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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.

How to Properly Move Kitchen Appliances

Moving can be a task in itself, especially when it comes to items that need a certain layer of protection. Your kitchen, in particular, is one part of your home that tends to have a number of items that can be incredibly fragile. Moving these about appropriately is essential if you want to have a smooth move. One of the biggest concerns when trying to move is the appliances that you have in your kitchen. These are some of the heaviest items that are going to be a part of your move. Which is just one of the many things that make the move harder. If you are moving them on your own without the help of a professional service, paying attention to a few details is absolutely essential to have a smooth move.

Why Should You Pay Special Attention To Your Kitchen Appliances?

Before we go on to the precautionary measures that you should be taking, it is important to note why kitchen appliances need special tending to. Knowing these reasons can also help you take much better care of your kitchen essentials that you may need in your new home. Here are some of the reasons you should be paying attention to your appliances:

1. They Are Fragile

One of the biggest reasons to properly package and take care of your kitchen appliances is because of how fragile they can be. Sometimes, kitchen appliances can have parts that are made of glass and other materials that are prone to damage. If you want to maintain their condition, paying heed to their packaging becomes incredibly important.

2. They Have A Number Of Components

More often than not, kitchen appliances tend to have a number of different components. These need to be disassembled when storing and packing them up to take along with you. In these instances, there can be several parts that have to be accounted for such as add-ons and wires. Packing your kitchen appliances properly can also mean that you store everything that it needs in a much more efficient manner, making them easier to find after your move.

3. You Have To Install Them Yourself Again

If you are conducting the move yourself, the chances are that you are also going to have to do the set up at home yourself too. If you want to have an easier time doing this, packing your kitchen appliances in the right manner along with all their different components can make this process of assembly a lot easier.

Tips To Make The Kitchen Packing and Moving Easier

Not all kitchen appliances need to be moved in the same manner. Some of them may need special packaging and care to ensure that they are in good condition when you reach your new home. Here are some of the tips that you can implement to make this process significantly easier:

1. Moving An Oven

Moving an oven is sometimes challenging. Especially if your oven has been mounted to the wall or if your oven is an older model. One of the first things that you need to do is read the manual of the product that you own. If you don’t have the manual on you, simply search for the manual of your oven online.

Once your oven has been detached from your unit or wall take out all the inner components that are detachable. Make sure that these are kept well since you will need them in the future.

Once you have removed all the components and kept them aside, package the main unit with protective packaging. Make sure that the package is secured well to prevent it from breaking.

The best way to move your oven from the kitchen onto your transportation is to use a dolly. This ensures that the oven doesn’t scratch the flooring of your home and the base of the oven isn’t damaged by the contact.

2. Moving A Washing Machine

Moving a washing machine is fairly similar to that of an oven. Just with a few more steps added to it. Because this tends to always be a heavier device, you may need another set of hands to help you with it.

Start by unplugging the washing machine from the primary power source and the water source. Close up the tap of the washing machine before you do this. The hose is also something that needs to be shut off. Simply remove the screws that hold it together. Once again, the user manual is incredibly beneficial for this since it tells you what needs to be removed. Don’t forget to drain out any water that might still be in the machine or the hose before you package it.

Tape the hoses to the side of the machine and package it with the appropriate packaging. You can also leave your washing machine as is since the body is sturdy enough to handle transportation.

3. Moving A Dishwasher

A dishwasher is an important part of your home. If you have a full unit dishwasher, moving this can be a little harder than usual. This process is fairly similar to that of a washing machine, which means that this is also something that you will need another person for.

Start by unmounting the dishwasher is it is attached to a wall. Once you have done that, take out all the individual components and place them in a box that is easy to find. Remove the hose of the dishwasher and properly drain it out to prevent water from leaking into your boxes.

Package the dishwasher in the appropriate packaging to ensure that it stays well protected all while you are moving.

4. Moving A Fridge

A fridge is by far one of the hardest parts of the kitchen to move. It is something that you have to be incredibly careful about when packaging. You first need to start by removing everything from the inside of the fridge. This means that you have to move the food and all the detachable shelves and drawers inside the fridge. Make sure that these components are kept in proper boxes to make them easier to find.

