9 Common Self Storage Mistakes
9 Common Mistakes We Make with Self-Storage Units
First-time storage facility tenants frequently commit at least one of these common blunders. However, you don’t need to worry. Now that you’re here, you’ll be ready to start storing like a pro in no time. Check out these nine (9) most typical mini storages blunders:
1. No Insurance Coverage
The biggest mistake people make is not getting adequate insurance coverage on storage items. If something were to happen to your possessions, having insurance could mean the difference between losing everything and getting something in return (lost or stolen). We suggest you contact your insurance carrier and check into the cost. Most renter’s insurance will cover these items. Moishe offers SecureLease, a flexible and affordable protection plan- call us for more information.
2. Not Making Security a Priority
Storage facilities in New York need to have good security, and if you don’t ask about it, that can be a mini storage mistake. Buildings that are enclosed are much safer than those that are out in the open. Most people could be kept out by fences, but those who want to get in will find a way. Ask the storage facility about their security measures so you can sleep well knowing your things are safe.
3. No Planning Ahead
Another mistake people make when using public storage is not having a storage plan. Think ahead to what packing supplies you’ll need, such as boxes, tape, labels, and pens. It’s also smart to draw up a floor plan for your unit. Place the items you use most frequently at the front of your storage unit and clear a path through the rest.
4. Renting Wrong Sized Unit
Many first-time renters make the common mistake of not thinking through how large of a storage unit they will need. Due to overpaying for unused space, they are left with no choice. Maximize the usefulness of the space you’ve rented by making full use of all available vertical and horizontal dimensions. Moishe’s makes it simple for you- click here to use our room-size calculator.
5. Not Checking on Unit
Another common mistake people make when using self-storage is not checking the unit regularly. Over time, things can gather dust, develop mold, or even become broken. Leaving your belongings somewhere for an extended period is risky, but if you check on them occasionally, you can rest assured that nothing will happen to them.
6. Not Protecting Items in Storage
Even if your unit is not on the ground floor, spills and floods can still happen. Moishe’s Self Storage recommends protecting your items by placing a plastic sheet or tarp on the floor before putting your items in the unit. It’s also best practice to raise your items with something like pallets. Never store electronics directly on the floor.
7. Not Protecting Against Pest
Mice, ants, moths, and silverfish are just a few of the pests that can ruin your belongings. Failure to take measures to prevent damage to stored items from insects is a basic storage error. You’ll have more success repelling these pests with cedar balls than with mothballs. Clothes that have been treated with mothballs stink and may have been exposed to chemicals that are harmful to humans. On the other hand, cedar balls act as a natural repellent for these insects.
8. Using the Wrong Packing Materials
Another mistake made by public storage facilities is to use newspapers instead of acid-free paper. If you only need to store items for a few months, you might be able to get away with using a newspaper, but if you need to keep them for six months or more, you should probably look elsewhere. Use acid-free packing paper instead, as this will prevent any discoloration or deterioration of your photos, artwork, clothing, and other valuables during long-term storage.
9. Not Labeling Boxes Properly
People also often forget to label things when they put them away. As a result, it can be difficult to find anything specific when you return to the storage unit months later, as many first-time storers fail to label their boxes. Store a master inventory list of container labels near the front of the storage locker.
If you need a place to store your belongings in New York City, look no further than Moishe’s Self Storage. Your items would be safe with us. Our two New York City storage facilities (in Queens/Brooklyn and Manhattan/The Bronx) are located close to you. We have over 20 different storage unit sizes for people, schools, and businesses to choose from. Check availability and rates or make a reservation.