Self Storage Tips

Defender Self Storage: Self Storage Tips

Need some self storage tips to get you started on the right foot? Defender Self Storage is your first choice for affordable storage units in OH and PA, and we’ve compiled a list of our top packing and storage tips to help you make the most of the space you are renting. Start your storage journey with Defender Self Storage today!
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Self Storage Tips for Finding Space & Packing

Storage Tips

Choose Your Storage Unit 

You have many self storage options in the Ohio and Pennsylvania area. So how do you choose a storage facility—and more specifically storage units—to house your belongings? Start by searching for self storage close to your home, work, business, or regular commutes. You are looking for convenience as much as you are looking for product and service.  

Something else to take into consideration is what your storage needs are. Depending on what you’re looking for, different kinds of storage have their own advantages and disadvantages that need to be taken into account based on your personal situation. For example, drive-up storage containers make it a lot simpler to put things in and take them out of the car. However, indoor units come with temperature control so items inside are better protected from drastic changes in weather conditions.

Visit Defender Self Storage in Ohio or Pennsylvania to start getting your items organized today. With two convenient locations, in Lorain, OH and in Penn Hills, PA, Defender Self Storage is your first choice for affordable storage units in the northeast area of the US. Our two storage facilities offer a variety of storage features for any renter’s needs. Read more about our storage facility’s specific features, and use our storage calculator to figure out what size storage unit you should rent.  

Packing and Moving

Packing Tips for Your Boxes 

1. Prep Before Packing

To obtain the greatest possible outcome when storing your stuff, take care of them as you’re packing them away. Items that are delicate will need more padding to keep them safe throughout transport. Pick up packing and moving supplies at Defender Self Storage today! And while you are there, talk with our storage experts to clear up any additional questions you may have before you start renting storage—also check our Self Storage FAQ to see if your question can be answered instantly! It is important to understand the rules and expectations before renting storage.

2. General Packing Rule: Heavy on the Bottom, Light on Top

As you pack your boxes and storage container, keep this same advice in mind. As a basic guideline, start with heavy, big things as a basis and add lighter ones on top. This will keep your boxes from breaking down under the strain of the pressure within and around them.

3. Clean & Cover

To avoid product damage when returning them, clean and preserve your items before you store them long-term. Things like appliances, tools, and electronics should be covered to prevent dust buildup. Before storing, also get rid of germs and water droplets to minimize potential smells or wear over time.

4. Pack Air-Tight to Keep Out Moisture & Pests

Another way to ward off damage is to pack with air-tight containers. Deter bugs and moisture-related damage from step one. Some items that would especially benefit from being packed in airtight containers include antiques, clothing, electronics, and documents.

Organizing Garage

Packing Tips for Your Storage Unit 

1. Create an Organized Layout

Self-storage facilities are useful in organizing your life. The greatest approach to packing your storage unit is to take a step-by-step approach. Leave space down the center of your storage container so you can access things in all corners more easily. Then, as part of a strategy to locate similar products faster later, store similar things together, such as seasonal clothing or kitchen gadgets. Keep your most essential belongings close to the entrance for quick retrieval.

2. Utilize Your Entire Storage Space

You are paying for your storage rental, so make the most of the space. If you are storing a lot of items, you may want to consider using shelving for organization and to stack higher in the space. 

3. Don’t Store Perishables

So what can’t you store? Perishables like food will go bad quickly, and when they do, they will begin to attract pests. It is best to avoid this altogether by storing these items in your everyday storage space in your home or business. You also cannot store dangerous, flammable items or money. Check out a more complete list from Move.org. 

Garage Storage

Vehicle Storage Tips 

Long-term storage of a vehicle can save you a lot of space on your property, but it is not as simple as dropping it off and leaving it. Vehicles of all sizes require additional care to give it a better chance of running as smoothly as possible when you need it again. Get its oil changed if you are storing long-term, top off the gas tank to prevent moisture build-up, and add a fuel stabilizer. Then, clean it inside and out—any dirt there will only accumulate over time. Follow more of Edmund’s vehicle storage tips.  

 

Defender Self Storage in OH and PA

Now that you have learned some helpful self storage tips, look to Defender Self Storage in OH and PA for all of your storage needs. At our storage company, we move mountains to make sure your experience is seamless! Our highly-trained experts will guide and support you through every step of the process so that you can get settled in your new place as quickly as possible. Give us a visit today or reserve one of our online storage units now!
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