If you are thinking about renting a storage facility, here is a list of dos and don’ts that will help you extract the maximum utility and benefit from a storage unit.
List of dos
- Get a unit close to your property
You may have to store things that you will need to retrieve on brief notice, so it is better to find a storage unit close to your residential or commercial property. It will save you time and money spent on any back-and-forth travel.
- Always label your boxes
Labeling may feel like a laborious task, but it comes in handy when you have to find something amid 50 boxes. Even though it takes time to label your boxes properly, it makes locating things easier.
- Stack up smartly
Stack your things smartly to save space and avoid any potential damage. Try using suitable spaces in your furniture such as dressers and suitcases to store minor items. Also, put heavier boxes at the back or bottom of the pile for stability.
- Place frequently needed stuff at the front
If you plan to use some belongings frequently, put them at the front, as it will save you the hassle of going through everything each time you want something.
- Get a storage unit insurance
Even if your facility is well protected and observes adequate security measures, misfortunes like natural disasters and fire may occur, leading to property loss. Therefore, it is prudent to opt for additional storage insurance to cover the damage in such cases.
- Make pathways to access stuff at the back
Avoid filling up the storage unit entirely. Leave out some space as a designated pathway, so you can check on and get things at the rear without having to pull everything out.
List of don’ts
- Don’t store valuable items in a storage unit
No matter how safe the facility is, there is always a risk of theft or damage from disasters. So we recommend that you do not keep valuable things or items with sentimental value inside a storage facility.
- Don’t use plastic wraps or low-quality cardboard boxes
Using plastic wraps may seem like a good idea to protect your items against damage, but they trap moisture, which can damage fragile items such as furniture, artwork, vinyl records, etc. Moisture also promotes the growth of mold, which can ruin your belongings.
- Don’t climb on top of boxes
No matter how sturdy the boxes look, don’t climb to reach other boxes; it can damage the items inside. Also, avoid pulling out boxes from the middle of the stack as it can lead to a collapse.
- Don’t store perishable or inflammable items
Perishable items such as fresh fruits, vegetables, and living plants decompose quickly and cause a microbial infestation that can spread to other things in the unit. Inflammable things such as kerosene and petrol pose a significant threat of causing a fire by accident. Avoid storing these inside the facility.
About Xtra Storage Companies
Xtra Storage Companies is your one-stop destination for storage in the Miami region. We offer everything you would want in a storage unit at affordable prices. You can fill our online contact form to know more.