Next, unplug the fridge to stop it from cooling. It is important to note: please do this around six to eight hours before you package the fridge. Since this is how long it generally takes to defrost all the ice that has been built up inside the fridge.

When you are ready to move your fridge, close the fridge. Secure it with chords to ensure that it doesn’t open up during your move. The next step is to move the fridge to your transportation. This again is something that you might need some help with. Once you have reached your transportation, lay the fridge onto its side so that it can stay in the safest position while you are moving.

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.

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 breatheable. 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

Business Relocation Packing Tips

Business relocation tends to be a very strenuous activity. However, it is possible to simplify the process by having access to the right tips and tricks. Your business move should never have to be a backbreaking exercise. You can make sure that it goes smoothly by making sure that you have planned ahead as well as in investing in the services of a professional mover.

Moving Tips for Business Owners

Simplifying the packing and moving process. Prioritizing, organization and safety are additional ways of simplifying your upcoming business move. You can use the tips below to guarantee the success. To ensure that the next commercial move you make will kick off in earnest and come to its end. Without having to deal with nasty incidents.

Business relocation tip #1 – Start the Preparations Early

We recommend that you start the packing process as soon as possible. This is particularly important for large commercial businesses. Ones that have many moving parts. You will find that the process of relocating a business will, in many cases, involve moving more possessions. That is when compared to a home relocation. This, therefore, means that this particular move will require a considerable amount of time to complete. As such, do not underestimate the value of time. Start making moving preparations as early as possible. It is the only way to avoid making last-minute dashes.

2. Acquire the Right Packing Supplies

Relocating a commercial venture will involve moving many if not all your assets. Many of which are quite costly—from the old venue to a new one. Therefore, you will need to acquire the right packing materials. These will guarantee that your items will reach their destination intact. Always procure the materials in advance.

Common materials you will need for a commercial move include markers and pens for labeling purposes. You will also need cardboard moving boxes, clear zip-locked bags, moving blankets or bubble wrap, and packing tape.

Business relocation tip #3 – Try and Donate the Items You Do Not Need

Regardless of whether you are operating a small, medium-sized, or large enterprise, a relocation will normally present you with a good opportunity. That is to either upgrade or downgrade. During the packing process, you are likely to come across items that are not used often. Also items that do not serve a lot of purpose in your operations.

Old copiers, stray office supplies, office furniture, PCs and even printers. Many of these will be the ideal candidates for bestowment. Donating such items will reduce the amount of work that has to go into the packing process. All the while also presenting you with a rare and unique opportunity to earn some extra cash. That is in the form of a tax write-off. In case you are not interested in writing-off the items being donated, ensure that you confirm that the items will go to registered charity organizations.

4. Labeling

This is one task that you cannot afford to overlook. Once you start the packing process, you will need to make sure that all the packed items are properly organized. The recommended way to keep abreast of things is to make certain that each box is properly labeled. Labeling makes it easier for you to find the items that you require to get started once you arrive at the new business premises.

Consider using a label numbering system. we strongly recommend this to keep track of things. Especially when you are using a commercial moving company. This system will make sure that each box is labeled and a brief explanation of its insides noted at the top or on the side.

In addition to making sure that you will track all your possessions, it will also simplify life if anything goes wrong. It will help in the process of filing a claim in case the moving company misplaces some of your items during the move.

Business relocation tip #5 – Confirm that Cables and Computers Are Packed Correctly

Company computers tend to be some of the most critical and costly components of any commercial venture. To guarantee their safety during the relocation, be sure to follow these guidelines when packing:

Ensure each computer is properly protected through the use of the correct packing supplies. This means that each machine should be covered using a heavy blanket. Then secure the blanket by packing tape to keep it still. Make certain that computers are not on top of other items or vice versa.
Safeguard the business data. You can do this by dismantling the hard drives and packing them separately. This is in a bid to make sure that they will not sustain any damage. Alternatively, consider backing up the data in your drives into a cloud storage service or into a removable hard drive.
Use bubble wrap or a thick blanket to wrap the monitors. Wrap each monitor individually. Many business owners make the mistake of placing monitors in boxes. We do not recommend it. Monitor can easily move around leading to its breakage. When taping the blanket, make sure that the packing tape stays clear of your monitors. They can cause irreparable damage to the screens.

