Storage

Boat Storage Tips & Tricks

In the United States, it’s estimated that one out of every ten households owns a boat. If you happen to be one of these households, you know the truth. You know how much fun one of these recreational vehicles can offer. However, you may also know that boat storage can be a struggle. Especially since preparation is a crucial step in doing it right. If you’d like to streamline the process so you do things quickly yet properly. Then the tips and advice below can help.

Why Is Proper Boat Storage Important?

Without proper storage, a boat can easily experience rust. Or mildew and even tarnish to the exterior as well as important parts of the interior. Proper storage can also help keep this recreational vehicle safe from inclement weather conditions. Including hurricanes that can cause excessive damage or even total the boat out. This can save you a considerable amount of money over the time you own the boat. it will also help keep it looking like new for longer. A good rule of thumb is to learn how to store your boat before you ever buy it. This is in order to make sure you keep this investment in good shape.

Tip 1: Always Clean Before Storing

Boats should always be clean both inside and outside before placing them into a storage area when the season is over. Leaving a boat dirty is very likely to result in rust. And can even mean the paint job damage in a few short months. Once you’ve wash the exterior, you’ll want to apply a fresh coat of wax. This is just to make sure and protect the paint. On the interior, you’ll want to condition leather seats and vacuum to get rid of any dirt and dust.

Tip 2: Invest in a Good Quality Cover

Even if your boat is going into a storage unit, a cover will help keep dust, bugs. As well as other debris will not be touching your investment. The heavy-duty canvas tend to be the best. Although the price of these will be more when you compare them to a lower grade materials. Additionally, you may want to look for one that is waterproof so it can provide additional protection to your investment.

Tip 3: Fill the Tank Up

Many owners think that it’s okay to store their boat with any amount of fuel that’s left after the last expedition of the season. However, this can cause corrosion due to condensation. This can leave you with some damage. Especially when it comes time to use the boat again. To avoid this, you’ll want to fill the gas tank to the top before storing for the end of the season. You should also pour in some fuel additive. This will help prevent sludge and carbon from building up over the next few months.

Tip 4: Change the Oil

Changing the oil on your boat isn’t something that should only be done before you take it out on the water. It’s important to also do this before you store in order to avoid carbon from building up inside of the engine. For the small amount of time it takes to do this task, it’s well worth the benefits it has to offer. In fact, a quick oil change can save you hundreds to even thousands of dollars in damage in the long run.

Tip 5: Address the Battery

The engine of your boat is one of the most expensive and important parts of it overall. For this reason, it’s important to protect it when you put your boat into storage. To do so, either disconnect your battery or connect it to a trickle charger.

Tip 6: Maintain the Engine

It’s crucial to flush your engine with fresh water before storage in order to prevent saltwater corrosion. Additionally, it’s recommended to run antifreeze through the water in order to prevent freezing in areas that experience lower temperatures during the winter.

Where Should You Store Your Boat?

Once you go through all of the steps that are necessary to prepare your boat for storage, it will be time to decide where you should store it. This is an important decision. Storage option you choose will determine how to protect your investment. Especially during the several months that it is out of use. In most situations, you can either choose outdoors or indoors. Below you’ll find more information for both options.

Should I Store the Boat Outside?

Storing your boat outside is always an option if you’re tight on space in your garage. However, even with a high-quality cover over the exterior, this can result in damage to your investment. This is true no matter what climate you live in. Both hot and cold weather can take their toll on a boat over the course of the off-season. people typically do not recommend the outdoor storage. Especially if you have a relatively new boat that you want to keep in good shape for many years to come.

Should I Store the Boat Inside?

Indoor storage is hands down the best option for any type of boat. this is because it helps protect it from the sun, rain, wind, cold, heat, and humidity. However, not all indoor spaces are equal to one another. While a garage provides adequate cover, it is very unlikely to be climate controlled. If you want the best protection, then an indoor storage unit is going to be the best route to go. With this, you will have a dedicated space. A space where your boat is protected on all sides from the weather that’s going on outside.

An additional benefit of renting a storage space is the fact that it will be more secure than it would be elsewhere. You will be the only one who has a key and there will be less traffic than there would be outside of a garage. However, you should still make it a priority to check on your boat often. Perhaps once per week until you’re ready to take it out for the next season. Since the boat will likely sit on a trailer while it’s in storage, make sure to check the tires often as well. In fact, most experts recommend rotating those tires monthly in order to keep them inflated and in good shape for the season to come.

