Self Storage Tips
1. Safeguard Against Pests - Pests such as rodents, moths, and silverfish are a leading problem for self storage renters. Prepare your items for storage by using cedar balls to stop unwanted pests from making your stuff their home. Mothballs are effective, but can make your clothes smell bad, so its best to use
cedar balls instead. A storage unit is not meant to function as a greenhouse, pantry, or refrigerator. Any organic matter stored in the unit will attract unwanted rodents and pests.
Glue traps are a cost effective addition to any storage unit to help protect against bugs and small pests.
2. Insurance - The operator is generally held harmless against claims of theft and/or damage. The Storage Inn is no different. Preparing for self storage starts with securing storage insurance so your items are covered if stolen or damaged. Please contact our customer service representative if you are interested in speaking with our 3rd party insurance partner.
3. Boxes and Bins - Prepare for self storage by using strong boxes in your unit. Even though there are generally plenty of free box options available, boxes designated for moving are always sturdier. It's best to opt-in for sturdier boxes because as you move, they are less likely to break. A better option is to use plastic storage bins for your storage needs. Note, however, that plastic bins can trap moisture, so ensure clothing and other items are completely dry before storing to prevent mold.
4. Locks - Be sure to use a proper lock on your self storage unit.
Disc locks are the recommended lock for self storage units because they are not easily cut with bolt cutters. Other options are
pick-resistant locks with protection against bolt cutters. Small
padlocks are
NOT RECOMMENDED as they are easily removed with bolt cutters or knocked off with a large hammer. Most insurance carriers will require the use of a proper lock.
5. Prepare Appliances - Properly preparing appliances is crucial for self storage. Remember to drain the water out of washing machines, dishwashers, and refrigerators and allow them to completely dry. It is also recommended that you tape the doors shut on all appliances to prevent doors from swinging open during the moving process.
6. Labeling - Labeling boxes and storage bins before placing into storage is good practice. This will make the unpacking process much easier when moving items out of self storage. Small items such as TV remotes should be placed in plastic bags and labeled with the piece of equipment that they belong to. All items containing batteries should have the batteries removed to prevent battery leakage that can ruin the device.
7. Think Cubic Feet - It is important to remember that almost all storage units are 8 ft tall and taller. At Storage Inn we have 9 ft and 10 ft ceiling heights. Use height to your advantage when filling the storage unit with items. Heavier items should rest on the floor with lighter items stored on top. You will be surprised how much you can store in a small space when strategic packing techniques are used. It's also important to plan out how you want to pack the storage unit. Items that you do not intend to use for long period of time should be placed in the back of the unit. Items you wish to have regular access to should be placed closer to the door.
8. Don't Wrap Your Furniture In Plastic - Most moving companies will do this when moving furniture to prevent scratching. For long term storage it is important to allow your items to breath. Furniture wrapped in plastic runs the risk of collecting moisture which can result in mold. If you are wanting to protect your items from dust it is best to cover in blankets that will not trap moisture.
9. Allow For Air Flow - When stacking items in your self storage unit it is best practice to not place items directly against the walls. Keeping items away from the walls promotes air flow through the unit which reduces the opportunity for moisture buildup and possible mold growth as a result.
