Self Storage

What should I look for in a self storage facility?

Self storage may be a great thing to consider if you are moving to a small apartment or relocating temporarily and you have nowhere to put items that you either can't or don't want to get rid of. There are a host of self storage facilities out there; here are some things to look into when trying to decide which is right for you:

• Is there a good security system? You'll want to be sure your belongings are well protected.
• Is it located conveniently? An inexpensive storage space may not be worth it if you can't get to it easily. Also, don't forget the cost of gas to get there.
• Can I get to my things when I want to? Think about what your needs are in terms of access and be sure to check the hours of the facility to be sure they work for you.
• Is it climate controlled? This may not be an issue, depending on what you are storing, but if the items can't take extremes in temperature, you'll want a climate controlled unit.
• Make sure the place is clean and dry.
• Ask what they do to make sure that pests don't get into your things.

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What are some packing tips for self storage units?

Learning how to pack self storage units efficiently and economically can pay off. Here are some great tips that will help keep your unit organized and prevent things from becoming damaged while they are put away:

• Be careful of anything that can cause mold or mildew. Don't pack anything that is damp, wet, or in sealed plastic bags.
• Make sure to map out a space that you can use for access prior to filling the unit. You'll need to be able to get in and out easily.
• Mark all boxes clearly on the outside and make sure that you can see the contents when packed in.
• Make sure you store heavy items on the bottom and fragile items up top.
• Use tape to prevent dust from getting into boxes.
• Seriously think about whether you want to store anything with a lot of sentimental value or things that can't be replaced.
• Keep an inventory of items and look into getting the unit insured.
• Arrange the biggest items in the space before packing anything else.
• Be sure to keep items you will need to access on a regular basis at the front of the unit so that you can get to it easily.

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