Any storage need

While renting a storage unit is an additional cost, it’s one that will give you peace of mind that your boat is being protected. Since it’s very likely that you invested quite a bit of money in this, the last thing you want to do is risk it being damaged when it’s not in use. A storage unit overcomes this risk and helps keep things in good shape for the future. When it’s time to remove it for the next season, all you’ll have to do is haul the boat away and close the unit until it’s time to store once again.

While Box-n-Go cannot store boats, we are here here to provide storage for most any other need you may have. Please feel free to contact us at 1-877-269-6461 should you have any storage and moving needs.

How to Move or Pack with an Aging-Elderly Parent

We all get to that point in life when we need to downsize and live in a place suited to our needs. This can be a particularly difficult transition, though. Moving an elderly parent is not easy. No one wants to lose their home and possessions due to declining health and the ability to take care of themselves.

When this happens to your parents, you have to help them. You will go through a unique experience that almost everyone moving their parent goes through. There may be stubbornness, frustration (on both ends), and even some fond memories. Before you get in over your head, here are some tips to help you move and pack your elderly parents.

Moving an Elderly Parent – Know When to Move

There is a lot of discussion as to when it’s time for your parents to move into an assisted living facility. Many people stay self-sufficient (or at least appear that way), and others have health conditions that make the change mandatory. If you’re not entirely sure if it’s time, here are some things to consider:

– Has your parent injured themselves or fallen recently?
– Do your parents have trouble maintaining their home and keeping it clean?
– Are your parents able to keep themselves clean?
– Do your parents get confused easily or show signs of dementia?
– Are your parents in bad health?

If the answer to any of these questions is yes, than it’s a good time to start thinking about assisted living.

Make it Sound Good

To make your parents excited about the move, you really have to have a positive perspective about the place they will be moving to. Highlight all of the positive attributes of their new home. Many places offer social advantages, help cleaning, no cooking, and trips to the places that your parents will want to go. When you make the new home sound amazing, they may actually start to believe it, too.

Moving an Elderly Parent – Be Understanding

Going into this next part of life is extremely difficult, and you need to be understanding of this when you talk to your parents. Be patient. Speak in an understanding tone without being condescending. Also, be willing to listen. As we get older, it can feel like no one listens to us anymore. Do your best to make them feel heard.

Let Them Make Decisions

Part of allowing your elderly parents to feel heard is to let them make decisions. Ask their opinion. It is their life, after all.
Sometimes, the decisions need a little guiding. For those of us with children, think about asking your child if they want to take a shower before or after story time. Sure, they thought they had a choice in the matter, but, in reality, they were being told that they have to take a bath. You can use this same method when it comes to helping your parents make difficult decisions. If they don’t want to go to any assisted living facility, give them options to let them feel like they are at least picking which one they will go to.

Moving an Elderly Parent – Managing the Stuff

Getting an elderly parent to throw out their possessions is absolutely impossible! Here are a couple of tips specifically for this part of the process.

1. Give stuff to the people that they love. Or sell it.

Your loved one worked their entire life for the items that they have. They don’t want these items to go unused. One of the best ways to make them feel better about getting rid of their stuff is to give it to someone they love. If it goes to a child, grandchild, cousin, or friend, they feel like their item was put to good use.
If no one needs or wants the items that can’t come with, try selling the stuff! Run a garage sale or a yard sale. If a family member or friend can’t use it, at least you might be able to make some money from it.

2. Put it in storage

Your parents won’t be able to get rid of all of their stuff before moving. For that reason, it’s a good idea to get a storage unit for the things that they still want but don’t have room for anymore.

Before buying a storage unit, take an inventory of everything you will have in there to help you pick the right size unit. You’ll also have to consider if any of the items need to be stored in a special way. Books, paintings, and other collectables may have certain temperature or humidity requirements when stored to maintain their value.

3. Force them to throw away the garbage

Some of our parents hold onto stuff that is broken or stained. They may think that they will eventually fix it and use it again. The fact of the matter is that probably isn’t true. It’s a good idea to be realistic and just throw out the things that you can’t donate to charity because it’s not in good enough condition.

Moving an Elderly Parent – Do the Work

Elderly parents aren’t especially strong. They won’t be able to do a lot of the packing and moving themselves. For that reason, step up to help by moving the important things and taking control when the movers come.

