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Can You Live in a Storage Unit? The Honest Answer

A storage unit is a sealed metal box, not a home. It isn’t insulated, so it can reach life-threatening temperatures in the summer and become dangerously cold in the winter. There are no windows for fresh air, which means you could be breathing in dust, mold spores, or fumes from items stored nearby. Most importantly, these units lack smoke detectors, proper emergency exits, and often have doors that can only be locked from the outside, creating a serious risk of being trapped. These safety hazards are precisely why facilities are so strict and train their staff to recognize the signs someone is living in a storage unit to prevent a tragedy before it happens.

 

High housing costs in California have many people searching for alternative housing options that won’t break the bank. Some might even toy with the idea of converting a storage unit into a living space, given the affordability compared to conventional housing.

But can you live in a storage unit?

No matter how appealing it may seem to sidestep high rents, living in a storage unit is fraught with legal, safety, and ethical issues. From the lack of basic amenities like running water and electrical access to the straightforward violation of rental agreements, there are many risks.

Let’s explore why turning a storage unit into a living space is not just impractical but illegal.

 

What Is a Storage Unit? 

 

A storage unit is a rented space used primarily for temporarily storing items. It is part of a bigger complex known as storage facilities, which provide varying sizes of units tailored to different storage needs. These facilities prioritize security and accessibility, making certain that personal and business items are safely stored away until needed.

Typically, these units are not designed for residential use but serve several practical purposes. Before exploring the inappropriate uses of storage units, let’s understand their actual purposes:

 

  • Storing excess furniture during house remodeling.
  • Keeping seasonal decorations secure and out of the way.
  • Hosting business items during office relocation.
  • Parking vehicles securely, from family cars to RVs.
  • Safekeeping antique furniture and other valuable belongings.
  • Offering casual storage for miscellaneous items between moves.
  • Providing a temporary housing station for belongings during emergency situations.

 

Can I Live in a Storage Unit?

 

Simply put, no. Living in a storage unit breaches several housing, safety, and health regulations. These units lack basic amenities like running water, electricity, and climate control, which are essential for any comfortable living environment. Furthermore, storage unit rental agreements explicitly forbid using the space for residential purposes.

 

The Housing Crisis and the Temptation of Storage Living

With housing costs continuing to climb, it’s understandable why people are looking for creative solutions. The idea of using an affordable storage unit as a temporary home might seem tempting, especially when you’re feeling financial pressure. However, this idea quickly falls apart when you look at the reality. Living in a storage unit is not only against the law but also incredibly dangerous. These spaces aren’t built for human habitation and lack basic necessities like running water, toilets, or safe electrical wiring, leading to serious legal trouble and health risks.

Beyond the legal issues, the physical environment of a storage unit is unsafe. Most units have no ventilation or climate control, exposing anyone inside to extreme temperatures that could lead to heatstroke or hypothermia. They are not built to meet residential health and safety rules, which protect people from fire hazards and other dangers. Storage facilities are vigilant and will evict anyone found living in a unit, leaving them in an even more precarious situation. It’s a high-risk gamble that simply isn’t worth it.

How to Spot Someone Living in a Storage Unit?

 

Understanding how individuals might misuse storage units can help maintain the security and appropriate use of these facilities. Below are some indicators that you know someone is living there:

 

  • Unusual Activity: Frequent visits to a storage unit during irregular hours can signal illegal activity. Such behavior disrupts the typical calm of storage facilities, where access is usually limited and monitored.
  • Household Signs: When everyday items like cooking and beauty products block the pathways to storage unit doors, it often means the space is being used for more than just storage. This misuse can lead to safety and fire hazards, compromising the intended secure environment of the unit.
  • Noise: Hearing noises such as talking or TV sounds coming from a unit is unusual and indicative of atypical activity in storage facilities. These sounds can alert facility staff to check for inappropriate usage.
  • Garbage: An accumulation of trash, such as food wrappers or personal hygiene products, outside a unit is a strong indicator that someone is trying to live there. This not only creates sanitation issues but also violates storage unit rental agreements.
  • Security Concerns: Occupying a storage unit for a living can compromise the unit’s security measures, which are designed to protect belongings and not accommodate inhabitants. This misuse can lead to safety issues for the individual and other renters.

 

Recognizing these signs helps in taking appropriate actions to prevent illegal activities and ensure the safe and intended use of storage units. Such vigilance supports maintaining the facility’s security and operational standards.

 

Unusual Activity and Access Patterns

Most people visit their storage units during regular business hours to drop off or pick up items. It’s usually a quick in-and-out trip. So, when someone starts treating a storage facility like an apartment building with late-night entries and early-morning exits, it’s a major red flag. As one property management expert notes, “Frequent visits to a storage unit during irregular hours can signal illegal activity.” This kind of behavior is disruptive and goes against the operational norms of a secure facility, where monitored access is key to keeping everyone’s belongings safe.

Physical Clues Inside and Outside the Unit

One of the most obvious signs is the accumulation of domestic trash. Finding food wrappers, empty toiletry bottles, or other personal garbage near a unit is a clear giveaway. This not only creates sanitation problems but is a direct violation of the rental agreement. The inside of the unit can be just as telling. If you see “everyday items like cooking and beauty products block the pathways to storage unit doors, it often means the space is being used for more than just storage.” This setup is a serious fire hazard and compromises the safety of the entire facility.

Mail and Package Deliveries

A storage unit address is for the unit itself, not for personal mail. If a tenant starts having letters or packages delivered to the facility, it’s a strong indication they are attempting to establish residency. According to rental experts, you should be on the lookout if “the tenant receives mail or packages sent to the storage unit’s address.” This is a clear breach of contract, as storage facilities are not residential addresses and cannot be used as a legal mailing address. Legitimate options, like a P.O. box, are available for those who need an alternative place to receive mail.

Complaints from Other Tenants

Often, fellow renters are the first to notice when something is amiss. A quiet, secure environment is part of what you pay for with a storage unit. If other tenants begin to complain about “noise, strange activity, or disturbances” coming from a specific unit, it warrants investigation. Hearing conversations, music, or televisions is out of place. These reports are crucial for facility managers to address potential lease violations and ensure the facility remains a safe and peaceful place for everyone to store their property.

Reasons Why Living in a Storage Unit Is a Big NO!

