Choosing the Right Self Storage Facility

Choosing a storage facility is easy.  Choosing the right storage facility is a bit more complicated.  There are so many good facilities available that you need a system to help narrow down the competition. The demand for storage is substantial, and storage providers are working hard to meet this demand.

There are many life transitions that prompt the need for extra storage space:  moving, remodeling, marriage, downsizing, and new business, to name a few. Typically, you don’t start thinking about additional storage until it becomes essential.  You then make the mistake of visiting or calling the most convenient location without giving much thought to services and amenities.  The following tips and suggestions will help you to organize your ideas, prioritize your needs, and find storage that is the best fit for you.

  1. Be Specific About Your Needs

Think about what you’re storing and how long you plan to store these items.  With so many available options, it should be easy to find what you need if you understand exactly what your needs are.

  • Make an inventory list of all the items you plan to store.
  • Identify the items that you may need to access while they are in storage.
  • Measure and estimate the collective packing size of the items you plan to store.
  • Account for extra space to provide ventilation and ease of access.

When storing items for short periods of time, it’s fine to pack everything close together. If you’re storing for a longer time, provide extra space for ventilation and for an aisle so that you can access belongings that you may need regularly.  Think about arranging for easy access.

  1. Decide Whether You Need a Climate-Controlled Unit

Climate-controlled spaces keep the temperature and humidity within a specific range.  This can be dependent on the climate in which you’re storing your items.  For example, dry climates could cause wood to crack and split and humid climates can cause mold and mildew.  Take the time to research, based on the value of your belongings and the cost of the unit.  Climate-controlled units can be more expensive but worth the cost over time.

  1. Think About Location

How many times will you need to visit your storage facility?  If you’re going to be needing regular access, a convenient location is important. However, be aware that a facility located in the heart of the city will be more expensive that one outside of town. If you don’t need quick access to your items, a facility farther from the city will be less costly.

  1. Consider Unit Size Options

Self-storage units are available in a wide range of sizes and configurations.  Naturally, larger units cost more per month, so it’s a smart to have an overall idea of how much space you’ll need.  You don’t want to pay for extra, unused space unless you’re planning to store more items over time.  Another factor to consider is the design of the space.  Some units are narrow but have a lot of vertical space; others are wider with lower ceilings. In some cases, one layout is preferable.

  1. Storage Facility Cost Can Vary Considerably

Because many storage facilities are independently owned, business owners have the option of setting their own prices.  It’s always smart to shop around because you may be able to find a better deal by making a few phone calls. Storage companies frequently offer promotions.  If your preferred facility isn’t offering any deals, it pays to ask. You can also mention a competitor’s promotion; they may be willing to match the deal.

  1. Verify Security

Cost, however, should not be your only consideration.  You need a reputable company with state-of-the-art security, a variety of customer amenities, and a range of unit sizes that will be a good fit for your needs. Look for video surveillance, perimeter fencing, security locks, and electronic access. You’ll also want a knowledgeable management team that is willing to provide you with answers to your questions and a tour of the property.

  1. Check Insurance

If you have homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, call your agent to verify that your stored belongings are covered under your present policy.  You may find that your facility must provide specific security elements for your items to be covered.  If your policy does not cover stored items, you should be able to purchase insurance from your preferred storage company.

Whatever you do, choose carefully.  It’s worth the time and effort to find the facility that is the best option for your needs.  Once you’ve moved your belongings into a unit, it’s highly unlikely that you will want to switch facilities.

Use climate controlled storage units to protect your furniture

Knowing how to correctly store furniture in a storage unit can ensure that you keep your furniture for generations.  It does take a bit of work to store furniture properly, but the extra effort will be more than worth it.

Whether they are priceless antiques or inexpensive chairs that will eventually be moved to your child’s dorm room, you will want to protect every piece.

Why Choose Climate Controlled Furniture Storage?

If you’re going through a life transition and need to store furniture, give serious thought to using climate-controlled storage. Protection from the elements is paramount, and climate control will ensure that your pieces stay safe from humidity and fluctuating temperatures.  Wood furniture, antiques, fabrics, and leather will do best in a climate-controlled of unit.

The following common-sense tips will help you preserve and store your furniture, regardless of material.

  1. Be Sure that Everything is Clean and Dry
    • For wood or plastic furniture, use a mild soap and water.  For your more valuable wood pieces, especially antiques, use a wood cleaner like Murphy’s Oil Soap to protect the finish.  Dry thoroughly.
    • Clean fabric pieces with fabric or upholstery cleaner.  Be sure that all items are dry prior to wrapping and packing.
    • Polish any metal areas with metal cleaner and a polishing cloth to remove existing oxidation and delay the buildup of tarnish.
    • Do not leave old or dirty items in drawers.  This will significantly cut down on the chances of dust or mold in your storage space.
  2. Disassemble Anything that You Can
    • To reduce the likelihood of breakage during moving and storage, take apart as much furniture as you can.  This may not be possible with some of the larger pieces, but desks, bookshelves, tables, and chairs should be simple to take apart.
    • Place all screws, bolts, and Allen wrenches in labeled baggies, taped inside of the piece to which they belong.
    • Remember to tape on the inside and not on a finished surface, as tape can leave marks or residue on fine finishes.
  3. Carefully Wrap Furniture
    • If for some reason you are unable to find a climate-controlled space in your area, be sure to cover the floor with plastic sheeting to prevent moisture from seeping into your furniture.  If you’re in a climate-controlled space, humidity will not be an issue.
    • In any event, never leave furniture in your space uncovered.  Wrap furniture so that it can breathe. Sheets, furniture blankets, or fabric drop cloths should be draped loosely over your furniture to protect your pieces from dust.  Avoid plastic covers. Even in a climate-controlled unit, they can cause a build up of condensation and eventual swelling and damage to finishes.
  4. Take Extra Precautions with Glass
    • Begin by wrapping glass tabletops and mirrors with packing paper. Don’t stick tape directly on glass as it will leave a sticky residue that will be difficult to clean later.
    • After these pieces are securely wrapped in paper, cover with plenty of bubble wrap and enclose in a long, wide, flat box for an extra layer of security.  Picture and TV boxes are great for this.
  5. Raise Furniture Off the Floor
    • Avoid putting furniture directly on the floor, especially valuable antiques and delicate upholstery.
    • Add an extra layer of protection against flood damage by using pallets or cinder blocks.
  6. Don’t Overcrowd
    • The more you try to cram into a space, the greater your chances of breaking, bending, or otherwise damaging your items.
    • After you’ve chosen a reputable, secure facility to store your furniture, ask a staff member to help you choose an appropriate size unit.  Take a few moments to organize your unit for ease of access.
    • Store furniture logically, starting with the largest pieces in the back and finishing with the small pieces and boxes in the front.
    • Allow adequate access to the back and sides of your unit.  Keep your space clean and decluttered.

Preparing and storing furniture may be time consuming but does not have to be complicated.  Some extra time now, will save a lot of hassle later.

More on climate-controlled storage coming soon!

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