If possible, it’s a good idea to complete the move without your parents around. While it is their stuff, they might be more in the way of the movers than anything else. Get clear instructions on what should be packed and how it should be packed. Hopefully, you can take their place during the move.

Follow-Up

One of the most important parts of moving your elderly parents is what happens after the fact. Be sure to check in on them after the move to ensure that they are settling in okay. It will also help your parents get more accustomed to the new place if they see someone familiar on a regular basis. Call and check in as often as possible and be sure to always meet up for the holidays.

The golden years are a time for someone to relax and be as comfortable as possible. There may be some downsides to this part of life, but it’s best to respect it the way it deserves to be respected.

Your parents will need help during this time. However, you may get frustrated when your help is greeted with stubbornness. Do your best to understand what your parents are going through and help make them the most comfortable life possible. You want your parents to enjoy their old age. Listen to what they want and do your best to provide it. Just throw out the unnecessary stuff along the way.

Box-n-Go – A Wealth of Storage Options in One

While there might be many moving and storage solutions to choose from, temporary self-storage remains one of the most flexible, convenient and affordable options. It’s a storage solution that revolves around you that is completely tailored to suit your needs and which puts you in total control of your storage. Choose whether your container moves with you or remains stored in a safe and secure storage facility. Subsequently, your keepsakes get transported upon your request.

At Box-n-Go, we offer temporary storage solutions you need when and where you need it, without the fuss often associated with storage companies. Our storage units are secure and where you need them for easy access. Make moving a breeze. Call Box-n-Go today for more of our temporary storage solutions. Take advantage of our load once, unload once storage innovation.

Can You Share a Storage Unit With a Friend

A self-storage units are a wonderful and convenient way of keeping the precious things you don’t have room for at home safe. However, you may not have enough items to fill up a unit. At least enough to justify the cost. In this case, sharing a storage unit, and the cost, with a friend is a possible solution. Still, like having a roommate, there are some things you need to take into account. Just to be sure the sharing process goes smoothly.

Researching the Best Storage Solution

If you plan to share a storage unit with a friend, it is crucial for you and your friend to determine how many things each of you needs to store. How much space each of you needs for those items. This will guarantee you are choosing the right sized self-storage unit. And are neither renting a unit that is too small. Nor paying more rent than you need to for a unit that is larger than you require. To calculate this, you and your friend will have to decide what items you are planning on storing and the volume of the items. Be as precise as possible, using a height x width x depth formula to determine the total area needed.

You must also decide how the rent will be shared. Splitting the rent equally make sense if you will both be sharing the space equally. However, if one of you just has a few boxes and the other has a motorcycle, camping gear and SCUBA equipment. The person using the most space should probably pay a higher percentage of the rent.

Call Around

Finally, to find the best deal on a storage unit, take your time and call around to all the storage facilities in your immediate area. Inquire what the cost is for the size unit you need at each facility. Don’t fall into the trap of being willing to drive an extra five to 10 miles to save $5 a month on rent. You may save a few dollars if you only visit your unit once every couple of months. But if you will be making regular trips to your shed any savings will be eaten up on fuel and travel time.

Respecting Each Other

While sharing a storage unit with a friend obviously doesn’t require the same level of tolerance as having a roommate. You must both respect each others portion on the storage unit as well as the other’s belongings. Sharing a storage unit will require tolerance and communication from both sides. When sharing a storage unit with a friend, bear in mind that you and your friend both have a preconceived idea of what you want your unit to be like.

Maybe one of you has a vision of a clean and neatly-arranged storage unit with shelves and hooks on the ceiling to keep everything its proper place and the other couldn’t care less about order. This will become a huge problem down the road if you don’t talk about it upfront. Lack of communication, and a willingness to compromise, can be even more of a problem if more than two people are sharing a unit.

Talk it Through

Sit down and sketch out a diagram on where everything will be stored. Try to arrange things so the belongings of one do not get in the way of the other any more than absolutely necessary. Again, this is even more important if more than two are sharing a unit. Once you have the space worked out and your belongings stored in the unit, let your storage roomy use their part of the space as they see fit. There is no need to interfere with how your friend keeps their things. Provided the unit is kept clean and you are able to reach your belongings.

