Whether you are relocating, decluttering your home, or looking for extra storage, self-storage is a convenient and cost-effective option. However, like most things, self-storage units come with rules. Learn the dos and don'ts of self-storage facilities for a pleasant storage experience.
Dos of Self-Storage
Do Pick a Reputable Company
When renting a self-storage unit, you entrust your belongings to a third party. As such, it is vital to find a reliable and reputable company that will care for your items well. Do not choose the first provider that comes your way or the cheapest one available; you may be disappointed with their services. Compare the prices, features, and security of different facilities.
Do Consider What You Intend to Store
What you plan to store will help you make three crucial decisions. First, identify the size of the unit you will need. For instance, you may need a bigger storage for furniture than for garden tools or seasonal clothes. Second, plan time to pack and organize your items before storage.
Third, determine whether you need special storage. For example, if you intend to store valuable items, you may need a climate-controlled unit to prevent damage from extreme temperatures. Also, fragile items may require special storage.
Do Pack Sensibly
Label your boxes to make them easy to store and access. A simple label like Sports Equipment, Kitchen Utensils, Books, or Seasonal Clothes can be helpful if you need to pick something from the unit urgently. Remember to pack and wrap items well to prevent damage.
Store items strategically in the storage unit. Keep your frequently used items at the front of the unit and the ones you may not need so soon at the back. Also, utilize the unit's height to stack items vertically rather than crowding the ground.
Do Consider Insurance
Regardless of why you are renting a storage unit, you want your items to be safe. However, your goods may be vulnerable to pests, theft, water damage, fire, and earthquakes in the facility. Purchasing insurance for your stored goods can be an excellent idea.
Insurance offers peace of mind since you can know that you have extra protection in case the unexpected happens. You can buy insurance from an insurance provider or storage facility.
Don'ts of Self-Storage
Don't Store Prohibited Items
Most self-storage providers prohibit toxic, flammable, and combustible items, including gasoline, acids, fertilizers, perishable foods, weapons, and certain chemicals. Also, plants, animals, and wet items are not allowed. Ensure you consult with your storage provider to identify the things they restrict.
Don't Use Plastic to Wrap Items
While it is tempting to wrap your items in plastic to protect them from dust and debris before storage, don’t do it. Plastic traps moisture, offering a conducive environment for mold to thrive. Rather than plastic, consider using a cloth to protect items like furniture from dust and scratches.
Don't Store Valuables in Your Unit
While most storage facilities have state-of-the-art security systems to keep your belongings safe, accidents can occur. As such, you should avoid storing valuable items at a storage facility — don't store anything you can't afford to lose. Although insurance compensates you financially, it can't replace items with sentimental value, like a family heirloom.
Don't Overlook Your Unit's Security
Whether the facility provides physical keys or codes for your unit, keep them safe and be mindful of the people you share them with. Restrict your unit's access to trustworthy people.
Following the tips above will create a great self-storage experience. Get in touch with Tysons Self Storage for all your self-storage needs in Vienna, Virginia. We are a locally owned company serving individuals, businesses, and government agencies. Let our experience work for you.