Pay special attention to the cables when relocating. If you are not careful, the cables may entangle. Which will then lead to a frustrating and time-consuming process of trying to disentangle them on arrival at your new location. Unplug the cables from each computer during the packing process.
It is best to acquire some large zip-locked packing bags. Heavy duty bags that can be used to hold the cables during transport. Label each bag to denote the computer where each cable belongs.

Business relocation tip #6 – Be Careful with All Your Furniture

The most popular kind of furniture that you are likely to find in any commercial venture includes work, storage, and seating surfaces. The following are a few tips to make sure that each category is safe during the relocation:

Work Surfaces: This often comprises of items such as desks. Confirm that all their drawers (removable components) are out of the desk before loading into the relocation truck. If the drawers are non-removable, tape them shut. Be sure to pack all your glass surfaces separately.
Storage: Pack the shelving units and file cabinets keeping the issue of space in mind at all times. Where possible, try and remove the shelves. You can use the remaining space to hold light items in a bid to utilize all the available space.
Seating Surfaces: Office seating furniture can take on very odd shapes. It is, therefore, best to try and dismantle the chairs so as to prevent breakage and conserve the available space. If there are fragile components, make sure to secure them using bubble wrap or thick moving blankets.

Summary

It is always best to hire professional help when the business relocation is in the plans. The personnel from the moving company will assist with the shuttling as well as with the heavy lifting and business self storage solutions, thereby helping you save countless man-hours as well as conserve your energy for the duration of the move.

Give Box-n-Go a Try

Box-n-Go is your one stop shop for all your relocation needs. We can help you with moving as well as storage. Simply call us at 1-877-269-6461 and we will take care of the rest.

Storage Unit Size Guide

The self storage is always in demand. Some 44,000 to 52,000 storage units are also currently in use or available to use in the United States. The total amount of rentable self storage space is about 2.3 billion square feet. Those stats aren’t really that surprising. Given how essential storage units have become to people moving to new homes and to those who live in smaller apartments. Renting a storage unit simply makes sense for a lot of people.

If you are also considering renting a storage unit but have not used one previously, then this article will help you find the unit that will best meet your needs. You will also learn how to make the most of the space you are renting and also pick up some valuable tips that could end up helping you save some money.

How Big of a Storage Unit Do I Need?

Before you move forward with any of your renting plans, you will first have to determine how big of a storage unit you will need. Most traditional self storage companies within the industry offer five different sizes for their storage units:

5′ x 5′

5′ x 10′

10′ x 10′

15′ x 10′

20′ x 10′

A great alternative to the traditional storage is using portable storage, like Box-n-Go. With Box-n-Go modular self storage units you can make up any size storage facility for your needs. Here is what you can typically store in various size units:

5′ x 5′ traditional unit or 5′ x 8′ Box-n-Go Unit

Let’s start small again and identify the different items that you will be able to fit inside a typical 5’x5’ storage unit. Usually, the smallest available. This is the kind of unit you should rent if your home is cluttered at the moment. Or if you are currently in the process of changing that. Just because it’s the smallest unit available, that doesn’t mean you won’t be able to fit a bunch of things inside of a 5’x5’ space. Possessions that can fit in boxes can be kept in a storage unit like this. The same goes for smaller pieces of furniture. The largest item you can place inside a 5’x5’ storage unit is probably a mattress.

A standard Box-n-Go 5′ x 8′ unit offers you almost twice the space, yet it will cost you about the same. One added convenience that Box-n-go offers is that the unit can actually be delivered to you for packing. This makes it very convenient and simple.

5′ x 10′ traditional unit or 5′ x 8′ Box-n-Go Unit

Next up are the 5’x10’ storage units. The larger space inside a 5’x10’ unit gives you the ability to store even more pieces of furniture. Typically this size unit will accommodate the contents of a single size apartment or a very small 1 bedroom. A mattress and a couch can fit inside a storage unit of this size. However, you can also include some other bulky pieces along with it, such as dresser, or love seat.