Identifying Security Issues

It is important to identify any potential security problems when looking for a storage facility. As theft can be a big problem at non-secured facilities, it is important to rent a unit that has at least the basic security features of a fence and gate. Ideally, a well-secured facility will have the following security measures in place:

A fence with a gated entry that is locked during non-business hours. Ideally, access will be controlled with a PIN pad that will grant tenets 24-hour access. If the facility has hours the gate is closed, you must consider if the hours the gate is open will be convenient for you and your friend.
A surveillance camera system that has full coverage of the facility.
Proper fire-control procedures.

Create a Policy for Key Holders

You will want to make certain that only the people who have access to keys are the people you are sharing the unit with. The best way to accomplish this is to make a list of everyone who has a right to have a key and get your friend(s) to stick to it. This really should be a contingency for sharing a unit. This way, if things magically begin to disappear, you will know who to ask questions of.

Solving the Rental-Agreement Challenge

Of course, sharing a place for your treasured belongings with a friend does require a bit of trust. Even though you and your friend are sharing the storage unit, typically only one person will be listed on the rental agreement. When deciding who will have this dubious honor, understand the situation. Even though the two of you will be splitting the costs, the person named on the agreement is the party who is legally responsible for making the rental payments. This means keeping track of the rental due date will be the responsibility of the person named in the contract.

Irrespective of whose name is on the rental agreement, this doesn’t prevent you from having your own personal contract with your friend. Everyone who will be sharing in the financial cost of the storage unit should agree to their share of the unit’s rent in writing. If one of you will need more space, structure your agreemnt accordingly. That person will accordingly pay a higher percentage of the rent. Spell it out in the personal agreement. Conversations about financial responsibilities can be a bit awkward. You will be saving yourself a lot of headache in the long run. Should something unpleasant happens down the road.

Insurance

Storage facilities will not insure their tenets belongings. Check to see if your homeowners or rental policy will cover the items you store off premise. If not, check with the facility to see if they have an insurance provider. If neither of those options are viable, consider splitting the cost of a separate policy with your friend.

Paying On-Time

There are risks associated with moving everything into storage. Your possessions may become a reality star in storage unit auctions reality TV! One way to avoid any of this is pay your rent on-time. Regardless if you are using the mobile units from Box-n-Go Storage or any other company.

We hope the above advise will help you in your endeavor. Using mobile units helps move your belongings without all shuttling back and forth is. It is the easiest and the most convenient way to move and store. Should you need help with reservations, or have any questions, please do not hesitate to call Box-n-Go at 1-877-269-6461.

What’s the Minimum Amount of Time to Rent a Storage Unit

So, you’ve got a need for a storage unit but don’t need it long-term. Clearly you need a short term storage. What’s the shortest time you can rent from a company? Are there storage unit facilities with shorter contracts to accommodate people like you who don’t desire to rent for years? Knowing this information in advance saves you time and money by allowing you to narrow your search based on the minimum length of time a specific company’s storage unit can be rented.

A Quick and Easy Guide to Short Term Storage Unit Companies and Contracts

Refer to this guide to different storage unit companies and the duration of contracts that they have for their customers. That way, you can make an informed decision concerning which option to go with based on your household’s unique needs. If you want extra storage while you transition from one home to the next, it doesn’t make sense to sign a lengthy contract. Reading this guide helps you avoid unnecessary costs by finding the company that offers exactly what you need when you need it most.

U-Haul

Among the most appealing things about renting a storage unit from U-Haul is that there is no contract. You can rent a unit for however long you need to without penalty. If you need to rent on a month-by-month basis, you can.

U-Haul facilities can be found throughout the United States, too, making it easy to locate one in your area. The company is established and not one that you’ll need to worry about folding and taking your belongings with them as they do. Your possessions are protected despite not being under contract which is a relief.

Public Storage

The company offers month-to-month storage unit options with no deposit required. A unit is free to reserve, too. Making it a wise choice, if there is a Public Storage facility in the area. You won’t be out any additional money when renting from this company, which has locations throughout almost all of the 50 states. The company offers various sizes of storage units, too, making it easy to determine which is right for your belongings. Options include self storage, business storage, and vehicle storage. You can decide which is right for you based on price.

Extra Space Storage

You can reserve a storage unit up to 14 days in advance with this company. Extra Space Storage offers free reservations and month-to-month contracts as a way of making things easier on you. Storage units of various sizes are available, too, for business and personal possessions. A handy locator map on the company’s website allows you to see if there are storage units available in the area you live or work in. You’re able to narrow the search criteria to include climate control units, RV/Boat storage, and drive-up access. You’re also able to search for small, medium, and large units in your state.

