Storage Tips

What Size Do I Need?


We have many sizes of units available, but here is a brief list to help you determine what size unit you may need. 
 
5x5
Stores miscellaneous boxes, a chair, a chest of drawers, clothing, tall items like coat racks and lamps.
Business:  Stores 35 file boxes.
 
5x10
Stores 10-15 boxes, one or two large pieces of furniture, bicycle, motorcycle or yard equipment.
Business:  Stores 85 file boxes and small file cabinets.
 
10x10
Stores furnishings of a one-bedroom apartment, including some major appliances.
Business:  Stores 170 standard file boxes, desks and chairs.
 
10x15
Stores furnishings and appliances of a 2-3 bedroom house.  Can store a compact car and some full-size vehicles.
Business:  Stores 390 standard file boxes, furniture and excess inventory.
 
10x30
Stores furnishings of a 3-4 bedroom house, most vehicles, commercial trailers and boats.
Business:  Stores 580 standard file boxes, small office furniture and excess inventory.


Business Storage


Many businesses such as doctors' offices, dentists, pharmaceutical reps, contractors, restaurants, and retail stores use storage units to house their patient records, excess inventory, unused seasonal items, pharmaceutical products, equipment and more.  It is generally more economical to rent a storage unit than to expand office space, and a clean office is always a much more productive office.  With your extra clutter in storage, you will have more time to concentrate on what really matters.


Do!


  • Use furniture drawers to store delicate items and carefully wrap and label them as "Fragile."  Bubble wrap and packing paper are excellent for this purpose.
  • Use similar sized boxes, as they will be easier to stack.
  • Remember to fill boxes completely when packing toys or smaller objects, stuffing open areas with plain newspaper, to prevent collapse when stacking.
  • Stack heavier boxes on the bottom but be careful not to over-pack boxes so they become too heavy and dangerous.
  • Be sure not to store anything combustible (such as chemicals or paint) or perishable (such as food).
  • Avoid stacking items directly against the wall, or on the floor, to leave room for some air flow in the unit.  Pallets work well for this.
  • Drain fluids when storing lawn and garden equipment to avoid corrosive damage.
  • Use shelving units to take advantage of vertical space.
  • Use trash cans to store shovels, rakes and hoes.
  • Always use high-quality locks on your unit.  Locks are available for sale — just ask the site manager for a recommendation.
  • Label all boxes, on all sides.
  • Use specially constructed boxes when storing delicate heirlooms, such as wardrobe boxes, and utilize dehumidifiers to prevent mildew.  Remember to label these boxes "Fragile."
  • When storing appliances, be sure to clean them out first!  Leave the door slightly open on refrigerators and microwaves to prevent mildew.
  • Always store furniture on pallets or boards.
  • Rub a small amount of oil on metal tools, bikes, etc.  This will prevent rust. Be sure to keep these items separate so the oil does not get on other things.
  • Cover mattresses and store flat on a level surface.
  • Store mirrors and paintings on end; do not lay them flat.  Wrap and label them as "Fragile."
  • Place blankets, towels, etc. in large appliances, such as refrigerators or stoves to maximize space.
  • Place blankets or a cloth over and between furniture to prevent scratching.
  • Save space by disassembling items/removing legs and store tabletops and sofas on end.
  • Treat wood surfaces and use protective covers before storing.
  • Label all boxes and create aisles when storing business files so files are easily accessible and seen.

Don't!


  • Store any food item in a storage unit as it will attract rodents.
  • Store paint, oil or gasoline in your storage unit.  Drain all gas and oil from lawnmowers, snow blowers, etc.  It is against the law to store hazardous or combustible materials such as these.
  • Place mothballs in boxes.  They could leave stains on clothing.
  • Give untrusted sources access codes or keys to your storage unit.
  • Hesitate to ask the facility manager any questions you may have before or during your move!