 

While the cheap rent of a storage unit might appeal as a solution to housing insecurity, here are top reasons it should never be considered viable:

 

1. Legality

Living in a storage unit is strictly prohibited by law. No storage facility is legally equipped or zoned to permit residents to use storage units as living spaces. This adheres to strict building codes and zoning laws designed to protect safety and community standards.

 

Fines, Jail Time, and Other Penalties

Living in a storage unit isn’t just a breach of your rental agreement; it’s also illegal and comes with serious penalties. Across the country, state and local laws strictly prohibit using these spaces for habitation because they are not zoned for residential use. In a state like California, for example, getting caught could mean a fine of up to $1,000 and immediate eviction. The situation can escalate quickly, as you could even be arrested if you’re found sleeping in a unit. These rules aren’t arbitrary; they exist because storage facilities lack the fundamental safety features and basic amenities, like proper ventilation and plumbing, that are required for any legal residence.

The legal troubles don’t stop with eviction and fines. Beyond the certainty of being forced to leave, you could face more severe criminal charges and potential jail time, depending on your local regulations. If children are involved, the situation becomes even more serious, as it could trigger an investigation by child protective services, creating a deeply traumatic experience for your family. On top of everything, the facility owner has the right to sue you for damages or unpaid rent, adding a major financial burden to an already stressful situation. The combination of these risks makes it clear that a storage unit is never a safe or legal housing alternative.

2. Basic Amenities

Storage units do not provide essential living amenities. Occupants would lack access to bathroom doors, running water, and electrical connections, all of which are fundamental for a habitable space. Furthermore, these units do not offer 24-hour access, which is crucial for emergency situations or typical domestic routines.

 

3. Health Concerns

The environmental conditions within storage units are not conducive to human habitation. Inadequate ventilation and the absence of access to clean water can lead to serious health issues over time. Such conditions can exacerbate allergies, respiratory problems, and other health risks.

 

Poor Air Quality and Hazardous Materials

Storage units are designed to be sealed, secure spaces, which means they have little to no ventilation. This lack of airflow creates a significant problem for anyone inside. Dust, allergens, and potentially toxic fumes from items stored nearby—like old paint, cleaning supplies, or gasoline-powered equipment—can become trapped in the air. Breathing this contaminated air day after day can lead to serious respiratory problems and other health issues. Unlike a home, which has systems to circulate fresh air, a storage unit is a stagnant environment. It’s simply not a safe space to breathe for extended periods.

Extreme Temperatures and Lack of Climate Control

Think of a standard storage unit as a metal box. It’s not insulated like a house, so it doesn’t have any protection against outside temperatures. During a hot summer day, the inside of a unit can reach dangerously high temperatures, creating a serious risk of heatstroke. In the winter, it can become just as bitterly cold, posing a threat of hypothermia. These extreme temperature fluctuations make for an incredibly unsafe and unstable living environment. Without climate control, you’re completely exposed to the elements, which is not only uncomfortable but can be life-threatening. It’s a far cry from the stable environment needed for safe habitation.

Mold and Mildew Growth

The poor ventilation and temperature swings create the perfect storm for another major health hazard: mold and mildew. Any moisture that gets trapped inside a unit—whether from humidity in the air, a small leak, or items that weren’t completely dry when stored—has nowhere to go. In a dark, stagnant space, this moisture can quickly lead to widespread mold growth on walls, floors, and your belongings. Exposure to mold can trigger allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and other serious respiratory infections. Living in that kind of environment is a direct threat to your health, turning what seems like a simple solution into a serious long-term risk.

4. Safety Risks

Storage units lack crucial safety measures required for living spaces. They often do not have smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms, or proper emergency exits. Without these safety precautions, the risk of injury or death from fires or other emergencies increases significantly.

 

Risk of Being Trapped Inside

One of the most immediate dangers of staying in a storage unit is the very real possibility of getting trapped. Most storage unit doors, particularly the common roll-up metal types, are designed to be secured from the outside with a padlock. They lack an interior handle or emergency release mechanism. If the door were to close and latch behind you, you could be locked inside with no way to open it or call for help. This scenario becomes life-threatening in an emergency like a fire. Without smoke detectors to provide a warning and no proper emergency exits as required in residential buildings, the unit transforms into a dangerous enclosure. Facility staff would have no reason to suspect someone is inside, and limited access hours could mean a long wait before anyone discovers the situation.

5. Limited Access

Storage facilities impose restrictions on access times, which is incompatible with the needs of a typical residence. Lack of 24-hour access means occupants could find themselves unable to enter or leave their own living space based on the facility’s operating hours. This severely limits personal freedom and emergency access.

 

6. Privacy Issues

Privacy is minimal in storage units, especially since storage facility staff may need to conduct regular inspections. The presence of security cameras and facility staff monitoring can further encroach on personal privacy, making living in such conditions feel invasive and uncomfortable.

 

7. Eviction Risk

Living in a storage unit is a clear violation of most storage unit rental agreements. Such a violation can lead to abrupt eviction without notice and potential legal consequences, disrupting lives and resulting in the loss of both shelter and stored property.

 

8. Contract Violations

Residing in a storage unit typically breaches the terms set out in the rental agreement, inviting legal actions such as fines or lawsuits. This can lead to additional financial burdens and mar personal records, complicating future rental or housing opportunities.

 

9. Lack of Address

A storage unit cannot legally be registered as a residential address, which is necessary for government ID, receiving mail, and official applications. This absence of a registered address can hinder access to essential services and social benefits, complicating daily life and social integration.

 

10. Social Implications

The social stigma linked to residing in a storage unit can adversely affect personal and professional relationships. It might lead to social isolation, reduced job opportunities, and general disapproval or misunderstanding from the wider community, affecting psychological well-being.

 

11. Facility Prevention Measures

Storage facilities are well aware of the potential for misuse and have several measures in place to prevent people from living in their units. These aren’t just arbitrary rules; they are essential for maintaining a safe, secure, and legal environment for all customers and their stored belongings. From the moment you sign a rental agreement to the physical security you see on-site, these preventative steps are designed to ensure units are used solely for their intended purpose: storage. Understanding these measures can help you appreciate the security and professionalism of a reputable facility and recognize why they are so strict about their policies.