CubeSmart Self Storage

US residents find this company’s month-to-month lease options very appealing. Not only are units climate friendly, they also come with packing supplies inside of them. There is also 24-hour surveillance protecting your belongings from loss and theft. CubeSmart offers a variety of units to choose from, too, making it easy to keep the items from your business or home safe while you’re away. You can choose vehicle storage to keep your spare car or RV protected from the elements or military storage for your household items while you’re deployed.

Life Storage

Another company that offers flexible short-term unit leases, Life Storage has storage units in various sizes and locations throughout the United States. With a customer service number that has available agents answering phones 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, it’s easy to request additional information about the company and its available units. Residents, businesses, and people wanting to store vehicles find the company’s options more than adequate. They also appreciate the packing supplies and boxes that are available at most locations. This makes storing possessions much easier. Website alerts and reminders help you remember when your payment is due so that you never forget to pay your month-to-month lease.

Box-n-Go Storage

Box-n-Go offers most appealing array of storage options. You can store on month-to month, no commitment arrangement. Or sign up for a term commitment with a deeply discounted rent. You can store for as little as one day if you want to, although there is a minimum rent payment. If you stay longer than one month, your rent will be prorated upon move out and unused part of it will be refunded. This is a very rare feature, if you compare to most other storage facilities. In addition to self-storage options, Box-n-Go offers many loading and full service storage options, that may be of interest.

Among the most appealing options offered, is a storage unit delivery to your home or business. The unit can stay with you while you are loading, or while you need storage. This eliminates truck rentals and driving. This also simplifies the loading and reduces the handling by 50%.

Independent Short Term Storage Facility Companies

There may be facilities in your area that are locally-owned. The best way to learn their terms and conditions concerning rentals is by calling them or visiting their location in person. That way, you can inquire about contracts, minimum lengths of rentals, and penalties for breaking a contract. Checking the reputation of such facility is key as it helps you avoid any legalities that you’d rather not be bothered with in the future. You’ll find information about the business online, by reading reviews left for the company. Also you can accomplish that by asking people you know their thoughts about the storage unit facility. They’ll provide you with honest advice about whether a company is worth doing business with or not.

Make sure to read the fine print before signing any contract of any length. That way, you’re aware of what the cancellation policies are if the company enforces them. Most like to be notified as far in advance as possible. So they’re able to rent the unit out quickly after it has been emptied.

Select a Facility Based on the Short Term Storage Contract That It Offers

Now that you’ve had time to compare the different storage unit companies in your area, you’ll be able to determine which offers the contract that you need. You’ll be able to rent for weeks or months with greater ease without getting tied up with a long-term contract. That way, if you move away from the area, you’re not paying for a storage unit that you no longer have items in.

It’s always best to get any length of contract in writing. That way, you’re able to get the protection and service that you deserve at the time you rent the unit. Without any worries. Keeping the document in a safe place for future reference is ideal. Because you may need to refer back to it for clarification.

Give Box-n-Go a Try

Box-n-Go is a local portable storage units provide. We offer both short term storage as well as long term storage deals. You choose what works best for you. Our flexible systems offers a delivery of your short term storage unit to your location. No need to rent a truck. Access is at ground level. Call Box-n-Go at 1-877-269-6461 to learn more.

Common Things You Should Not Store or Do in a Storage Unit

A storage unit can be a lifesaver for people facing a life transition. Also for folks who need more space in their home. Or for businesses that need a place for supplies and equipment. In all of those cases, storage facilities can handle most things that you want to keep there. However, there are limits to how you can use your storage unit. Here are some common things that are prohibited from storage.

Things You Shouldn’t Do in a Storage Unit

You should not live in the unit. If you live in a city where rent is expensive, you may want to try to live in your storage unit. In a place like Washington DC where the average apartment monthly rental is $2263, living in a 10′ x 11′ storage for $222 may seem like a great way to save a couple of grand every month. It isn’t. Living in your unit isn’t just against the rules you agreed to when you signed the storage rental agreement, it’s against the law.

