Storage FAQ

How do I know what size unit to rent?

First, perform an inventory of the belongings you want to store. Count all of your boxes, noting whether they are small, medium, or large.  Identify larger items like couches, mattresses, bookshelves, tables and dressers. Write everything down. As you go, make note of anything that might require climate-controlled storage.

Determine which items can be stacked on top of each other to make use of the height of the storage space as well as the length and width. This can make a big difference in the size of the unit you require. 

Finally, measure your stuff. There’s no right or wrong way to do this; you might put all your things in a pile and measure it, or measure each item’s length, width and height and map out a plan. Anything works so long as you end up with a measurement of cubic feet required (length x width x height). If your pile measures 5 feet x 5 feet x 7 feet, you need a storage unit with at least 175 cubic feet.

What if I don’t have time to create a detailed inventory?

You can save time by identifying and measuring your longest and widest items and choosing a size based on those, as well as a rough estimate of what else you may be storing.

What if I choose the wrong size unit?

This is not an uncommon circumstance, because it can be hard to visualize how much space your items will require. If what you chose doesn’t match what you want to store, just give us a call and we’ll work with you to find the right size and make any changes needed to your rental agreement.

What determines the price of a storage unit?

Our storage units are priced based on a number of factors, including size, facility amenities (such as climate control) and length of rental agreement.

Should I choose standard storage or climate-controlled?

Climate controlled storage maintains a consistent temperature and air circulation all year round, and as it is contained inside another building, it offers an additional barrier from dust and debris. These features make it a great choice if you have very valuable items or sensitive items that are susceptible to damage in extreme temperatures. Some items that may require this protection include antiques (especially wood  or upholstered furniture), musical instruments, wall art, books and magazines, business records, photographs, vinyl records, and electronics.

How can I ensure my items are secure?

Choose a storage facility that puts a high priority on security, and be careful about sharing your gate code with anyone else. 

​

What are some tips to remember when packing my stuff for storage?

• Label your boxes. You’d be surprised how easy it is to forget what’s in what box once everything is sealed up. If you ever need to come in and grab something, you’ll be glad you did this. 

• Color coding is another good option. Buy different colors of duct tape for each room of your home and use it when labeling your items to make it easy to sort things when you’re ready to move again.

• Cover furniture with pads or blankets not plastic, which can trap moisture resulting in mold or mildew. 

• Box up small items to prevent them from falling. 

• Wrap fragile items in paper and place them in boxes in a way that prevents them from shifting around in the box as they’re moved. 

• Don’t store anything perishable. Anything that can spoil can lead to bad odors and attract bugs and rodents.

What are some tips to remember when the time comes to actually move my things into storage?

• Remember that items like sofas or dressers may be turned on their side to maximize storage space.

• If you’re storing shelves, fill them up with smaller items and boxes.

• Store items you’re more likely to need soon in the front of the storage unit, while things you can probably live without go in the back. 

• Keep heavier things close to the ground, but take advantage of the vertical space in your unit by stacking smaller and lighter things on top. 

• If possible, leave a pathway from the front of the unit to the back so no item is completely out of reach.

• Ask for help if you need it. Moving items into storage can be difficult to tackle on your own, especially if you have bulky or heavy items. Having an extra set of hands will help the process go smoother, and you’ll reduce the risk of injury from lifting big, heavy things.