Clear Lease Agreements

The first and most straightforward preventative measure is the lease agreement itself. This legal document is more than just a formality; it’s a contract that clearly outlines the rules of the facility. Every professional storage rental agreement will contain a clause that explicitly prohibits using the unit as a residence. This means no sleeping, cooking, or even “hanging out” for extended periods is allowed. This rule is in place to comply with local zoning laws and housing regulations, which do not permit habitation in structures without basic amenities like plumbing and proper ventilation. By signing, you acknowledge these terms, and violating them can lead to immediate eviction and other legal consequences.

Monitored Gate Access and Set Hours

Beyond the paperwork, storage facilities use physical security to deter anyone from attempting to live on the premises. Most facilities do not offer 24-hour access for this very reason. Instead, they establish set operating hours and secure the property with locked gates overnight. This makes it nearly impossible for someone to stay in a unit after closing without being detected. Additionally, facilities are typically equipped with security cameras and require a unique code for gate access, creating a digital log of everyone who enters and exits. At Box-n-Go, we provide a different kind of secure access. Our portable containers can be kept on your property for convenience, or stored in our secure warehouse where you still have free, ground-level access during business hours, ensuring a safe and monitored environment for your belongings.

What Happens If I Sleep in a Storage Unit?

 

Using a storage unit as an emergency shelter or temporary housing might seem like a simple solution during desperate situations, but it comes with significant risks and legal complications. Here’s what can happen if you choose to sleep in storage space, highlighting both immediate consequences and potential long-term issues:

 

  • Discovery Risk: Storage facility staff often conduct regular walkthroughs, increasing the likelihood of discovering anyone illegally inhabiting a storage unit. Once discovered, the occupant faces immediate removal and restrictions on using storage facilities in the future.
  • Legal Charges: Being found sleeping in a storage unit can lead to legal action, including trespassing charges or other civil offenses. These legal consequences can permanently affect one’s ability to rent a storage space again or create broader legal issues.
  • Immediate Eviction: Storage facilities actively enforce their policies through forcible self-help evictions to remove violators swiftly. An abrupt eviction means losing a sleeping spot and access to any personal items stored within the unit.
  • Property Loss: Using a storage unit for sleeping often leads to property confiscation as part of forcible eviction measures. This can result in significant losses, especially if valuable or essential items are stored alongside the person.
  • Health Issues: Prolonged occupation of a storage unit exposes one to environmental conditions that are unsuitable for living, such as poor air quality and lack of clean water. This can lead to serious health issues over time, exacerbated by the lack of basic storage organization meant for living conditions.
  • Safety Hazards: Storage units are not equipped with safety measures required for residences, such as emergency exits or fire safety tools. In the event of an emergency, the lack of immediate access and adequate safety infrastructure can pose severe risks to safety and well-being.

 

Immediate Eviction and Legal Action

If you’re discovered living in a storage unit, the consequences are swift and severe. Storage facilities actively enforce their policies, and you can expect an immediate eviction. This isn’t like a typical housing eviction with a notice period; you could be locked out on the spot, losing access to all your personal belongings inside. Beyond the immediate loss of shelter, you’ll likely face legal trouble. Facility managers can press charges for trespassing, which can lead to fines and a criminal record. This not only makes it nearly impossible to rent another storage unit in the future but can also create significant hurdles when applying for apartments or jobs, turning a desperate situation into a long-term legal and financial problem.

Involvement of Child Protective Services

For parents or guardians, the stakes are unimaginably higher. If you are found living in a storage unit with children, you can be certain that Child Protective Services (CPS) will be contacted. A storage unit is not a safe or legal home for a child. It lacks fundamental necessities like running water, proper sanitation, and safe electrical wiring, and it fails to meet any legal standard for housing. The involvement of CPS is a serious matter that can have profound and lasting consequences for your family. Authorities will prioritize the child’s safety and well-being, which means addressing the unsafe living conditions immediately, a situation no parent ever wants to face.

Where to Find Help: Alternatives to Storage Unit Living

If you are facing housing insecurity and considering a storage unit as a last resort, please know that there are safer, legal, and more supportive options available. Living in a storage unit is dangerous and will only lead to more instability. Instead, you can find real help by reaching out to dedicated services. A great place to start is by calling ‘211’ or visiting 211.org. This free, confidential service connects you with local resources, including emergency shelters, transitional housing programs, and other forms of assistance. The staff at these organizations are trained to help you find stable ground and provide the support you need to get back on your feet.

Top Questions People Also Asked

 

Can a Person Legally Live in a Storage Unit?

It is illegal to reside in a storage unit in California and most other states due to strict zoning laws and safety regulations. These regulations are enforced to maintain community safety and verify that living spaces meet basic housing standards. Residing in a storage facility can lead to severe legal consequences, including fines and eviction.

 

Can I Buy a Storage Unit and Live in It?

Even if you purchase a storage unit, it remains subject to local zoning laws and state regulations that categorically prohibit use as a residential space. These units are designed purely for storing goods like excess furniture or seasonal items and are not approved for residential occupancy. Ignoring these restrictions can invite compliance issues and civil offenses, making it highly inadvisable to consider living in a purchased unit.

 

Why Is Living in a Storage Unit Illegal?

Storage units are considered unsuitable for living due to their lack of essential living amenities, such as proper ventilation, access to electricity, and adequate safety measures. The law designates these units for temporary storage solutions only, emphasizing the safety risks and health concerns associated with inappropriate usage. Living in such conditions poses health risks that can have adverse consequences for anyone trying to bypass these laws.

 

How Long Can You Stay in a Storage Unit?

Storage unit rental agreements clearly stipulate that overnight stays are illegal, aligning with strict security standards set by storage facilities. These units lack the infrastructure to support safe, long-term stays, making them suitable only for storage purposes. Attempting to stay in a storage unit can lead not only to abrupt eviction but also to property confiscation and potential issues with law enforcement.

 

Need a Trustworthy Storage Partner? Box-n-Go Is Just a Call Away!

 

While temporary housing might seem hard to manage, using storage units illegally for a living can lead to severe legal and personal repercussions. This highlights the importance of finding legitimate and secure alternatives that comply with housing and storage standards.

If your life is in transition and you need a trustworthy storage provider, Box-n-Go is here to assist. Our service offers easy access, affordable rates, and peace of mind, making us a superior choice in the storage industry. Whether storing casual or business items, our solutions cater to diverse needs.

Call us today, and let’s secure a spot for your belongings safely and legally.

