staff and resources to maintain and secure your goods. 

Accessibility

If you rarely use the items you keep in storage, you can choose a storage facility that is a few minutes away from your current residence. The facility should not be so far that it becomes an inconvenience to you or your business. You should be able to store and retrieve your goods with ease. Thus, the facility should have enough room for simple things like a pallet jack or oversized items, including trucks and lorries. 

Ensure you declutter and sort your items before storing them. Additionally, ensure that the facility is secure, well-maintained, and accessible. 

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