Wherever you are, there are building codes for places where people live in. Since storage facilities are not residences, storage units don’t meet the building code standard for human habitation. That’s what makes living your unit illegal. You may now think that building codes are made to keep you out of a really cheap place to live. These regulations actually are for your safety. They say a legal residence must have things like plumbing, ventilation, and two means of egress. Storage units don’t meet these standards. You will be uncomfortable and in potential danger if you try to live one.

Still you may believe that you are stealthy enough to live undetected in a storage unit. You’re wrong. Every facility has measures to reveal if someone is living there. For example, some facilities monitor security cameras while others review the use of entry and exit codes. When the storage facility manager realizes you are living in the unit, you will be removed along with your stuff. If you’re living in the unit with your children, you could be facing more trouble than eviction. Criminal charges are the real risks in this situation.

You should not smoke or cook in your unit.

Smoking and cooking in your unit are fire hazards. Were you to cause a fire, you would be liable for both injuries and any property loss.

You should not operate a business from your unit.

Using a storage unit as the place where you conduct your business is usually against storage facility policy. It’s not to prevent you from getting cheap commercial rent. It’s to protect you, your employees, and your customers from the same dangers that are there if you were living in a storage unit. Fortunately, some facilities have appropriate office space that you can rent. Also it’s fine to store your business supplies and equipment in a unit.

You should not run appliances in your unit.

Storage facilities don’t have a problem with storing appliances, but running appliances is not allowed. Most appliances cannot be operated safely in a storage unit.

You should not wire a unit.

The time you spent online looking up how to run electricity to your storage unit was wasted. The storage facility will notice the increased electricity usage. Then you and your stuff will get the boot.

You should not kennel your pets in storage.

Live animals are prohibited in storage. Storage facilities are not a safe place for animals. Putting animals in storage could subject you to a criminal charge of animal cruelty.

Stuff You Shouldn’t Stash in a Storage Unit

Perishable Food.

While canned goods are usually fine to put in storage, all perishable food, including pet food, is prohibited. Not only would stored perishable food smell and spoil, it also attracts bugs and rodents. You don’t want those critters in your stuff and neither do the folks in the units near yours.

Cash.

Your locked storage unit is very secure, however, keeping cash is storage is just not smart. If the cash were to go missing, you have no remedy. Even if you’ve insured your stored stuff, the insurance policy won’t reimburse your cash.

Things Not To Pack Inside Your Storage Unit

Fine Art.

There’s a reason not to store fine artwork in addition to the obvious potential for theft. Unless the unit is climate friendly, storage units can experience extreme heat and cold. These extreme temperatures could damage your art.

Anything Irreplaceable.

Anything that is irreplaceable, even if you have the funds, should not be in your storage unit. Some examples are family heirlooms and valuable jewelry. Like art, these items could be also be damaged by extreme temperatures. Additionally, you don’t want to find yourself in the same situation as the daughters of Malcolm X. They had to hire a lawyer to retrieve their father’s papers which had been sold in an auction because they were part of the contents of a storage unit that wasn’t current on its rent.

Items Prohibited for Storage – Chemicals, Hazardous Waste, and Explosives.

Materials that are too dangerous to store in your home or business also pose too much of a hazard to keep in storage. Any material that is inherently flammable, toxic, or explosive should never be placed in storage. Here are examples of common hazardous materials that don’t belong in storage:

Fireworks
Gasoline
Fertilizer
Kerosene
Ammunition
Propane
Paint
Paint thinner
Cleaners
Motor oil
Acid
Grease
Illegal Drugs

Firearms.

As you just saw, ammunition is always prohibited as an explosive, but what about your guns? In some states, it is illegal to keep firearms in a storage unit. Even if having unloaded firearms in storage isn’t breaking the law in your area, most storage facilities still don’t allow them because of their inherent danger.

Plants.

Your pots, garden tools, water hose, and other plant paraphernalia are welcome, but plants themselves are a no-no. Your storage unit doesn’t provide light and water your plants need to live. Storage facilities don’t want plants in their units due to their potential to attract vermin.

Stolen Goods.

You know they shouldn’t be in your possession anyway. The storage facility does not want to become a part of your criminal activity.

Vinyl Records.

Unless your unit is climate friendly, extreme heat can cause your records to warp, which makes them unplayable.

Store with Box-n-Go

While Box-n-Go storage is no different from any other storage when it comes to prohibited items, our consultants may help you understand the issues. When it comes to storage, there is no easier way to store than the portable storage. this is what Box-n-Go does. Simply call us at 1-877-269-6461 and we will be happy to help.