 

Key Takeaways

  • It’s illegal and fundamentally unsafe: Storage units are not homes. They lack essentials like ventilation, plumbing, and safe exits, making them dangerous environments that violate housing laws and rental agreements.
  • The consequences are swift and serious: Getting caught leads to immediate eviction, the loss of your belongings, and potential legal charges. It’s a high-risk situation that creates more instability, not less.
  • Safe housing support is available: If you’re facing housing insecurity, don’t turn to a storage unit. Instead, contact services like 211.org to connect with legitimate resources, including emergency shelters and housing programs that can provide real help.

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Home / Storage / how-to-properly-storage-photos-pictures

How to Get Storage for Your Images: A Complete Guide

Those shoeboxes of old family photos tell the story of your history. They capture family events, community moments, and ultimately, who you are. But these precious storage photos are gradually disappearing, and it’s a shame to let them fade away. Preserving them is so important. This guide is all about proper storage picture solutions. We’ll show you exactly how to get storage for image collections, from your attic to options like storing photos in a storage unit, ensuring your memories are protected for good.

This post was written with the intent of helping readers learn key strategies for storage and transport. It is possible to preserve old photos and pictures so that future generations can enjoy them. Perhaps they can also learn from them.

How to Store Paper Photos and Pictures Safely

Our starting point is understanding that we are talking about photos and pictures printed on paper. As useful as paper is, it breaks down over time. Paper is an organic product made from trees. As such, it won’t last forever. It takes a concerted effort to preserve paper and the images on it so as to guarantee it lasts as long as possible.

Paper photos and pictures have a few natural enemies: light, moisture and high temperatures. All three affect paper and ink in different ways. Needless to say that proper photo and picture storage accounts for these three enemies as much as possible.

Where light is concerned, keeping old photos and pictures away from it is a good idea. Light is harmful because it causes ink to fade. That’s why photos and pictures printed on paper begin to look dull over time. They lose their brilliance and luster because light is causing the ink to gradually fade away.

Moisture is a problem because it affects both ink and paper. Moisture can discolor paper, turning it a yellowish brown color that easily interferes with the image printed on it. If there’s enough moisture to contend with, it can even break down the fibers of the paper so that it falls apart. Moisture also breaks down ink and washes it away.

Finally, high temperatures can alter the chemicals used to process printed photos and pictures. This can lead to discoloration. As such, it is generally recommended that old photos and pictures be stored someplace where temperatures are not likely to exceed 75°F for an extended amount of time.

Why Proper Ventilation is Crucial for Photo Storage

It never hurts to consider picture storage in areas with good ventilation. As you may know, poor ventilation invites moisture accumulation and mold growth. Understanding that paper has a certain amount of moisture in it, you don’t want to give mold any opportunity to grow. Good ventilation is a step in that direction.

Good ventilation allows for air circulation throughout the space. It prevents mold growth and reduces the likelihood that additional moisture will accumulate in the space. That’s good for old photos and pictures. The less moisture they have to contend with, the longer they will last.

Storing Photos at Home: The Dos and Don’ts

Many people choose to store their old photos and pictures at home in order to guarantee their safety and have them on hand for easy access. Storing at home is fine as long as some basic principles are applied. First and foremost, old photos and pictures should never be stored in locations subject to the previously mentioned enemies. That means not storing them in basements, garages, or attics.

All three environments are subject to temperature extremes and moisture. Basements and garages are also notorious for being affected by weather. Temperature extremes in the garage and flooding in the basement ruin in old photos and pictures faster than just about anything else.

So, where should you store your photos and pictures? The best option is a closet shelf. Being up on a shelf limits the risks of damage should your home suffer minor flooding. Also, because closets are generally part of a home’s living space, temperatures remain fairly constant. Of course, there is no concern about excess light in a dark closet.

In the absence of available closet space, you might consider storing photos and pictures in a cabinet or under a bed. You get the same benefits of climate control and protection against light exposure.

Considering a Storage Unit for Your Pictures?

There are times when it’s necessary to store your old photos and pictures in a location other than your home. Self storage immediately comes to mind. This is a fine option as long as you remember the same principles that apply to storing the items at home.

If you must utilize self storage, make sure the unit you choose is climate controlled. It should have heat during the winter months and air-conditioning during the summer. Being able to adjust the temperature in your own unit would be optimal, but sometimes that is not possible. Sometimes temperatures are maintained by the property owner. In such a case, ensure that temperatures are never allowed to exceed 75°F.

Another thing to remember about self storage is to store all items up and off the floor. Use wooden pallets, shelves or wire racks. The reasoning here is simple: there is always a risk of flood. Depending on where the self storage unit is located, there is also the risk of critters. Keeping your storage containers off the ground is the best way to keep them safe from both.

Also be sure to use plastic storage containers with tight lids. Again, you never know. Unless you visit your storage unit every day, you’ll have no way of knowing for sure that there are no moisture or temperature issues. A solid plastic container with a tight lid offers maximum protection.

Keep Photos Flat and Use Acid-Free Materials

You may choose to store your photos and pictures in albums. That is a good choice. However, be sure to look for albums made with materials that are acid-free. Good material choices include polypropylene and polyester. Never use albums offering pages with pre-applied adhesive. Adhesives can damage pictures over time.

In the absence of albums, you can store old photos and pictures in plastic boxes. Remember that the goal here is to keep the pictures as flat as possible and free of all chemicals. If you are not going to use albums, make sure to stack your pictures together by size. Don’t just throw them in the storage container randomly. To do so is to defeat the purpose.

How to Safely Transport Your Photo Collection

The photos and pictures you are trying so desperately to preserve are at their best when they are being enjoyed by others. As such, you undoubtedly want to take them to family gatherings and other events. Again, that’s fine. Just be careful about how you transport your prized possessions.

Keeping photos and pictures as flat as possible is key. This is why albums are so helpful. Whether you use albums or not, be careful not to expose your photos and pictures to moisture or sunlight during transport. Keep them dry and dark. Don’t transport them in the trunk, either. The trunk is an open invitation to everything from moisture to heat to dirt.

Preserve the photos and pictures in albums. You and family members, friends can enjoy them with very little concern for their immediate safety. Items shared loosely are a different matter. As stuffy as it sounds, old photos and pictures not viewed in albums should be handled with gloved hands. Otherwise, oil and debris from the skin can contribute to paper and ink breaking down.

Why You Should Create Digital Backups

We will close this post by discussing the idea of creating digital backups. While preserving old photos and pictures, especially paper prints, is a wonderful idea, there are never any guarantees of long-term success. Moreover, it’s highly unlikely that your best efforts will preserve paper documents forever. Do yourself and your posterity a favor by making digital copies.

