Dos and Donts of Self-Storage

Do's and Don'ts of Self-Storage Image via Isorepublic.com Don’t: Store dangerous things This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s important to know what you are and are not allowed to store in a self-storage unit. It’s good to be familiar with the list of prohibited things so that you don’t bring any of them. Of course, if you have any questions about what you’re not allowed to bring, ask the manager at your storage provider. Examples of prohibited items include: •Combustible/flammable/toxic materials (no gasoline, propane, fireworks, explosives, corrosives, etc.) •More than four tires, because it’s expensive to dispose of them. •Radioactive materials •Some construction equipment •Perishable food •Plants dead or alive Do: Research It’s so important to do your research before self-storing. A quick visit to your self-storage provider’s website can give you a lot of information that’ll help you plan what/how you will store. For example, it will tell you what size units they have and if the units have air conditioning. Don’t: Keep things uncovered Self-storage units can get very dusty. Keeping things covered, wrapped, or in a box will ensure they won’t get dirty or dusty. Be sure to protect your stuff by not leaving them in the unit without the proper protection! Do: Get the appropriately sized unit Self-storage providers have multiple sizes of units available that can range from 55 (the size of a small walk-in closet) to a 1030 (the size of a 1.5 car garage). Figure out what sizes your provider has and which one works the best for the price and the number of things you want to store. Usually, you can easily find this information on your provider’s website. Extra Space Storage has a convenient “Storage Calculator” tool to help you decide which size unit is right for you based on the number of things you plan to store. Don’t: Forget about insurance or locks Some self-storage places require you to purchase insurance and locks to protect your belongings. Check your storage place to see their specific requirements for what you need to bring with you. (Also, a lot of storage places will have insurance and locks available for you to purchase from them. Another reason to look into it!) Do: Let them know in time if you plan to move out Self-storage places need to know in advance if you plan to move out. A good rule of thumb to remember is that they need to know at least 10-15 days before you move out. This not only helps them accommodate new people who want to self-store, but it also helps them charge you only for what you use. You won’t have to pay for the entire month if you don’t use it for the entire month. It’ll be more convenient for the storage place, for new self-storers, and for you, if you let them know in advance you’ll be moving out. Don’t: Store anything that requires electrical power Most self-storage units don’t have electrical outlets, so don’t store anything you would have to plug into one. This means don’t bring and expect to plug in a generator, a refrigerator, or anything similar. If you need to plug something in while you store it, or if you don’t know whether an item you want to bring is allowed, ask the store manager at your storage place. Self-storage doesn’t have to be scary! As long as you make a plan, do your research, find an appropriately sized unit, and don’t store anything you shouldn’t, you should be good to go!