What is a Climate Controlled Storage and is it Needed?

Because of the diversity in climates in different geographical locations, storing specific items in traditional storage units may not be a good idea. Storage units that are not climate friendly can have various levels of moisture inside. Also, they can be subject to significant temperature changes, as the weather outdoor fluctuates. Climate friendly and controlled storage units provide a safe stable area to store items that are sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity. Storage units that are breathable (often referred to as climate friendly) allow the environment inside the unit to equalize with what’s outside. This eliminates the condensation inside the unit. Which is a major culprit when it comes to the climate control.

Benefits of climate friendly storage

What are other benefits to climate friendly storage units aside from the stable temperature and humidity levels year round?

There are additional benefits besides the protection from high humidity levels and extreme temperature changes to having a climate friendly storage unit. Traditional storage units often get stuffy with stale air. So you want to air them out out occasionally. This will help keep them from accumulating odors and the like in the items in the unit. With a climate friendly unit you do not have to worry about doing this. Because the air quality in these units is much better due to the constant circulation of air in the unit. When facility offers additional temperature controls it works even better. Regulation of temperature and humidity levels require systems that have to constantly circulate the air resulting in cleaner air then what you would find in a standard storage unit.

With climate friendly units like Box-n-Go, the air inside the unit will never get stuffy. Nor will the moisture accumulate inside, causing damages to your belongings.

Protection against the Disasters

Furthermore, climate friendly units are usually inside a building structure that has insulation and impenetrable floors, roofs, and walls. Your unit is safe to a higher degree against flooding and other natural disasters. Traditional storage units are susceptible to water accumulation when there is flooding, dust and debris. When there are extremely dry conditions or dust storms they may be susceptible to being made into a nice home for various insects. Also sometimes small animals. When you have a climate friendly unit, you have peace of mind that none of these issues will plague your unit.

Box-n-Go storage units, as an example, are stored inside the warehouse, which is a commercial grade, insulated building. In addition, the floor of the warehouse is elevated off the ground. This builds in added protection in case of flooding.

Indoor Storage

Another obvious advantage to a climate friendly unit is the convenience of being inside of a building when accessing, organizing, loading, and unloading your items. In some areas this does not always apply. But completing these tasks outdoors in freezing temperatures, pouring down rain and lightening, or temperatures that are hotter then your shower water. This can be an extremely uncomfortable and daunting task. When you have a climate friendly unit you do not have to worry about the weather conditions when you go to check on your belongings or move things in and out.

Reducing Carbon Footprint:

One significant but often overlooked benefit of climate-friendly storage units is their positive impact on reducing carbon footprints. Traditional storage facilities that rely heavily on energy-consuming temperature control systems contribute to higher greenhouse gas emissions, adding to the overall carbon footprint. In contrast, climate-friendly units, such as those offered by Box-n-Go, employ more energy-efficient practices, resulting in reduced energy consumption and subsequently lowering their carbon emissions. By choosing climate-friendly storage options, individuals can take a step towards sustainability and environmental responsibility, aligning with the mission of organizations that aim to offset carbon emissions and promote eco-friendly solutions. Embracing environmentally conscious practices not only benefits personal belongings but also contributes to the collective effort in safeguarding the planet for future generations.

Climate Controlled Storage Cost

Does a climate friendly storage unit cost more money then a normal storage unit?

On average, climate friendly storage units cost approximately 15% more on your monthly storage unit cost. Depending on the location and market of the area. The reason for this is due to the extra of the strict maintenance protocol of most climate friendly units. Commercial sized HVAC systems, heating systems, and dehumidifiers are often constantly running. Hence using electricity. In addition, the building in which your unit is contained needs ventilation. Also insulation at all times, which requires regular maintenance and repairs on these components. An increase of 15% in monthly cost is just spare change compared to the cost of properly maintaining blocks of climate friendly storage units.

If you choose Box-n-Go climate friendly units, you will not be faced with the increased storage cost to get the benefits of constant temperature and no humidity inside your unit.

What belongings need climate control?

Do I even have items that would need this kind of controlled climate that I am going to be putting in storage? What will happen to them in standard storage units?