There are many ways to do this without spending a fortune. If you have a digital scanner for your computer, you’ll find making digital copies fairly easy. Just place as many photos as you can on the scanner and scan away. Save the images to your computer first, then to separate storage later.

You can use a digital camera or your smart phone if you don’t have a scanner. This is a bit more cumbersome, but it can be done. The secret is to lay the pictures flat and use something to hold the camera steady. A tripod works very well for this purpose. You simply take pictures of each picture and save the images to external storage.

Picture Storage
Picture Storage

Who doesn’t love looking at old photos and pictures? They remind us of days gone by; they speak of the promises of the future. Thus, preserving our old photos and pictures is important. Hopefully the tips offered here have answered any questions you have about photo and picture storage.

How to Store and Manage Digital Photos

While preserving physical prints is essential, let’s face it: most of our photos are born digital. That endless camera roll on your phone is a treasure trove of memories, but it can also be a source of stress when you get that dreaded “Storage Almost Full” notification. Creating a system for your digital photos is just as important as caring for your old paper ones. It ensures your memories are safe from device failures, accidental deletions, and the simple chaos of having thousands of unorganized files. A good digital strategy protects your photos for the long haul and makes them easy to find and enjoy whenever you want.

Choosing a Cloud Storage Service

The easiest and most popular way to back up your digital photos is with a cloud storage service. Think of it as an online home for your pictures. This method automatically saves your photos to a secure, remote server, which means you can access them from any device with an internet connection. The biggest benefit is peace of mind; if your phone takes an unexpected swim or your laptop gives up, your photos are still safe. It also makes sharing albums with family and friends incredibly simple. Most services are designed to be user-friendly, running quietly in the background to keep your memories protected without you having to think about it.

Comparing Popular Services: iCloud, Google Photos, and More

If you use an Apple device, you’re already familiar with iCloud Photos. It’s seamlessly integrated into the ecosystem and gives you 5GB of free storage to start. For most people, this fills up quickly, but you can upgrade to a paid plan for more space. Android users often lean on Google Photos, which is another excellent option that offers a more generous 15GB for free. Both services have powerful search features that let you find photos by date, location, or even the people in them. The best choice often comes down to the devices you use and which interface you prefer.

Understanding Free vs. Paid Storage Plans

Those free storage tiers are a great way to get started, but they are very limited. If you take a lot of photos and videos, you’ll likely need to purchase a subscription for more space. Paid plans are typically affordable, often starting at just a few dollars a month for a significant storage increase, like 100GB. Paying for storage not only gives you more room to grow but sometimes includes extra perks like advanced editing tools or customer support. Think of it as a small investment to protect a priceless collection of memories from being lost forever.

Managing Space on Your Devices

The primary goal of using cloud storage is to safeguard your photos, but a fantastic side effect is freeing up precious space on your phone and computer. When your device isn’t bogged down with thousands of high-resolution images, it runs faster and has more room for apps and other essentials. By setting up automatic backups and using your service’s built-in optimization tools, you can keep your full-quality originals safe in the cloud while maintaining easy access to your entire library from your device. This gives you the best of both worlds: security and convenience.

Using Automatic Backups and Syncing

The single most important feature to enable is automatic backup. Once turned on, your cloud service will automatically upload new photos and videos whenever you’re connected to Wi-Fi. This “set it and forget it” approach means you don’t have to remember to manually save your pictures. It creates a continuous, up-to-date backup of your camera roll in the cloud. After confirming your photos have been safely uploaded, you can even delete them from your device to free up space, knowing the originals are secure and accessible anytime through the cloud app.

How “Optimize Storage” Features Work

If you don’t want to delete photos from your phone but still need to save space, the “Optimize Storage” feature is your best friend. When you enable this setting in iCloud, for example, your phone keeps smaller, device-friendly versions of your photos locally. This allows you to scroll through your entire library without using much storage. The original, full-resolution files remain safe in the cloud. When you want to view, edit, or share a photo, your phone automatically downloads the high-quality version, giving you seamless access without sacrificing performance.

Freeing Up Space with Cleanup Tools

Over time, even cloud storage can get cluttered with duplicates, blurry shots, and screenshots you no longer need. Many services, like Google Photos, have built-in tools to help you manage your storage by identifying and suggesting items to delete. These cleanup utilities can find large videos, similar-looking photos, and other files that are taking up unnecessary space. Regularly spending a few minutes with these tools is an easy way to keep your digital library tidy and ensure you’re only paying for the storage you actually need.

Other Digital Storage Methods to Consider

While cloud storage is fantastic for its convenience and accessibility, relying on a single solution is never a foolproof plan. For ultimate security, it’s wise to have a physical, offline backup as well. This means storing a second copy of your photos on a device that you control directly and that isn’t constantly connected to the internet. This protects your collection from potential online threats like hacking or account lockouts and ensures you have access to your memories even if your cloud service experiences an outage. It’s an extra step that provides a powerful layer of protection.

External Hard Drives for Offline Backups

An external hard drive is the go-to choice for creating an offline backup. These devices offer a large amount of storage for a one-time cost, with no monthly fees. You can simply connect the drive to your computer, drag and drop your photo library, and then disconnect it for safekeeping. For maximum protection, keep this hard drive in a secure, separate location. If you’re decluttering or moving, placing valuables like a backup drive in a secure storage container is a great idea. This ensures that even if something happens at home, your digital memories have a safe off-site home.

The Risks of Using CDs, DVDs, and USB Drives

You might be tempted to use older media like CDs, DVDs, or USB flash drives for backups, but these are not reliable for long-term preservation. These formats can degrade over time, a phenomenon known as “disc rot,” making your data unreadable. They are also easily lost or damaged and hold a relatively small amount of data compared to modern photo libraries. Furthermore, as technology advances, devices that can even read CDs or DVDs are becoming rare. It’s best to avoid these outdated methods and stick with more durable options like an external hard drive.

Best Practices for Long-Term Preservation

Simply saving your photos isn’t enough; you also need a strategy to keep them safe and organized for decades to come. True long-term preservation involves creating redundancy, making your library searchable, and having a tangible connection to your most important memories. This approach turns a chaotic folder of files into a curated family archive that you and future generations can easily explore. By adopting a few key habits now, you can ensure your digital legacy remains intact and accessible far into the future.

