Did you just downsize your home, move or build a new home and need some temporary storage? Maybe you've inherited some extra things that you're just not sure what to do with yet? Or are you looking for your own "man cave" or "she shed" to place your hobby items? Self Storage is perfect for boat and "recreational toy" storage too.
Read below to discover 10 self storage tips and tricks, brought to you by BigFoot Storage, Walker MN
One of the most important storage tips is to make sure your belongings are safe from pests. That’s right, spiders, moths, and rats can all find their way into units and wreak havoc on your stuff.
One way to repel them is by using dryer sheets. Place them in the corners of your unit and inside boxes. The smell will keep unwanted critters away while leaving your belongings smelling fresh and flowery.
Unfortunately, this isn’t a once and done trick. It’s recommended to replace the sheets once a month.
Fun tip...the cheaper the brand, sometimes, the BETTER!
When it comes to renting a storage unit, you’ll want to maximize your space. The smaller storage space you can use, the more money you’ll save.
The best way to fit all your belongings is to utilize vertical space. Stack your boxes on top of each other until they reach the ceiling. If your worried about putting too much weight on bottom boxes, consider using a shelving unit – you’ll still take advantage of all that vertical space, but you’ll be putting less pressure on your boxes.
When you are packing for storage, you may not think to take extra precautions to protect your belongings. After all, they’ll just be sitting in storage.
However, you’ll be stacking boxes on top of each other and moving them around periodically as you dig through your unit. This increases the chance that something will break.
Don’t take any chances. Instead, pack your fragile items with bubble wrap to ensure they’re still intact when you want to use them.
When you move, what’s the first thing you do when you finish packing a box? You label it right? Well, that idea works with storage units too.
One of the best self-storage tips and tricks is to label your boxes...and label them on the side of the box that you'll see facing you when you are viewing your boxes. But don’t just write “living room stuff” and call it a day. Instead, label the main components in each box. This way, you’ll know exactly what’s in every box without having to open them up first.
There are all different types of security measures that facilities take. Make sure the self storage facility you choose has good lighting as well security cameras. Fences and gates can be broken into, so multiple cameras are a must. At Big Foot Storage near Walker MN has several security cameras working 24/7. These cameras have night vision and are both wifi based as well as cellular. Our cameras record all movements, and can be reviewed later on demand. We've not had any problems with theft since installing cameras...but have recorded many different types of wild life!!!
NOTE: We also have a caretaker house on site. This home does NOT act as an "office" however, it is just another added safety measure.
Disassemble all large items that you can. Unfortunately, not all large items can be disassembled for easier storage. Some items, like dressers, hutches, and garbage cans, have to stay intact.
But that doesn’t mean you can't take advantage of what they have to offer. Each of these items has plenty of empty space. Garbage cans, shelves, and drawers can be used to store fragile items to keep them extra safe.
This is one of the most important tips!
Picture moving day... and the day has come where you transfer everything to your storage unit. After a while, you may run out of steam and be tempted to throw it all in there as quickly as possible.
But don’t forget to make an aisle in the rush of things. You’ll want to plan for one aisle going down the center of your unit with the labels on your boxes face the aisle. You’ll be able to see all your belongings without having to jump over boxes or push things aside.
Especially in the northern states, where temperature changes can cause concrete slabs to sweat with season changes, but really anywhere...accumulating rain or snow can cause water build ups at the door. It's hard to predict what areas of the country will get affected by wind and rains next, so look for a self storage facility that offers pallets (or bring your own).
Note: BigFoot Storage MN offers FREE USE OF PALLETS.
Everyone’s worst nightmare is to walk into their storage unit and find everything wet! While the facility takes the proper measures to ensure items stay dry, that doesn’t mean you’re out of the woods.
Dishwashers and refrigerators can both hold water inside them. You’ll want to make sure you drain your dishwasher and defrost your refrigerator before you store them. If you don’t, that water will end up leaking out eventually and can soak your boxes. Also, look for air tight vacuum storage bags and large Zip-Lock style plastic bags to place valuable items in that you wouldn't want to be exposed to humidity etc.
Did you know that most home owners insurance plans offer coverage at no additional cost, for items in a rented storage unit? If you are a renter, check with your insurance agent on "tenants insurance" and make sure your plan includes options for items that are in self storage. Storms and natural disasters can happen. It is highly recommended renters check with their insurance agent and have insurance on items stored. It usually cost little to nothing extra.
Are you thinking about decluttering or downsizing your home? You may find yourself with tons of things that you don’t want to keep at home, but you don’t want to get rid of either. This is the perfect time to get a storage unit. Just follow our top 10 self storage tips and tricks to ensure your storage until is packed efficiently.