blogger.com Maintain Your Space: October 2015

Wednesday 28 October 2015

Prep for Next Summer Now

When the weather warms up and the lake is calling, the last thing you want to do is spend time repairing your boat. As you put it away for the winter, do routine maintenance so you’ll see fewer problems later. 


What Kind of Self-Storage Facility is Right for You?

Before doing research, some people think all self-storage facilities are basically the same. However, there are several different types such as:

  • Units made for boats
  • Facilities designed for RVs
  • Climate-controlled options

Many storage facilities have multiple locations throughout a state. For example, you may find a North Carolina-based establishment has branches in both east and west Raleigh.

Characteristics to Consider

Regardless of the specific type of storage unit you get, be sure to confirm that the property has a high level of security. It’s common for self-storage facilities to use gate codes and have surveillance cameras.

Furthermore, check to see what days and hours the storage units are accessible to ensure they are convenient for you. Find out how you can pay your bill, too. Some storage branches allow clients to make online payments, which is handy if you cannot get to the establishment in person when a bill is due.

Making Your Move Manageable

In an effort to help their customers move items into storage units as swiftly as possible, some self-storage businesses offer perks like complimentary use of moving trucks, and moving supplies available to buy on site if needed. These advantages could help you have a smoother overall experience.

The right kind of storage facility could give you more space, not to mention peace of mind. For more information about self storage in Raleigh, click here.


How to Keep Your Things Organized in Self-Storage

When it comes to putting your things away in a self-storage unit, organization is key, especially when packing. If you initially ensure everything is neat and orderly, you can avoid problems down the road. Whenever you need to get something, you will be able to do it with ease and without having to look through mountains of clutter. Also, if you store your things without order, you might risk knocking items down or breaking valuables. Luckily, there are some steps you can follow for the ultimate organization while packing and in your unit.

First and foremost, it is essential that you consider your needs and how much you own when choosing a unit. Keep in mind that it is better to have extra space rather than too little. When the space is too small, organization will be difficult and it will be harder to find things. When your unit is the right size, you will have a much easier time maintaining a place for everything. If you are unsure about this step, talking to the property manager can be helpful, as they will know the ins and outs of each unit type.

Next, create a plan. It is a terrible idea to just place random items into boxes without giving it much thought. This will only cause confusion down the road. Consider items that you will need to use frequently and which ones you will not need for a while. Include a layout in your plan that will indicate which items will be placed together, what needs to go in boxes and where those boxes will be stored. Also think about the items that will not go in the boxes and where you will place them in the storage unit. If you are storing larger appliances or furniture, these should be stored in the back. Remember to cover them properly and store them in the right positions.

Once your unit size has been chosen and your plan is made, it is time to do the actual packing. Remember to stick to your plan so that things will move smoothly and that you will get good use of the space. It will be very helpful to label your boxes so you know what is where. Don’t forget to wrap valuable items so they are kept safe. Also, do not make your boxes too heavy so that you can lift and carry them. Finally, you must make sure the truck is packed correctly. Put items that you want in the front of the unit in the truck first. Visit this website to learn more about business storage in Raleigh.

The Moving-Truck Loop: Marketing Your Self-Storage Truck So It Can Market for You

There sits the pride and joy of your self-storage facility: a sleek, new box truck wrapped in three-color graphics announcing to the world (or at least the neighborhood) that you’ve arrived… read more

Tips for Choosing the Right Storage Unit Size

When selecting a self storage unit, it’s important to choose the right size. This allows you plenty of room to safely keep your belongings while still providing reasonable access when it’s time to take things out. Finding the ideal unit size can be tricky, so refer to the tips below to start off on the right foot.

Smaller Capacity Needs

If you’re just cleaning out the garage or freeing up extra space, consider a more modest-sized storage unit. Unless you’re storing two-plus bedrooms worth of larger items, you should be able to get by with a smaller solution:

  • A space sized at 5x5’ is often sufficient for small-to-midsize boxes and furnishings, including chairs, cabinets, and bookshelves.
  • Choose a space of at least 5x10’ if you have wider items to accommodate, such as desks, loveseats, and so forth.