The Importance of Multiple Backups

The gold standard for data protection is the 3-2-1 backup rule. This means having at least three total copies of your photos, storing them on two different types of media (e.g., the cloud and an external hard drive), with at least one copy stored off-site. This strategy protects you from almost any conceivable disaster, from a hard drive failure to a house fire. Your cloud service counts as one off-site copy, and your external hard drive is your second media type. Keeping that drive at a friend’s house, a safe deposit box, or in a secure storage unit completes the strategy.

Organizing Your Digital Library with Tags and Geodata

A huge photo library is useless if you can’t find anything in it. Take advantage of software that helps you organize. Most cloud services automatically use geodata to let you search by location and have powerful facial recognition to group photos of specific people. You can enhance this by adding your own keywords or tags (e.g., “Christmas 2023,” “Beach Vacation”). This metadata makes it incredibly easy to find exactly what you’re looking for years later, turning your archive into a searchable database of your life’s moments.

Printing Your Most Cherished Photos

In a digital world, there’s something special about a physical photograph. As a final layer of backup, consider printing your absolute favorite photos. A high-quality print can last for over a century if stored properly, and it doesn’t require any technology to view. Create a photo album or a gallery wall of your most cherished memories. This not only provides a tangible backup but also allows you to enjoy your photos every day, turning them from digital files into beloved objects that enrich your home and your life.

Important Policies and Troubleshooting

Using cloud services is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be aware of a few key details to avoid surprises. Understanding how your service handles photo quality and what to do if something goes wrong can save you a lot of headaches. These platforms have specific policies that can affect your storage limits and the quality of your backups. Taking a moment to learn the basics will help you make the most of your chosen service and ensure your photo preservation plan works exactly as you expect it to.

Be Aware of Cloud Service Policies and Compression

Pay attention to your backup quality settings. Some services offer a “Storage saver” or “High quality” option that compresses your photos to save space. While the quality is still very good, it’s not the original file. If you’re a professional photographer or want to preserve the absolute best version, make sure you select the “Original quality” setting. Just be aware that backing up original quality files will use your storage allotment much faster, so you may need to purchase a larger plan to accommodate them.

What to Do if Purchased Storage Doesn’t Appear

If you buy a storage upgrade and it doesn’t show up in your account right away, don’t panic. It can sometimes take up to 24 hours for the new storage plan to become active across all your devices. If you’ve waited a full day and your storage limit still hasn’t updated, that’s the time to reach out to the service’s customer support. Usually, a simple refresh or logging out and back in can solve the problem, but it’s good to know that a short delay is perfectly normal.

Find the Right Storage for Your Images with Box-n-Go

When it comes to any kind of storage Box-n-Go is here to help. Our storage units are breathable. This means that the environment inside the unit equalizes with that on the outside. The result? No moisture build up. No mildew. Our storage service also allows you to load/unload only once. Less wear and tear on you and your belongings. Just call us at 1-877-269-6461 and we will be happy to help you with any of your storage and moving needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the single best place in my house to store old photo prints? Hands down, the best spot is on a shelf in an interior closet. Think of a bedroom or hallway closet. These spaces are protected from direct sunlight, maintain the same stable temperature as the rest of your home, and keeping the boxes on a shelf protects them from any potential water damage on the floor. It’s the perfect combination of dark, dry, and climate-stable.

If I use a storage unit for my photos, what features are most important? When choosing a storage unit for something as precious as photos, two features are non-negotiable. First, you need a climate-controlled unit to protect the prints from extreme heat, cold, and humidity, which are the fastest ways to ruin them. Second, make sure you store your photo boxes up off the floor using shelves or pallets. This provides an essential buffer against any ground-level moisture or pests.

I’m storing my physical photos carefully. Do I really need to make digital copies too? Yes, I can’t recommend this enough. Think of it as your ultimate insurance policy. While properly storing your physical prints is a crucial step, creating digital backups protects your memories from the unexpected, like a fire, flood, or accident. Having a digital copy ensures that even if the original is lost, the memory itself is safe forever.

Is cloud storage enough for my digital photos, or do I need an external hard drive too? For the best protection, you should use both. Cloud storage is fantastic for its convenience and automatic syncing, making it your day-to-day backup solution. An external hard drive provides a physical, offline copy that you control completely, protecting you if you ever lose access to your cloud account. Using both methods gives you a redundant system, which is the professional standard for keeping data safe long-term.

What’s the most common mistake you see people make with their photo collections? The biggest mistake is simply underestimating the damage that heat and humidity can do. People often toss shoeboxes of photos into a garage, attic, or basement, thinking they’re safe. Unfortunately, these are the worst possible places because of their wild temperature swings and moisture problems. These environments can cause irreversible fading, discoloration, and decay in a surprisingly short amount of time.

Key Takeaways

  • Protect Physical Photos from Their Enemies: Paper prints are vulnerable to light, moisture, and heat. Keep them safe in a dark, climate-stable place like an interior closet or a dedicated storage unit, and always use acid-free materials to prevent long-term damage.
  • Implement the 3-2-1 Backup Rule for Digital Files: For ultimate security, don’t rely on a single backup method. Keep at least three copies of your digital photos on two different media types (like the cloud and an external hard drive), with one copy stored off-site to protect against any disaster.
  • Make Your Collection Usable and Tangible: A photo archive is only valuable if you can find what you’re looking for. Use tags and folders to organize your digital library, and make a point to print your most cherished images—a physical print is a timeless backup that doesn’t require technology to enjoy.

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Home / Storage / what-to-consider-when-choosing-a-long-term-storage-unit

What To Consider When Choosing a Long Term Storage Unit

Many people use short-term storage solutions. They use storage when they’re relocating, spring cleaning. Also to accommodate them during many other situations that create space issues at your home or office. Long-term storage is also available, however. Many people take advantage of this solution when they’ll need space to store their belongings for several weeks or months. Long term storage is suitable to hold all of the same items that you’d place into a short-term storage facility. Including household furnishing, furniture, antiques, musical instruments, electronics, and more. You’ll also find that long-term storage accommodates a variety of vehicles. But, why would someone use long-term storage rather than short-term storage? What’s the difference between the two options?

Short-term storage is used by people who will need space to hold their belongings only for a short time. While long-term storage is used when space is needed for many weeks or months out of the year. People who rent long-term storage oftentimes enjoy cheaper rates than people using the unit only for a short period. But this varies from one provider to another. If you find yourself in need of space you can access long-term storage to suffice your needs.

