Ultimate guide to a self storage unit
Renting a self storage unit is a practical and reliable solution to accommodate your possessions during transitional periods at home or for a business requirement. With space at a premium, it is important to assess your storage needs and gather information on suitable storage solutions. Bigfoot Self Storage offers a wide range of storage unit sizes and flexible solutions tailored to meet your individual needs. Here are a number of useful tips to create the ultimate guide to a self storage unit.
This guide will provide you with invaluable tips for preparing, packing, labelling and organising items for your self storage unit. At Bigfoot Self Storage we understand the importance of providing secure, accessible and user-friendly storage solutions to cater to your requirements. Use our expert advice in this guide to help you get the most out of your storage unit.
Assess your storage needs
The first thing to do when looking for a storage solution is to assess and evaluate all of your possessions. Take time to sort through your belongings to determine which items require storage. Some items could be valuable; some could simply be discarded, sold or donated.
Preparing items for storage
Prior to storing your belongings, ensure appropriate preparation of items to maintain their condition and to optimise storage space. Here are some steps to help you prepare your items for storage:
– Deep clean all belongings to prevent odours within the storage space.
– Dismantle large, bulky pieces of furniture and wrap individual components for protection and easier storage.
– Vacuum seal textiles, such as clothing and bedding, to save space and prevent mildew.
– Clean and protect leather and wooden furniture to maintain their condition.
– Store appliances in an upright position, with doors slightly ajar for ventilation.
Packing and protecting items
Packing your items properly will help keep them in great shape, no matter how long they’re in your storage unit. Here are several techniques to ensure your items are packed efficiently:
– Make sure you use plenty of protective materials such as bubble wrap, packing peanuts, stretch wrap or even old bed sheets and clothing.
– Use uniform-sized boxes to facilitate stacking and optimise the layout of your storage unit.
– Opt for sturdy, weather-resistant packing materials to protect your belongings from damage.
– Store heavy items in smaller boxes to prevent breakages and make them easier to handle.
– Label boxes according to their contents, using a consistent system that differentiates between types of items.
– Pack belongings with similar usage together, e.g., kitchenware, office supplies, or seasonal items, for easier identification and access.
Organising and arranging your self storage unit
Good organisation of your self storage unit ensures maximum utilisation of space and maintains easy access to your items. To help you achieve this, follow these simple steps:
– Arrange your belongings in a manner that maximises accessibility and space. Create a walkway space in the unit so that you can easily access items further back in the unit.
– Think about keeping items grouped together by frequency of use, placing regularly accessed items at the front of the unit.
– Stacking your belongings thoughtfully will optimise space and prevent damage to items during storage. Place heavy, sturdy items at the bottom of a stack and lighter, fragile items on the top.
Protecting sensitive items
Certain items, such as electronics, artwork, or antique furniture may require special attention due to their fragile nature and sensitivity to environmental factors. Consider the following advice to protect your sensitive belongings:
– Wrap fragile items individually in bubble wrap or packing paper. Store them in sturdy boxes with proper cushioning.
– Store artwork or mirrors in adequate cardboard boxes with corner protectors, or invest in custom-made wooden crates for valuable art or antiques.
– Shield wooden furniture from moisture by covering it in a breathable, non-plastic material such as furniture pads or blankets. Avoid sealing wood in plastic, as this can cause condensation and subsequent damage.
Security and peace of mind
The safety and security of your possessions are a top priority. Self storage facilities offer high levels of security and features such as PIN coded access, gated premises and CCTV security. Units are usually padlocked so you hold the key to your own unit.
Maximising space with vertical storage solutions
Utilising vertical space within your storage unit can substantially increase the available storage area and improve organisation. Here are some innovative vertical storage ideas to expand your unit’s storage capacity:
– Use freestanding shelving units to create multiple levels of storage, providing easy access to items without the need for unstacking boxes.
– Opt for sturdy plastic boxes in place of cardboard boxes for added strength during vertical stacking, reducing the risk of box collapse and damage to items within.
Regular maintenance and inspections
Regularly inspecting your self storage unit can help identify and address any existing or potential issues, ensuring your belongings remain in optimal condition. Schedule routine visits to your storage unit to inspect the condition of your possessions and address any emerging concerns. Regular visits enable you to detect and rectify issues early such as dampness, damage, or item deterioration.
Adhering to prohibited items guidelines
Abiding by the guidelines on prohibited items helps maintain a safe and secure environment in the storage facility. Refrain from storing items such as hazardous materials, perishable goods, live animals, or firearms within your unit. Consult your storage facility’s specific guidelines on prohibited items to ensure compliance.
Unlocking the full potential of your self storage experience
Bigfoot Self Storage is committed to providing secure, convenient, and comprehensive self storage solutions to cater for your storage requirements. By incorporating some of the useful tips above to create the ultimate guide to a self storage unit, you can optimise your self storage unit and ensure your belongings are well-protected and easily accessible.
Whether you need personal storage or business storage solutions, trust Bigfoot Self Storage to deliver high-quality, tailored storage services. Get in touch with our dedicated storage specialists for expert advice and support.
