Self Storage Tips

Q: What is self storage?
A: A self storage unit, also known as mini storage, public storage or mini warehouse, refers to a lockable unit in which people can store their goods.  Self storage allows someone who is relocating, selling a home, or simply looking for more space, a place to store their belongings.  Businesses frequently use self storage to store inventory or infrequently accessed files rather than having to lease expensive commercial space.  Unlike portable, or door-to-door storage, self storage facilities allow customers to retain a key to the unit so that they can access their goods when they want.

Q: How should I prepare to use self storage?

• Visit the facility that you want to store your items. Take a list of what you are going to be storing so that the manager can help you determine the correct size for your needs.
• Be sure to read the lease before signing it. Make sure you are aware of company policies on moving out, paying the rent and other important information.
• Gather all the packing supplies you will need. Such as boxes, tape, bubble wrap, marking pens, damp rid, rope, and pallets.
• If you are using a moving company, find out what size truck they will be using. This is valuable in determining if your unit will be accessible to that truck. Most moving companies charge more the farther they have to carry your things.
• Schedule your mover well in advance unless you are moving the goods yourself. Bridge Storage offers a free loaner truck to help you move in.

Q: How do I best use the storage space?

• Use pallets, 2 x 4's, plywood, any thing that will keep your items off the floor of the unit. This allows air to circulate and prevents buildup of humidity.
• Utilize all the space in your unit. Make a plan as to how you are going to arrange your items. A good plan will save you the time of having to rearrange your unit. Leave an aisle in the center of your self storage unit so that you have a walk way to the back.
• Use freestanding shelves to help organize your unit.
• Label the boxes on all sides and keep a list for easy reference. This will save you time if you have to look for something in particular. When packing boxes fill them without making them too heavy to lift. Always put the heavier boxes on the bottom and the lighter ones on top of the heavier ones. This will prevent boxes from being crushed. Keep boxes off the floor.
• Be sure to store frequently used items at the front of the unit to avoid having to search for them.
• To protect your items cover them with moving pads, sheets, or light blankets.
• Be sure to check your unit frequently to spot any humidity or deterioration before you items are unrecoverable.
• Disassemble items such as tables, bed frames, etc. This will save space. Wrap and label all pieces to make it easier when you have to reassemble them. Put all hardware in bags and mark the bags accordingly.
• When you disassemble electronics, such as computers, stereos, things that have numerous cords, place small colored stickers on the cord and the same color sticker where the cord goes. This will save you the hassle of trying to figure out what goes where when it comes time to reassemble your electronics. If possible, use the original boxes to store your electronics and other items.
• Make sure that all appliances are clean and dry before storing them. Leave doors slightly ajar to prevent mildew.
• If it is possible, store couches on end. Stack chairs seat to seat. Use the inside of appliances and drawers to store smaller items. When stacking furniture use paper pads in between the items to avoid scratching.
• Store mirrors and paintings on end, not flat.
• To prevent rusting rub a small amount of machine oil on metal tools, bicycles, and steel equipment. Drain and clean all debris from all equipment before you store it.
• When wrapping collectibles or anything breakable, label it as soon as you wrap it. This should avoid mistaking it for junk. Use bubble wrap or un printed paper to wrap fragile items. Group similar items together and mark the boxes accordingly.
• Clothing and draperies should be stored in wardrobe boxes, on hangers, to retain their original shapes.
• Purchase insurance. If your belongings are worth storing, they are worth insuring.
• Plastic containers are great for storing your items. They have tight fitting lids and stack easily. Keep the more valuable items in the rear of the unit. This will prevent others from seeing them when you are in your unit.
• Keep out-of-season clothes accessible, you may have your belongings in storage longer than anticipated.
• Be aware of your surroundings when you are in your unit. If you see a potential problem or anything suspicious alert the manager.

What should I not do?

• Do not seal your belongings. Let air circulate.
• Do not store any food items. It will discourage unwanted pests.
• Do not pack your boxes so that they are too heavy to carry. Especially when you are packing books.
• Do not give out your password, gate code or any information to any one that is not listed as having "Access".
• Do not use printed newspaper. The ink may smudge and get on your items.
• Do not forget to clean appliances before you store them.
• Do not store any toxins or flammables. Such as paint, oil, or gasoline.