Larger Storage Sizes

If you’re moving or storing more than a one-bedroom apartment or studio’s worth of belongings, it’s probably best to step up in size:

  • Units measuring 10x10’ are usually spacious enough to work with smaller beds, couches, and large appliances including washers and dryers.
  • Choose a 10x15’ unit or larger when storing more than two bedrooms. For most, this is suitable for all types of items listed above as well as full-size beds.

When in doubt, it never hurts to ask for a little assistance. Contact the pros for helpful insight to make your moving experience frustration-free. For more information about RV storage in Raleigh, please visit this website.


Need a New Closet?

Think of a storage unit as an extension of your closet. It can be an excellent place to keep items you don’t use all the time, such as seasonal decorations. Find your goods when you need them by neatly organizing boxes. 


World Class Capital Group/Great Value Storage Acquires 3-Property Self-Storage Portfolio in Jackson, MS

Real estate investment firm World Class Capital Group LLC (WCCG) recently purchased a three-property self-storage portfolio in the Jackson, Miss., Metropolitan Statistical Area… read more

Items Never to Keep in Self Storage

Getting a hold on your personal or business space can be tricky when you have too much lying around. In many cases, self storage provides a convenient solution. However, it’s important to avoid storing certain items which are potentially dangerous. Consult this list for some of the most common prohibited items in any self storage facility.

Living Things

Storage units are no place for plants or animals, whether they’re actively living or otherwise. Make sure that any flora or fauna that you store is strictly of the faux nature.

Combustible Items

Any form of gasoline or fuel should be considered off-limits for obvious reasons. Similarly, fireworks, explosives, and hazardous waste should never be kept in self storage under any circumstance.

Toxic Materials

Chemicals, acids, lawn fertilizer, paint, corrosives and cleansers are all examples of toxic or potentially hazardous materials that shouldn’t be stored in this fashion. In almost every case, one can also assume that any products containing asbestos are not allowable.

Perishable Goods

Some facilities may allow the storage of canned goods, but definitely steer clear of anything considered to be perishable. Food items in storage units are a great way to attract unwanted pests, and the odor’s anything but pleasant if products go rotten.

When in doubt, err on the side of caution and speak with a facility manager before storing anything potentially dangerous. For more information about business storage in Raleigh, please visit this website.


Making Room

Everyone has too much stuff, whether it’s boxes of memorabilia, old furniture or a vehicle. When there just isn’t enough room at the house or apartment, people turn to storage units. They offer a secure, dry place to keep their treasures. 


3 Common Self Storage Misconceptions

For many people, self storage is a lifesaver. It provides a means to keep personal items secured without sacrificing space in one’s home. However, some still have concerns about off-site storage, many of which are simply unfounded. When you choose the right facility, it’s a safe, clean and easy way to manage an overload of belongings.


Is Self Storage Really a Safe Option?


When it comes to personal possessions, you deserve peace of mind. Some believe that self storage units are anything but secure, but it truly depends on the facility. Reputable locations offer features such as enclosed fences, video surveillance and on-site management. For these reasons, public storage is often much more secure than an unattended home might be.


Are Public Storage Units Clean?


This is another situation dependent on the facility itself, but overall, self storage is typically every bit as clean and protected as a good shed or garage would be. Sensitive items such as clothing and linens can always be provided with extra protection via airtight bins, but on the whole, cleanliness should be of little concern.


Isn’t Self Storage a Big Hassle?


Moving is never fun, but most good storage facilities are specifically designed for convenience. Quality storages might offer features such as automatic gate codes for after-hours access, as well as on-site supplies and tools to make your work easier. Once again, it’s all about where you do business.


For more information about clean, convenient and climate controlled storage in Raleigh, please visit this website.

Tuesday 27 October 2015

U-Haul Eyes Former Manufacturing Site for Self-Storage Conversion in Northborough, MA

Phoenix-based self-storage operator U-Haul International Inc. has applied for variances and special permits to convert a former manufacturing plant… read more