There are many reasons people use self storage but one of the key reasons people put their stuff into self storage is to keep it clean, safe and secure. To keep your items safe and secure requires action by both the storer and the storage facility. Keep in mind that not all self storage facilities are created equal so it is important to ask the correct questions and make the right observations before you decide which facility is the best for you.

1. Cameras

Ensure cameras are installed in and around the facility. When visiting a facility, try to locate a camera to ensure that it is not obstructed or covered and that there seems to be sufficient number of cameras so that you know your items are being monitored no matter where they are in the facility. Cameras may not stop criminal activity or thieves from breaking in, but they will assist if a break in does occur.

2. Signs

Ensure there are signs in and around the facility advertising the security features of the facility. This may deter criminals from trying to break into a facility and gives customers the peace of mind that you know what is going on in the facility at all times.

3. Security Gates

Ensure there are security gates at both the entry and exit points of the facility. This alone will not prevent criminals entering your site but will make it more difficult. Make sure there is adequate perimeter fencing that is strong, not damaged and high enough to keep intruders out. Fencing with barb wire at the top or gates with spikes on top will also ensure persons who do not have access do not gain access.

4. Lights

Ensure that the facility and car park is well lit at night and that the lights are well positioned. Industrial level security lighting should be used both inside and out and a mixture of permanent and motion sensor lighting should be used. Ensure that the path from your car to your unit is well lit and the surrounding area is lit whilst using your unit.

Here at Harrisburg Self Storage, we meet all these criteria, we ensure your stuff is safe and secure at all times. Call us today for a free quote!

We are always happy to give advice on the size unit, or size locker to rent. Or come down and take a look for yourself.  However, there some things to consider. This new article from our friends at Square Foot gives some great suggestions. Our best tip is use strong boxes or plastic containers and stack ‘em high. Most renters don’t take advantage of the full height.

For a condensed version of the article, keep reading!

Take stock

Take a quick inventory of items including furniture and appliances and estimate the number of boxes and/or totes. You can use a tape measure for the larger items. Consider whether you have irregular-shaped items that can’t be boxed or stacked like lamps or bikes.

To Cram or Not to Cram

Are you stuffing it full or do you need a slightly larger unit to walk around and move items?

Use Interactive Size Guides

They can help you gauge the right size unit and offer ideas for packing your unit.

Examples:
LifeStorage – Unit Size Guide

Gauge Space Using a Moving Truck

If you’re using a moving truck, the truck’s dimensions can help you estimate how much total storage space you’ll need. The truck size is typically one size larger than the unit size you’ll need

When in Doubt, Go Big

Many new customers underestimate their needs and choose a unit that’s too small. It’s recommended inquiring about the price of the next larger size.

See For Yourself

Before making that final decision, visit the facility to tour a unit that’s the same size as the one you’re planning to rent. Seeing it might be easier than trying to picture it in your head.

Understand Dimensions

Typically, units are sized by length times width, giving you an estimated floor space square footage. You can calculate your needs by square footage or the number of rooms you’ll be storing.

And that’s it! You can call us here at Harrisburg Self Storage for further help or advice!

We see so many people rent larger lockers than they need because they poorly plan the space. We see others stack them too full and too high – then they can’t find things that they need. Here are some excellent ideas to make the best use of your self storage unit.

Furniture at the back or one side.

If you need to retrieve items it is more likely to be from boxes. You  don’t want to move furniture out of the way every time to want to rummage in your unit.

Photos – Lots of Photos.

Use your phone and take photos of items as you pack and as you fill up your locker.  This has two benefits. It will help you remember what was packed in which boxes.  If there is a fire or loss in your locker your photos will make it easier to get paid by the insurance.

Install shelves and create a walkway.

Even cheap old shelves will help you access and see items like small appliances. You can stack thing higher but put heaviest items on the lowest shelves. The walkways will allow you to quickly access and retrieve items out so storage and make your labels easy to spot.

Place frequently accessed items in front.

Probably one of the most important rules for organizing your self-storage unit is to place frequently accessed items towards the front, so you don’t have to rearrange or dig through the contents of your unit.

Clearly label your boxes.

Time spent in labeling boxes will pay off. Even a few details with a marker pen will help. Do this on two sides of each box. Then place the label side out when filling your locker.

Use clear plastic bins or tubs.

Plastic containers are the best way to protect items against moisture and dirt, and clear plastic varieties are a great way to quickly see what’s inside. They also make for easy, uniform and ultimately safer stacking.

Use dust covers.

Place mattresses in plastic storage bags and cover upholstery and furniture with a sheet or tarp. Old sheets can be used if you don’t want to buy special bags or prefer not to use plastic.

Some organization up front takes time but it is so worthwhile. Planning will make your storage a more convenient and useful experience.