Renting storage units is a great method to free up space in one’s house, protect valuable items, or inventory for business. Whether it is a standard unit or container storage, preparation and planning are crucial for effective use of space and protection of belongings and items. However, most individuals who lease storage units make common errors that may result in wasted space, destroyed items, or unexpected expenses.
To ensure that you enjoy your own storage solution, below are five common mistakes to avoid when storing items in a storage unit.
Choosing the Wrong Size Storage Unit
One of the biggest mistakes people make when renting storage units is getting an improper size estimate. When the storage area is not big enough, you probably will find it difficult to get everything stored in it, leading to overcrowding and possible harm to your items. With the larger one, you could be throwing your hard-earned money renting space that you do not need.
How to Avoid:
Take stock of items you plan to keep, and take measurements of the larger pieces.
Utilise an online calculator or call the facility for advice on the size you will need.
Consider vertical space; stacking boxes and shelves helps a great deal in optimising a smaller unit.
For bigger items, like furniture or unusual sizes of business equipment, container storage would provide greater flexibility in work area and shipping.
Not Packing and Labelling Properly
Incorrect packing will damage valuables not packed well. Boxes that are not labelled will render finding what you need later on nearly impossible, resulting in great frustration.
How to Avoid:
- Utilise strong boxes and quality packing supplies, including bubble wrap and furniture covers.
- Label each box distinctly with what is inside and make an inventory list for future reference.
- Keep items you use most in front of the unit for convenience.
If you are storing your belongings in container storage for extended periods or for moving, tie and cushion your items to prevent them from moving around during transportation.
Failure to Consider Climate Control Features
Climate control may not be offered in all storage units, and failure to consider temperature and humidity changes can destroy materials such as electronics, furniture made of wood, and documents.
Preventing This Mistake:
- When climate control is offered, store delicate items without hesitation of damage from heat, cold, and humidity.
- Store items using plastic bins rather than cardboard boxes to protect them from humidity.
- Place electronics and appliances on top of the floor to avoid water damage.
- Long-term storage in containers does not necessarily have climate control, so utilise silica gel packets to draw moisture and protect against sensitive materials.
Failure to Use Appropriate Security Measures
Most individuals believe that all storage facilities are as secure as the next one, but this is not always the case. Your contents can be stolen or get destroyed if one does not take the proper safety precautions.
How to Avoid:
Choose a storage facility that offers security features such as gated entry, CCTV cameras, and on-site personnel.
Use a more secure lock on your container—cylinder locks or disc locks are more secure than plain padlocks.
Don’t keep extremely valuable or irreplaceable items unless the facility provides enhanced security features.
If you have container storage, think about supplementing security features like GPS tracking and hardened locking systems, particularly if the container will be stored off-site.
Not Insuring Your Stored Items
Most renters believe storage units are at fault for anything damaged or stolen, but a majority of them are limited on their liability. You might be unable to gain compensation for your items in a storage unit should anything happen.
Tips on Avoiding This Mistake:
- Read through your renter’s or homeowner’s policy to determine whether your items kept in storage facilities are covered.
- If not, inquire with the storage facility on the availability of insurance or take out a personal policy to secure your items.
- Photograph and make an inventory of valuable content in case a claim needs to be made.
- In the case of container storage, check whether the storage facility provides insurance protection for transit and storage.
Final Thoughts
Storage unit rental may be an efficient solution for personal or commercial storage needs, but steer clear of these pitfalls to experience trouble-free rentals. Choosing the right unit space, proper packing and labelling, consideration of climate control, being mindful of security, and insurance for your property will protect your items and make the best out of your storage units.
Whether you need temporary storage units in Hampton for a move or business inventory storage for an extended period of time, it will all pay off if you plan ahead.