Long Term Storage

Long-term storage provides a safe, secure space for you to store all of the things there is no room for in the home. People utilize long-term storage to help them with a variety of needs, such as:

– Boat/RV/Vehicle storage
– Storage when traveling abroad
– Business storage needs
– E-commerce store storage
– Estate storage

These examples are a few of the many when long-term storage is beneficial. Though people use this rental option for a myriad of other purposes as well. There is no wrong reason to use long-term storage in the time of need. When you don’t have the space to store your belongings, the long term storage is there to cover your needs. It’s an affordable, easy way to get the space you need without signing a lease. As well as paying monthly rent for another home.

There is a myriad of storage companies available to provide you with long-term storage. Finding a storage company isn’t difficult, although there is a bit more challenge added to the equation when it’s time to choose a quality provider. Rather than choose the first company that offers storage unit rental, spend time doing your homework. Research the options. Your research goes a long way and helps find a storage unit facility that exceeds your expectations.

Important Information About Storage

Long-term storage is available to anyone that needs space for any reason. You can rent a unit of various sizes, suitable to hold a few items or an entire household of goods. The unit size selected affects the monthly cost of the unit. No matter what type of credit you ave, renting a storage unit is simple. Since there is never a credit check required to rent a unit. This means that canceling the contract is also simple. Just remove your belongings from the unit and notify the storage unit company when you want to discontinue the rental. It’s that simple. People utilize storage units every single day. It certainly helps them in a number of ways. From easing their mind of worry and wonder to offering a simple solution to their storage needs.

When it’s time to rent a storage unit, find the right unit. Use the information below to make it easier to find a storage unit company that exceeds your expectations and needs. Finding that company isn’t difficult. Rest assured that finding the right storage unit company is well worth the time and effort that it takes.

Facility Location

Choosing a storage facility that is in a location convenient to your home, work, or other location is vital. Since you may need to return to the storage unit several times to add more items to the unit or to retrieve items that you’ve put inside. A storage unit located nearby your home or other chosen location reduces the time that it takes to achieve this task. As well as the time spent in traffic, fuel costs, etc. A storage unit located nearby your chosen location keeps things simple and that is important. Always consider the storage facilities nearby your chosen location before venturing off to options across town or that are otherwise out of your way.

Another consideration is using portable storage, like Box-n-Go. This storage comes to you! You do not have to go anywhere. This makes it ideal for many business storage needs.

Storage Access

Once you’ve stored your items inside the storage unit, you’ll need to come back to the facility at various times to get items out, add new items, and for other reasons. Be sure that storage access is available during the hours that you can make it to the facility. What hours is the storage facility office open? You may find the need to speak to staff or access the office for many reasons. What hours can you access the storage unit? Is the storage unit open on Saturday and Sunday? Most storage unit companies close the doors on the weekends, or at least on Sunday. Some facilities offer 24-hour storage unit access. But this isn’t true of every company. Inquire of the available access hours before signing a long-term storage contract.

Price of the Storage Unit/Payment Plans

Don’t overpay to rent a long-term storage unit. No two storage facilities charge the same rate for service. It is up to you to find the most affordable rates for your needs. Before rental, request quotes from three to four companies to learn the exact cause of your rental. Keep in mind any added and unexpected fees the company may charge. Most companies offer storage unit quotes upon request at no cost. So be sure to use them to help find the best price for your storage unit.

Keep in mind a variety of factors impact the cost of the storage unit rental, including the unit size. Along with requesting quotes, be sure to learn more about the payment plans the storage company offers. Most companies charge monthly fees. However some do offer weekly payments and longer payment options for those who prefer to pay several months of storage up front.

Storage Facility Amenities

Every storage facility offers its own amenities. It’s up to you to sort through them to find the amenities that you need to make for a smooth rental experience. Do you need a climate-controlled unit? For many people, climate-controlled units make it easy to protect their belongings in various weather elements. Many people now prefer this type of uni over traditional unis. If you’re among those people, ensure that the storage facility chosen offers the units. Other important amenities to look for in a good storage unit rental company include:

  • Climate-controlled
  • Ground level access
  • Storage unit materials (especially in warmer conditions)
  • Indoor/Outdoor location
  • Locks
  • Gated entrance
  • Monitoring service

This is a small list of amenities that storage unit providers offer. The more amenities the storage unit provider offers, the more comfort you experience renting the unit. Don’t sell yourself short when it’s time to choose a storage facility. The amenity that you need is out there if you take the time to find the right company.

Storage Facility Reputation

Every storage unit company has a reputation backing them based on the type of service they’ve offered to customers over the years. Learning this information is vital to a successful storage unit rental. So make sure to learn more about their reputation first thing. It’s fairly simple to learn vital information concerning the storage facility and its reputation before choosing it as your long-term provider. Friends and family offer word-of-mouth information that you won’t hear anywhere else. Ask around to learn more about the best and worst companies from the people you trust the most. Use the internet to learn additional information about the company. But choose your sources wisely since not every website is trustworthy. Sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) are excellent sources of information about local storage facilities.

Find the Right Long-Term Storage Solution for Your Needs

Long term storage helps simplify life when you lack the space to store important items in your home. It’s affordable, there is no credit check required. The unit can be used for as long as necessary. Check out promotions and discounts ahead of rental, since finding offers is simple and dramatically cuts costs of your long-term storage. Whatever has caused you a lack of space is instantly resolved when a storage unit rental is used.

Consider portable storage facilities like Box-n-Go

Long Term Storage
Long Term Storage

Box-n-Go offers many features offered by traditional storage places. However, Box-n-Go also offers you the convenience of the portable storage. All you have to do is to call 1-877-269-6467.

Home / Moving / eco-friendly-moving-tips

Eco Friendly Moving Tips

Eco-Friendly Moving Tips

Moving is not an activity generally known for considering the environment during the process. This article brings you some eco-friendly moving tips, to help you start thinking about the environment.

You can get recycled boxes, but the truck alone emits plenty of carbon into the atmosphere. Also the labor leads to wasting lots of materials and generating trash. Now consider the fact that the average American will move more than 10 times in a lifetime. this means we all end up impacting the environment significantly.

Fortunately, there’s more you can do now than ever before to get your emissions closer to zero. Thanks to the rise of eco-friendly moving services. Plus, if you plan ahead, you’ll make an even stronger impact. Do the world and your wallet a favor and start planning ahead now!

