How do I select the right storage space for me?
The storage space rental is determined by the total size of the items being stored. An efficiently packed small space will cost less than a larger space. A larger, well-organized space (racks and file boxes) may be more convenient if you frequently use the space.
The following Self Storage Size Guide will help you estimate approximately how much space you need to store your stuff:
Storage Size
Specific Storage Tips...
Appliances: A refrigerator or freezer should be thoroughly dry and stored with its door slightly ajar. Some items can be stored inside large appliances, and cartons can be stacked on stoves, refrigerators, and freezers. Ensure that the stove and cooking equipment are cleaned before they are stored.
Bicycles and other metal items: To retard rust, wipe all metal surfaces with a rag containing a few drops of machine oil.
Books and documents: Pack books flat to protect their spines. Do not place boxes directly on the floor. Use pallets or skids to prevent moisture. Use packing to fill out empty pockets in the cartons. Do not pack fragile items in the same carton with books. Do not overload.
Bedding, Clothing, Curtains, Drapes & Linen: Clothing, curtains, and drapes should be stored on hangers. If hanging facilities are not available, such items should be carefully folded and stored in dresser drawers or cedar chests and bedding and linen. Some facilities sell wardrobe-style cardboard cartons which help protect your clothes. Food crumbs or stains should be removed before storage. Avoid storing anything that will attract rodents.
Dishes and Glassware: Place a layer of packing inside the bottom and top of the cartons containing glassware. Label all cartons. All glass items should be individually wrapped. Nest cups and bowls and stand plates, saucers, and platters on edge. Wrapped glasses should be placed toward the top of the carton.
Furniture: Place a pallet, cardboard mat, or plastic sheet on the floor and stand sofas and mattresses on end. Disassemble beds and tables and wrap the legs in paper. If a table will not disassemble, place padding on the floor and place the table on its top with the legs pointing up. Use dresser tops for stacking cartons and dresser drawers for linens or small, delicate items. Keep upholstery off the floor. Most lightweight chairs should be stacked "seat to seat" or placed upside down on tables that cannot be disassembled. Place a light dust cover over your furniture.
Holiday Decorations: Save original cartons which contain delicate ornaments and pad the ornaments with packing paper or newsprint. Wrap strings of lights around a piece of cardboard before placing it in a carton lined with packing paper.
Lamps: Wrap large lamp bases in padding. Wrap smaller lamps and place them in cartons. Pack delicate lamp shades separately. Do not use newsprint to wrap lamp shades or other goods that ink stains may damage. Do not store heavy items atop cartons containing lamps or lampshades.
Mirrors, Windows, and Screens: These items should be stored on edge, not flat.
Records and Phonographs: Records should be stored on edge to prevent warping. The tone arm and turntable should be secured when moving a record player to prevent bounding.
Tools: Metal tools should be cleaned and wiped with a rag containing a few drops of machine oil to retard rust. Long-handled tools such as rakes, shovels, and hoes should be clean, lightly oiled, and tied in bundles.
Other Helpful Tips
- Inspect your storage unit and make a list of packing accessories you will need. Commonly used packing aids include newsprint or wrapping paper, bubble wrap, tape, rope, drop cloths, polyurethane sheeting, mattress, furniture covers, pallets, skids, dehumidifiers, and cartons. The manager may have some or all of these items for sale on the premises.
- Place a pallet on the floor. Do not lean items against walls. Leaving air space around the unit's perimeter will aid ventilation. Leave a walkway to the rear of the unit. Use all the space available, including its height. Disassemble items such as bed frames.
- Place frequently used items near the door.
- Fill containers. Partially full or bulging cartons may tip or collapse. Heavy items such as books or tools should be packed in small boxes. If a carton is too heavy, it will be hard to lift and should be divided between two or more cartons.
- Fragile items should be cushioned by packing and placed toward the top of the unit.
- Label cartons and take home a list of the labeled cartons for easy reference when you need to locate your property.
Notice to Vacate
If you are going to move out and remove your items, please fill out your notice to vacate letter and send it in 10 days before the end of the month. We have supplied you with a Notice to Vacate standard letter for your convenience. Make sure you give us your new address if you have moved.