Items that require this type of special care are usually fragile antiques and novelties. However many other types of items also require a stable climate. There are obvious things such as food items or medications that need this type of protection. But there are other items that need a the proper environment. So the reason for doing so are not so obvious. If you plan on storing any amount of metal items in your storage unit, you want to keep in mind the way that different types of metals respond to high moisture levels. That shiny silver will quickly morph into a charcoal like black color. Iron items will rust into a red orange disintegrated mess. Items containing a large amount of lead will morph into a chalky white mess. Your glimmering copper things will turn into a rough textured hue of green.

Any type of artwork paper items, such as photos, magazines, any kind of books, can discolor with extreme changes in temperature. Paper items and artwork also have a great tendency to change sizes (expanding or shrinking) in extreme temperature fluctuations. These items also will make a comfy nurturing home for mildew, mold. Also other fungus type growths in high humidity conditions. Bedding, cloth covered furniture, clothes, toys, quilts, and blankets will also grow fungi. This is like mildew and mold in humidity levels above 35% for long periods of time.

Electronics and Climate Control

If you plan on storing electronic items in your storage unit, keep in mind that electronics with metal parts may disintegrate in high moisture environment. Electronic components can also grow mold and mildew. Moisture can also destroy electronic motherboards and electrical circuits. Rendering the item inoperable. Even when storing electronics in a climate friendly unit, it is best to make sure they are in an airtight container off the ground. Also, using packets of silica in the boxes with them will help keep moisture away. Keep the items such as vinyl records, optical discs, films and any type of tapes and cassettes in climate friendly units. This is due to the damage that moisture and light exposure may cause to them. This also includes many standard household appliances containing metal.

Storing Furniture and Antiques

Antique wood objects, wood furniture, and wooden instruments like pianos and guitars should not be in standard units. Units with fluctuations in humidity and temperature. Much like paper items and artwork, wood items will change size with temperature. Expanding in warm conditions and contracting in cooler climates. Moderate to high moisture levels are detrimental to wood. Wood easily rots and disintegrates in moist environments for extended periods of time. Thoroughly cleaning and sealing wooden items with oil or sealants can help combat issues with wood associated with climate. Items made or upholstered with leather can damage easily with high moisture levels and often costly to repair.

Are there ways to protect these sensitive items if I do want to place them in a traditional storage unit?

Yes, there are ways to protect things that are placed in a standard unit. Ones that have exposure to elements that climate friendly units do not. However, it is advisable using heavy duty water and air tight containers to hold all of your items. Also using plastic wrap, blankets, and tarps to insulate larger items. Unfortunately, this can be extremely time consuming and expensive.

If you were to use these methods to protect your items from temperature fluctuations, moisture levels, insect invasions, dust and debris, check your costs first. You will most likely end up spending more money on the supplies to do so. Not accounting for the hours of your time that you wouldn’t be spending otherwise. Imagine what would happen if you were to shell out the extra few dollars a month it costs to have a storage unit that is climate friendly or climate friendly. It is still wise to strategically place and protect items in climate friendly units. But not anywhere near the degree of protection that is needed for these sensitive items to stay in a standard unit. Also, some areas, like Southern California, have a very dry climate. As such, only temperature fluctuations are of a concern there.

I thought my items are insured from damage when I place them into any storage unit facility, why would I need a climate friendly unit?

The reality is, if you plan to put items that hold a significant monetary or sentimental value to you in storage, you must protect them. The best way to ensure those items are protected from all the issues outlined above. This way is to use a climate friendly storage unit. Renting a storage unit is no different then when you rent out an apartment or home. The owner of such dwelling is responsible for the structure itself, but is not responsible for your precious contents.

Your unit itself is most likely going to be insured, but what you put in it is not. Many facilities do offer the option to add some type of protection plan to your contents of the unit. However often times this adds more to the monthly cost of the unit then using a climate friendly unit would add. You should consider the location of which the unit is. Because some locations can be more prone to severe storms, heavy winds, and flooding. While others can be more prone to dust storms, snow storms, and other natural disasters. The ones that even insurance doesn’t always cover. With a climate friendly unit, your belongings will always be inside of a building. That alone is more protection then a standard unit that has one or more walls (often the door) directly against the outdoor conditions.

Try Box-n-Go Storage

Box-n-Go is a portable storage provider servicing the Southern California. All Box-n-Go storage units are breathable. hence they all are climate friendly. So, if you need help with storage, please do not hesitate to call us at 1-877-269-6461