Planning ahead reduces impact

If you’re like most people, chances are you’ve experienced it.

A trip is around the corner. The thought of packing keeps slipping your mind until the night before. Quickly, you hurry and throw the clothes into your luggage. Fly off to your destination only to realize that you forgot half the things you wanted to take with you.

Packing for the big move at the last minute is much like this, but even more extreme. You’ll notice things that you haven’t seen or thought of since the last time you moved. So don’t wait until the day of the move to think about how to pack all this other stuff.

By starting a few weeks early, you give yourself enough time to get rid of the things that would simply take up space. Be realistic with this choice; if you haven’t worn that shirt in the last five years. It’s worth donating it to someone who will wear it. Have a yard sale for unwanted valuables,. Donate the rest to a charity. Not only will you spend less time on the move, but fewer items means using less fuel on the ride.

Look for containers you already have

Look inside your home first to look for containers you already have to help with an eco-friendly move. Grab the cardboard boxes that carried your Costco groceries. Use suitcases to store clothes, and use sandwich bags for smaller sundries. Other items you can look for include:

  • Plastic bins
  • Dresser drawers
  • Reusable grocery bags
  • Duffel bags and gym bags

In other words, if you have something in your home that can fit smaller items inside, fill it as much as you can before packing it away. You’ll save plenty of space if you pack the clothes in the dresser drawers. Or fill the items from under your sink into the garbage container. The more you can pack items within each other, the fewer boxes you will need.

Store boxes that you get throughout the year

We’d never suggest shopping online specifically to stock up on cardboard boxes. But if you’re going to make the orders anyway, set a place where you can store them for the next time you move.

Whether you know when the move is coming or you otherwise anticipate having to move again in the next few years. Keep the boxes whenever you make an online order. Formed boxes take up a lot of space. So break them down carefully and store them in a plastic box in the basement or garage. You can also put them under your bed if these other storage options are not feasible. They’ll be easy to form back into a box shape when it’s time to move. All you need is some packing tape.

If you must buy boxes, order them used

An eco-friendly move means you avoid buying brand new materials until there’s no other choice. This is especially true with cardboard boxes.

If you haven’t been able to get enough used boxes from other sources on your own, see if anyone you know has any they can loan you. Call up family members, friends, local grocery stores. Also head to retail stores to see if there are boxes you can have for free.

If that’s still not enough boxes, or if you come up short, look on sites like Freecycle or Craigslist. See if anyone else in your neighborhood or city is giving away boxes for free. Other websites sell or give away boxes that have flaws and cannot be used for manufacturing but still work well enough for moving.

Continue to reach out, and you’ll find plenty of opportunities to stock up on used boxes for an eco-friendly move.

Be creative when protecting packed items

Other packing materials, such as the ones used to protect your items when on the move, aren’t as easy to find used. Although there are special collection points that recycle these types of materials. They’re not always conveniently located and many people simply throw out the materials anyway. That doesn’t mean you’re out of luck, though.

Before buying new packing materials that you’ll either have to drive out to recycle or end up throwing out, look again inside your home for items that you can re-purpose. For example, comforters, linens, towels. Also thick clothes all can wrap around fragile items to protect them in the truck.

If that’s not enough, then you can move on to newspaper. This is a long-used packing material that you can easily recycle in your normal weekly bin. If you do find yourself wanting to acquire the plastic packing materials, be sure to know exactly where to recycle them in the future for reuse.

Donate excess items you no longer need

There’s hardly any better chance to get rid of items you no longer need or use than a few weeks before moving away.

As you organize your plan for the move, start sorting your items into Keep and Toss piles. Once this is done, divide the Toss pile into three sub-piles: Donate, Recycle, and Trash. The goal is to have as small a trash pile as possible. You shouldn’t put anything here unless it’s impossible to donate or recycle it.

The donation pile can go to numerous charities, like Veterans for America, Goodwill, local animal shelters, libraries, and schools. Everything in the recycling pile should be processed correctly. For example, electronics have a specific method of recycling that precludes tossing it with your regular recycling.

Keep the kitchen stuff out for a while

It may seem intuitive to start packing up the kitchen first because it’s so difficult to sort through. However, once all the utensils and dishes are packed away, you’ll end up with no choice but to buy, use, and throw out plastic utensils, cups, and plates. Instead, keep just enough kitchen items out to help keep yourself fed throughout the move. An eco-friendly move won’t be so eco-friendly if you use brand new plastics along the way.

Seek out a green moving company for an eco-friendly move

The governor of California recently revealed a plan to revolutionize how cargo travels across the huge state. Aiming to bring the industry down to a zero-emissions standard. If one of the largest states in the country can ship its cargo without emitting carbon into the atmosphere, certainly this is something that your average homeowner could achieve as well.

Eco-friendly transportation is crucial to a green move. As more companies realize the impact they’re having on the environment, they look to adopt a zero-to-low-emissions approach. You’ll find more and more moving services

Long-distance movers have the additional option of saving even more by sharing trucks with other movers. A compartmentalized truck separates everyone’s belongings. However, transports many at once via consolidated shipping. Since there is one truck for multiple moves, this makes consolidated shipping an excellent way to reduce your carbon footprint during the move.

Likewise, you can also use trains to ship your items across the country for less strain on the environment.

If possible, make a single trip with your move

The longer the engine runs, the more carbon the truck emits. In other words, plan your move so you make as few trips as possible back and forth between locations.

Avoid small trips to and from the two homes and instead focus on sending off as many items as you can manage in a single trip and day. If you intend to move some of the items yourself, fit as much as you can into your vehicle rather than making small deliveries. Simply put, the fewer trips you need to make, the less gas will burn away into the atmosphere and leave a larger footprint.

Box-n-Go Storage & Moving Company is your one stop shop for everything moving. We have a full supply of moving boxes, which we can deliver to you, so that you do not have to drive to the store. Box-n-Go offers portable self-storage that comes to you, so that you do not have to make multiple trips to storage facility. We can also arrange for the moving labor, if this is what you are looking for. All you need to do is to call us at 1-877-269-6461 or receive an online quote.

Home / Storage / boat-storage-tips-tricks

Boat 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.

Home / Packing Tips / how-to-move-or-pack-with-an-aging-elderly-parent

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

Moving an Elderly Parent
Moving an Elderly Parent

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.