Storage Tips | How to Move In and Out of Your Storage Unit

Properly storing your items in a storage unit will mitigate the chance of damage during storage, while helping to keep you organized. This will help to make sure your moving process is easier and faster with a well thought out plan. Utilize these self storage unit tips below to get the most out of your storage unit!

Before Moving In…

  • Decide whether you need a traditional storage unit or a temperature-controlled storage unit
  • Notify us if you are looking for boat or RV storage options
  • Clean out appliances before storing them and leave doors on microwaves and refrigerators slightly open to prevent mildew
  • Understand and abide by all provisions of the lease agreement
  • Drain gasoline and oil from lawnmowers and other items with engines
  • Wipe all metal surfaces with a rag containing a few drops of machine oil to alleviate rust

How to Pack your Self Storage Unit:

  • Stack heavier items on the bottom and create aisle ways to give you access to items stored in the back of the unit
  • Store items you will need most often near the front of the unit
  • Label all boxes on all sides. This will save you time in the long run
  • Use trash cans to store shovels, hoes, and rakes
  • Be sure not to overpack boxes so they do not get too heavy and dangerous
  • Avoid stacking things directly against the wall to leave room for some airflow
  • Keep items that might draw moisture (wood/upholstery) up off the floor or provide a moisture barrier between the floor and your items
  • Be sure not to overpack boxes so they do not get too heavy and dangerous

Before Moving Out…

  • Completely clean & sweep your unit upon moving out
  • Notify us 5 days before you plan on moving out
  • Remove your lock from your storage unit

Items that Can Not be Stored in your Storage Unit

Some of the biggest storage tips we can offer to you is knowing what NOT to keep in your storage unit. The items on the list are not to be stored in a storage unit due to the many issues they may cause:
  • Food or any other sort of item that will attract rodents
  • Firearms
  • Illicit drugs or drug paraphernalia
  • Live animals
  • Liquids
  • Explosives
  • Flammable liquids and fuels
  • Toxic materials
  • Any other items that need a controlled environment

Find a Storage Unit Near You

Access Storage Now is happy to help you with all your storage needs. If you have any questions for us check out our Frequently Asked Questions page or call any of our storage facilities and one of our representatives will be happy to answer all your questions.