Homeowners seek out storage units for a wide array of reasons. While some need to temporarily relocate to other cities or states, others seek to declutter and organize their space. A messy living space gives birth to an unhealthy lifestyle that brings no good to the residents.
If you frequently find yourself tripping over toys or your garage is overflowing with junk, a storage unit is necessary. It will help you enjoy security, privacy, and efficiency alongside decluttering your space of all the unwanted yet integral belongings. If you're relocating to another location and don't want to carry all your belongings, seek a safe and spacious storage unit.
However, your effort doesn't end once you've found your storage unit; in fact, it only begins. There are numerous factors you need to consider while shopping around and moving your belongings. This article will walk you through all the things to prevent while using storage units.
COMPROMISING ON SECURITY
Most people end up compromising on the most significant factor to settle with the cheapest option. But this decision can cost you thousands of dollars worth of belongings. If you're storing valuables, high-quality furniture, baby items, or even clothes, you need adequate security. If you think that the metal door and sturdy padlock will prove enough to protect your belongings, you're wrong.
One of the most significant factors to scrutinize while visiting storage unit facilities is the security protocols. Do they have security cameras and a controlled and highly secure access gate? Does the security facility allow anyone to come in and access the storage units?
A high-end and secure storage facility only allows access to those who rent storage units. No unauthorized individual can enter a safe and controlled facility.
Let's say you are booking Carrollton self storage units for a short or long term basis; get to know all the features that will scare burglars away from the area. No matter how big or sturdy they are, Padlocks cannot keep thieves out of your storage unit. You need a facility that provides robust security mechanisms and on-site cameras to monitor every movement.
PICKING THE WRONG SIZE
An awful mistake and most commonly-made blunders: choosing the wrong size storage unit. Homeowners typically gravitate towards cheaper and smaller options, thinking they can easily cramp everything in with their Herculian stacking abilities. That never happens. Instead, they end up damaging and breaking their furniture and valuables.
The need to save money is understandable, but you don't want to end up with the wrong sized storage unit. You see, a small space will get the items crammed and folded, resulting in breakages and damages. Be sure to adequately evaluate your needs and find a spatially efficient storage unit that allows everything to fit in smoothly.
NEGLECTING PACKAGING & SAFETY
Are you seeking a storage unit as a long-term solution? If yes, then stacking and cramming your stuff wouldn't work. You need to put together a strategy that ensures the safety of your belongings. It is wise to pick out sturdy cardboard boxes and use different materials to pack fragile items.
Delicate crockery and valuables require bubble wrap to prevent breakage while transporting or offloading. You can also end up breaking an item while sorting through your storage unit if it's inefficiently packed.
MEANINGLESS & PURPOSELESS STACKING
If you're stuffing things into your storage unit with meaningless and purposeless stacking, be prepared for breakage. You may need to take out something at the very end of your storage unit on one bright morning. What then? You will have to remove every single box and item to get to that thing you want.
Instead, take a more efficient approach to stack and store items so you can retrieve them with ease and convenience. Start with a plan; keep the most useful things in the front and the least items in the back. Be sure to create a path where you can walk and sort through your items whenever needed.
STORING THE WRONG ITEMS
Even if you have the most pristine and highest-quality storage unit, you can't store everything. There are a few things you cannot put in your storage. For instance, food items will only rot and create a mold that will damage your other belongings.
Plants are another item as they will wither and rot, causing damage to your other items in the unit. Pets and living creatures cannot survive in a storage unit. You should avoid storing chemicals, propane, or other hazardous materials.
DECLINING INSURANCE
Homeowners typically decline storage insurance to save up money on their monthly rental payments. It is a BIG mistake, and it can cost you all your valuables and belongings. Such a decision compromises the security of your items and investment. In the event of a fire or natural disaster, the facility owner is liable for your belongings if you have insurance.
CONCLUSION
Avoiding these self-storage mistakes will help you prevent all kinds of damages, breakages, and security mishaps. It is crucial to prioritize research and explore around for options before you settle down with a unit. Prioritizing affordability is frugal and wise, but not at the cost of your safety and security.
