Tips for Using Self-Storage Units Copy

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Tips for Using Self-Storage Units

Joanna Gaines, star of the popular HGTV show Fixer Upper, uses a few self storage units to pack away great antique finds before she lovingly places them in her clients’ homes. However, you don’t have to be a TV star to find that you need a self-storage unit. Whether you’re storing college belongings for the summer, downsizing your residence, stowing away valuables or de-cluttering for a home sale, a self-storage can come in mighty handy.

So, how do you get started? Here are a few tips to get you moving.

When choosing a self-storage facility, be sure not to base your selection on price alone. One of the greatest benefits of self-storage is the flexibility it affords in having access to your property whenever you need it. Make sure you find a location that’s nearby so you can quickly grab something needed. The facility should also make it easy for tenants to access their belongings at any time of the day or night. Finally, the facility should have state-of-the-art security systems in place so you are not vulnerable to theft.

Depending on what you store, cold Michigan winters and hot summers could damage your belongings. Extreme heat could cause wood furniture to warp. Some self-storage facilities offer temperature-controlled units, with heat in the winter and AC in the summer. Also, find out whether the self-storage facility offers pest control services and stick with one that does!

If something’s valuable enough for you to pay to store it, don’t risk losing it in a disaster such as a fire or roof collapse. If you have homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, ask your agent whether the items in your self-storage unit are covered under your policy. If they are not, buy at least the minimum amount of insurance offered by the self-storage facility. It’s inexpensive and could prove priceless.

Once you get to the point of placing your treasures into a unit, take time to be organized. Make sure all clothing, linens and draperies are clean, and store small items in bins and boxes to maximize space. Consider how often you’ll need to access certain things and keep them closest to the door. Also, cushion any fragile items and put them toward the top of the self-storage unit so there is less chance of breakage. Label your cartons and create a list of all items in each box so you can easily find your property when you need it.

So, whether you are vying to be the next HGTV home improvement star and need to store your collections or you simply want a little more space, a self-storage unit can be a simple solution.