Tips for Self Storage Newbies

There can be many reasons why a person would need to utilize a self-storage unit. However, there are some tips that can help individuals regardless of the reason why they are using their storage unit. Here are just a few tips that could help customers who are new to self-storage. 

Limit the Maximum Height of the Stacked Boxes

Stacking storage boxes too high can be a mistake that can lead to considerable damage to the items that you are storing. When this mistake is made, it can put too much weight on the boxes at the bottom. As a result, the entire stack may collapse and fall. Most storage containers will only be able to be stacked a few high before they start to encounter a risk of collapsing. Furthermore, you should further reduce this if the boxes are especially heavy, and many boxes that are designed for storage use will have the recommended weight that the box can support to help you with knowing how high to stack them.

Understand the Potential Hazards of Using Plastic Wrap or Containers

Individuals that are needing to use a storage unit may place their items in plastic wrap or containers. While plastic can help to prevent the item from getting wet from leaks or other sources, it can allow condensation to get trapped, which can also cause water damage.

When choosing materials and boxes, you should consider the ventilation that they will provide. This can allow any condensation to quickly evaporate. Using a climate-controlled storage unit can help to avoid these problems. However, there will still be a chance that the air that was trapped by these containers when you were packing will be moist enough to allow condensation to form and cause this damage.

Invest In a Spare Key for Your Unit's Lock

Most self-storage providers will require tenants to provide their own locks for the doors to their units. Unfortunately, individuals will often fail to keep a spare key available. Since you may not go to your storage unit on a particularly frequent basis, it can be easy to accidentally lose this key. By having the foresight and planning to have a spare key made and stored in a safe location, you will reduce the risk of needing to have the lock cut off the unit. In many instances, this will require hiring a locksmith to cut the lock, which could be pricey for a simple mistake. Additionally, it may be necessary to coordinate with the storage provider as to when these services can be done as they may need to be present for a unit to be forcibly entered.

Learn more about renting a storage unit by contacting companies such as Cardinal Self Storage.