Alternatively, you can also store some electronic items inside a unit of this size. However, make sure that you don’t fill it up too much. Make use of the additional space to ensure that your electronics are kept safe. Keep in mind that with the traditional storage unit you must leave a little room by the door empty. This is so that you can get inside the unit for loading and accessing. Usually self storage facilities have very narrow corridors. There is no space available on the outside of the unit.

A great alternative to the traditional 5′ x 10′ storage unit is standard Box-n-Go unit. Although is measures a bit smaller, since it can be packed fully, it will accommodate the same belongings the traditional unit does. Use 1 Box-n-Go unit to store the contents of a single apartment. It can fit furniture and belongings from about 1 to 1.5 rooms in your home.

Renting a storage unit of this size is a good idea if you are planning to redecorate and paint some of the rooms of your home and want to keep your furniture and appliances safe.

How Big is a 10′ x 10′ Storage Unit? Or (2) Box-n-Go Storage Units

The third type of storage unit available for rent measures at 10’x10’ and there’s also a significant jump up in the average cost to rent one of these for a month. It may not seem like it at first, but a 10’x10’ storage unit is actually quite big. With this type of unit, you don’t have to worry about finding room for your different pieces of furniture because you will have enough space to fit in the contents of an entire room, provided that the room in question is not too cluttered of course.

What’s even better about a space of this size is that you will no longer have to arrange your possessions in awkward ways just to make everything fit. That will make both the storage and removal process so much easier for you. You should look into putting money down for a 10’x10’ storage unit if you are planning a move to a new home and don’t want to rent extra moving trucks or if you just want the process to be completed faster.

A 10′ x 10′ unit will accommodate the contents of one bedroom apartment. Same can be done using (2) of Box-n-Go units. The main benefit of using the Box-n-Go is that the units are delivered to you for loading. So you can take your time. Also, since the loading is done straight into the unit, there is no double handling of belongings. This saves at least 505 of time or costs, if movers are hired to load the storage unit.

15′ x 10′ traditional unit or (3) Box-n-Go storage units

With a 10’ x 15’ unit, you are now talking about having enough room to store the contents of multiple rooms. Typically a two bedroom apartment. Feel free to pack in several mattresses and pieces of furniture inside a 10’x15’ unit because you are sure to still have extra space to work with. Along with holding the possessions you like to keep in the different rooms of your home. You may even find enough room in a 10’x15’ unit to fit in a motorcycle or a different type of small vehicle. This is the kind of storage unit you will want to rent if you are planning to move. Or if you are renovating your home and multiple rooms are being worked on simultaneously.

(3) of Box-n-Go units offer an equivalent storage space and will also accommodate the contents of a 2-bedroom apartment. While you won’t be able to store a car using Box-n-go units, storing belongings is a breeze. Units are delivered to you. No need for truck rental!

How Much Stuff Fits in a 10′ x 20′ Storage Unit? Or (4) Box-n-Go Storage Units

If you live in a smaller home, it’s no exaggeration to say that you can probably fit most, if not all, of your possessions inside a 10’x20’ storage unit. These units are huge and they can easily accommodate mattresses, large pieces of furniture. The different appliances you have at home will fit as well. Typically you would fit contents of a 2-bedroom house, including the garage and patio furniture. Even a car can comfortably inside of a storage unit of this size. This will prove helpful to some people. A storage unit this big will help you out if you are in the process of having a new home built or if you and a friend need to store some household items for a while.

Renting (4) Box-n-go storage units instead of one large unit has lots of advantages. Mainly, since no-one knows exactly how much storage room you will need, with Box-n-go modular approach, you can easily adjust your space. If you do not use a unit, you simply will not be paying for it. This way there is no need to guess. there is also no overpaying for the space you are not using.

Larger storage units

It is worth noting that there are still some larger storage units out there if you need the extra space. Some companies offer 10’x25’ and even 10’x30’ units. Those are harder to find, because people typically don’t need that much space to store their possessions. But just in case you do need as much space as possible, it’s good to know that there are still more options for you to consider.

