Being Smart about Storage
Issue: Nov 2016
If you’re using a self storage unit or are considering renting one, you’ve already taken the first, smart step to better managing your personal belongings or business assets. At this point, you may be wondering how to make the most of this investment. Here are your commonly asked questions, answered!
Q: What can I keep in my self storage unit?
There are plenty of things that you can safely place in your self storage unit. Furniture, seasonal items like Christmas artificial trees and Chinese New Year decorations, toys and bulky items are all common items that find their way into our facilities. Of course, items like jewellery, cash and family heirlooms are best entrusted to a bank or kept in a safe. Artwork (such as paintings) and perishables (like rice, canned food and pet food) would also survive better in a temperature-controlled environment. You would also want to avoid storing flammable, explosive and other hazardous items including gas canisters, aerosol cans and fuel tanks to safeguard against accidents. As a rule of thumb, if it is illegal, dangerous or emits fumes, smells or odours, it is best kept somewhere else.
Q: Why is it important to follow these guidelines?
By doing so, you’re playing a huge role in helping to keep your own belongings and that of other customers safe. Although StorHub Self Storage also offers different insurance premiums against fire and theft, prevention is always better than cure. If you’re still unsure about what can go into your self storage unit, contact us! We’d be delighted to be of service.
Q: How can I care for my self storage unit?
As comfortable as your storage space may be, it isn’t home. That means you can’t live there, and neither can your pets! But it’s still a good idea to treat it with the same love and respect that you have for your own home. Damaging or defacing the floors, walls or doors could lead to penalties so make full use of the complimentary trolleys at our facilities to move your items quickly, safely and without leaving scratches.
Q: Any tips on helping me get organised?
Packing your items in boxes or securely wrapping them in plastic is a good way to fend off dust. Common moving and packing supplies like boxes, tape, bubble wrap and furniture covers are available at our onsite retail stores to make things hassle-free for you. When using boxes, remember to label them! This makes it so much easier to locate what you’re looking for. Better yet, create a checklist of all the items in your self storage unit so you never have to fumble your way through. You can also think about creating a go-to corner near the door. Place all the items that you are likely to retrieve soon or frequently there for easy access.
Q: How can I maximise space?
The ceiling is the limit in your self storage unit! You are welcome to make the most of out the available storage space by stacking your items higher—but please do so in a safe way. The last thing you want is an avalanche in your unit! You can bring in a standalone rack or shelving system to maximise space in an orderly way. For boxes, try laying a piece of plywood on top of each box. This helps to create a sturdier column that is less likely to collapse under its own weight. However, you might need to leave a ladder in the corner of your unit and enlist someone else’s help to retrieve your items safely.
Inspired by all the possibilities that a self storage unit can offer? Learn how StorHub Self Storage can help by clicking here.
ITEMS TO AVOID
- Firearms, explosives, weapons or ammunition.
- Hazardous, toxic or radioactive goods, biological agents and flammable materials and liquids. These present a serious danger to the facility, its personnel, other customers and your goods.
- Gas canisters (e.g. for barbeques or recreational vehicle use) and aerosol cans.
- Pollutants, contaminated goods, asbestos or other materials of a potentially dangerous nature.
- Cash or securities, coins, precious stones, jewelry, antiques or fine art unless specifically agreed with us in writing, in advance of storing such goods in the unit.
- Illegal substances, illegal items or goods illegally obtained.
- Birds, fish, animals or any other living creature.
- Food or perishable goods. Dry foods (like rice, flour, pet food etc.).
- Scented candles or ornaments made of edible ingredients (e.g. popcorn strings, cookie or play-dough ornaments).
- Waste or other items which do or could emit any fumes, smell or odour.
- Please ensure that the fuel tanks of any items that require fuel (e.g. generators, lawnmowers) are fully drained.
- Stoves, barbeques and other cooking appliances should be thoroughly cleaned so as not to attract pests. Refrigeration equipment should be defrosted and dry, and the door left open to allow air circulation and to prevent mould.
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