Self-storage is the ideal option for clearing out space around your home or business. While storing your items is one way to preserve them until you need them, it is important to know how to keep yourself and your items safe while they are in storage. As you prepare your items for storage, use these tips to ensure the safety of your property.
Pack Boxes Correctly
When you feel pressed for time, it is tempting to stuff as much as you can into boxes. However, it is important to make sure that each box you place in the storage unit is stable. Always place the heaviest items in the bottom of the box before placing the lighter objects on top.
If you notice extra space around an object, then fill the space with other materials. Towels, packing paper and other soft objects all make great filling material so that your boxes are less likely to topple over when they are stacked.
Avoid Making Stacks Too High
It is important to always choose the right size storage unit
for your needs. This way you won't feel like you have to stack your boxes into high stacks. Avoid making stacks that are taller than you are because they can fall on you and cause an injury. If necessary, use shelves to organize your boxes.
Store Frequently Used Items at the Front
The placement of your items also plays a role in your safety since frequently moving boxes leads to disorganization. Put any items that you expect to use often toward the front, and make clear aisles that you can walk through to get to the back. This prevents you from tripping and falling in the unit.
Use Caution When Moving Heavy Items
Back injuries are more likely to occur when you try to lift heavy boxes without assistance. Always lift heavy or bulky items with a partner, and practice safe lifting strategies such as positioning yourself so that your legs do more lifting than your back. It is also helpful to use tools such as dollies and lift straps to transport large items into your storage unit. When in doubt, choose the safe route by asking a professional mover for assistance.
Never Leave Animals in a Storage Unit
Animals do not belong in a storage unit, even if it is climate controlled because anything could happen to your animal while it is not supervised. If you need boarding for your animal, check with local kennels or find a pet sitter who can keep your favorite pet safe.
Prepare Lawn and Garden Equipment for Storage
Always drain fluids such as oil and gas from your lawn equipment before you put them into storage. By eliminating flammable liquids, you reduce the risk of fires, and your equipment will be less likely to experience corrosion that destroys its performance.
Ask for a List of Probihited Items
Storage units are designed to protect people's property, and one way the items are protected is by prohibiting certain items that can do harm to others. Ask for a list of things you are not allowed to store to make sure that you are in compliance. Typically, combustibles such as gasoline, kerosene and paint are prohibited.
Select Sturdy Locks for Your Unit
When it comes to protecting your property, you shouldn't use just any lock. Ideally, your unit should be secured with a disc style lock that makes it hard for someone else to cut or pry it open. A solid lock that requires a key also makes it impossible for someone to guess your code or password.
At All American Storage, we make protecting your property a priority. Contact us today to learn more about storage unit safety.
