Resources Blog

July 01, 2021

There are several reasons to rent out storage space. You might have items cluttering up your house, or you might need a space to put your belongings while you move.

You might even inherit a house full of belongings and need a storage unit to keep the valuable items.

No matter the situation, we're all thankful that storage spaces exist. They keep us from tossing furniture and items we might want to keep for the future.

But how do you keep those items safe and locked up? That is a concern for many people. If you want to know how to store your valuables for safekeeping, read our tips below. 

Make Sure the Storage Space Has Climate Control

Renting a storage space with climate control is always the best way to keep your belongings safe and sound. Climate control means that the facility has air conditioning and heat to keep harsh weather conditions at bay.

For instance, if you live in an area with a balmy temperature, the humidity will destroy cardboard packaging. It will eat right through and damage your items.

Consider this if you're storing thing such as the following: 

• Wood furniture
• Musical instruments
• Paper documents
• Books and magazines
• Vinyl records
• Electronics
• Antiques

Extreme weather conditions may split, crack, or warp these items beyond repair. As a rule of thumb, if you live anywhere that experiences hot weather or temperatures below freezing, you want to look into a climate-controlled storage unit.

Even if you live in an area with moderate temperature, you should still get climate control. You never know how objects will react to even the slightest bit of heat or cold. 

Look Into the Facility's Security Protocol

Do not be afraid to ask about the storage unit's security protocols. They should have several methods set in place to ensure that everyone's belongings are safe and sound.

To start, everyone who rents should have a key or a pin code that grants them access to the building. That way, only renters have access to the interior of the storage space.

Beyond that, everything like elevators and doors should only open with the same key card or pin code. If someone manages to sneak inside the front door, this method will inhibit them from getting any further. Each storage unit should have a lock with a unique code.

The company usually gives you this upon rental. As for the building, look to see if there are security cameras set up at every corner during your walkthrough. According to statistics, outdoor cameras help deter about 50% of crime.

If someone steals your stuff, security footage can help catch the criminal and locate your lost items. If you still aren't sold on a space after checking all of those security features, turn to the internet.

Reviews are often honest. Type the company's name into the browser and see what people have to say.

Be sure to look at reviews of varying degrees. You don't want to focus only on five-star and one-star reviews.

You should also check multiple review websites like Glassdoor, Trustpilot, and Angie's List. By doing this, you ensure that you get a well-rounded view of the storage company. 

Invest in a Lock

As mentioned, the storage company will give you a lock and key upon rental. That doesn't mean you have to stick with it, though.

If you think it seems faulty or flimsy, head to your local store. You can find padlocks of varying security that should fit on your storage unit. If you want, you could even use both locks for double the safety. 

Make an Inventory List

As you pack up your house, have a list nearby to take inventory. The process is taxing, especially if you have a lot of stuff, but it will save you in the long run.

When you retrieve your items from storage, you can consult your inventory list to ensure you aren't missing anything. If something isn't there, you can speak with the company's management with your inventory list as proof. 

Label Everything

Keeping your items safe doesn't just mean deterring potential burglars. You have to keep them safe from yourself, too!

When you move, you have countless boxes. That makes it difficult to remember what contains what. Not to mention that moving is hectic, and people grab boxes without thinking about what is inside.

If you label your storage box as fragile, you and others will know to carry and place them down with care. If you hire a moving company, labels are essential.

They won't know what you own unless you write it on the box. So, the fine china might get broken if the movers don't know it is in there.

Plus, labeling can help with the organization along the way. All of your kitchen items will stack with each other.

The same goes for other rooms in the house. When you go to unpack, later on, you can do so with ease. 

Use Storage Containers

Cardboard boxes are great, but plastic storage containers add an extra layer of protection. These storage supplies seal airtight, keeping outside elements like dirt from getting inside.

They also come in varying sizes. So, if you have small trinkets or jewelry, you can put them in a smaller container instead of a big box.

That minimizes the risk of losing those items. You can also get large containers, many of which are bigger than a regular storage box. 

Rent a Storage Box

As you can tell, there are several ways to ensure you keep your valuables safe in a storage unit. Remember, always ensure there is climate control. That way, the weather does not damage your items.

And always purchase a high-grade lock to add to the security of the building. If you still don't feel comfortable enough with renting a storage unit, you could always look into the Storage Box.

We are a company that provides portable storage units that sit right outside of your house. With the storage box, you no longer have to worry about the safety of your belongings.

Feel free to contact us today. We are happy to answer any questions and concerns you may have.