Top 5 Common Storage Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Welcome to the latest edition of our blog, where we unearth the secrets to a clutter-free life. It’s cheaper than therapy and we genuinely care. That’s why we’re all about avoiding mistakes, even those made alone in the quiet of your storage unit.
Whether you're a storage veteran or a newbie looking to stash away your treasures, it’s easy to make a few storage faux pas. But fear not! We're here to guide you through the five most common storage mistakes and how to sidestep them with the grace of a circus cat. So, light the incense (but not in your storage unit) and prepare for a journey to storage enlightenment.
1. Playing Tetris with Fragile Items
We've all tried it—stacking items like we're gunning for the high score. The problem? Your grandmother's china isn't as sturdy as that Encyclopedia Britannica set from 1998. Avoid the crash and clash by:
- Not stacking heavy items on top of boxes filled with fragile items
- Investing in quality packing material
- Always labeling boxes with a friendly "Fragile!!!!"
Allow your items to breathe by leaving space between them for air circulation and easy access. Think of it as feng shui for your storage unit—a little space can make a big difference.
If you need last minute packing items like sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, labels and sharpies, most of our Storelocal locations have everything you need right inside the office. Your friendly on-site manager will be happy to help (or talk you down if you’ve already broken something).
2. The "I'll Remember This" Fallacy
Ever stored something away, convinced you'll remember exactly where you put it?
Spoiler alert: You won't.
The solution is simple—keep an inventory. Whether it’s a detailed list, a digital spreadsheet or an olde-timey treasure map, record everything you store. It will save you from turning your storage unit into an excavation site.
If you find yourself wondering what all is in your unit, you might be a victim of "out of sight, out of mind." Regularly visit your storage unit to check on your items and remind yourself of what you have stored. It's like a reunion with your stuff—minus the awkward small talk.
3. Overlooking Climate Control
Storing items sensitive to temperature or humidity in a standard unit is like sending them on a one-way tropical vacation they didn’t sign up for. Items like wood furniture, electronics and your comic book collection need a stable environment.
The last thing we want is for you to fetch your beloved leather motorcycle jacket only to find it’s morphed into something that looks more like a prune than a symbol of reckless independence. Opting for a climate-controlled storage unit can keep prized items in pristine condition. It’s like giving your stuff its own little condo.
4. Not Giving Your Stuff the Fort Knox Treatment
Choosing a storage facility without vetting its security controls is like leaving your treasures guarded by a geriatric shih tzu. Securing your stuff should be more "Mission: Impossible" and less "Please, take my stuff."
Look for facilities with robust security features such as 24/7 surveillance, gated access, and bluetooth locks. At Storelocal, we take securing your stuff seriously. Whether you’re storing your antique boat, 50 years of family slide carousels or that overflowing box of holiday decorations, we want you to feel confident when you store with us. Be sure to check with your on-site manager about additional storage insurance options.
5. Settling for a Quick Fix or “Low Price”
The cheapest or quickest option isn't always the best, just ask anyone who’s tried speed dating. When it comes to storage facilities, consider factors like location, security, customer reviews and duration of storage. Remember, you're not just storing items, you're preserving memories and investments.
Before you put that crystal ball in storage, think about how long you'll need the storage unit and what for. Are you in between moves, or is this a long-term solution for your collectibles? Are you looking for a long-term business storage solution? Selecting the right size and type of unit based on your future needs can save you from the hassle of moving your items down the line.
Hassle-Free Storage, Done right
Everyone makes mistakes but our team is committed to minimizing those you might encounter during your storage experience. We’re here to guide you down the path of organizational bliss and maybe even make you a storage guru among your peers.
Remember, self-storage isn't just about stashing away what you don't need; it's about preserving what matters most for the future. So, pack wisely, choose carefully and always label your boxes. To find a storage facility near you, see our location finder in the toolbar at the top of the page. For questions or assistance, contact Storelocal today.