What Should I Remember While Moving My Items to a Storage Unit?

More than anything else, you have to ensure the safety of the items you intend to keep inside a storage unit. One way to do that is to err on the side of caution when it comes time to choose the size of the unit. If you are planning to store electronics of any kind inside the storage unit, then it would be best to have extra space available.

Remember to take the furniture apart. Do this before you place it inside the unit to allow for easier storage and retrieval. It’s a good idea to place a pallet of some sort inside the storage unit to prevent items from touching the floor. Thus making them more prone to sustaining damage. Note that with Box-n-go storage this is not a concern at all.

Also, double check your belongings before you put them into storage just so you know their exact conditions. You should also do that to prevent a situation wherein you stored something you did not intend to.

What Are Some Additional Tips I Should Know before Renting a Storage Unit?

One of the things you should do before signing off on a self storage unit rental is to learn more about your insurance. The storage company itself is not automatically liable for your items. So instead, you have to check with your own policy provider. Most homeowners policies cover self storage. However, subject to set deductibles. Ask your agent about what they will cover and what they won’t and then take those bits of information into account before placing your belongings into storage.

Some storage companies may also offer you tenant insurance or protection policy. And if you are happy with what that covers, then feel free to purchase that. When it comes to traditional storage facilities, if you can afford it, you should also rent a climate friendly storage unit. You can even consider this as something you absolutely must do if you are looking to store furniture. Keep in mind that Box-n-Go facility is climate friendly. It is an insulated industrial building with indoor temperatures around 65-75 degrees year round.

Portable Storage – Essential Tips

Portable storage is the new darling of the storage world, and with good reason. With a portable storage unit or container, the days of hiring an expensive truck or removal men are gone. Instead of hauling all of your stuff out to a storage unit, the storage unit comes to you!

When using a storage container instead of traditional storage, though, there are a few differences in the way you should pack. With the right adjustments, you can fit more into your portable storage container and still keep everything safe.

What to Expect

When you book your portable storage unit, you’ll nominate a day and time to receive the container. When that time comes, the storage company will deliver the container and lay it out on a piece of level ground. Make sure you have room and permission to put it there and be aware of any local regulations which may restrict the amount of time you can keep it on or near your property.

Preparing for Loading

You may think you can pack up your boxes much like any other move—in assorted shapes and sizes. You can do this, but you’ll be able to fit much more in your unit if you use the same size and shape boxes for all of your belongings. Get the exact inner dimensions of the unit before you start so you can figure out the best way to fit everything snugly.

As well as this, you’ll need enough reinforcement on the boxes themselves to withstand the weight of several layers. Tape up as many sides as you can, then do it again for good luck. The last thing you want is for the bottom layer of boxes to be crushed under the others.

Laying Out the Container

You need to prepare for the fact that the container will be transported from your location to storage, and then from storage to your new location. No matter how careful the driver is, the contents of the container can shift and topple during transit if they’re not packed properly.

To help prevent this, you’ll need to:

Pack your boxes tightly so there is little room to move.
Make floor-to-ceiling “walls” of boxes along the sides and end of the container to prevent items shifting.
Distribute the weight evenly throughout the unit, putting heavier items at the bottom.
Use loading straps to tie down objects if the container comes with internal strap anchor points.

Delicate, Fragile and Valuable Items

The number-one rule of irreplaceable items like documents and jewelry is to not pack them at all. Unlike secure, off-site storage units, you won’t be in control of your portable storage unit once it leaves your property. It’s best to keep these with you as you move.

Securing Fragile Items

Fragile items such as glass and delicate furniture can be packed into portable storage, but you’ll need to be careful. Use as much padding as you can and make sure they’re securely in a box or strapped to the floor of the unit. Some things you can use as padding include:

Clothes
Cushions
Bedding
Bubble wrap
Old Styrofoam packaging

Climate Control

Most portable containers don’t feature any kind of climate control, unlike traditional dedicated storage facilities. You’ll need to compensate for this, first by protecting all exposed furniture and fittings from the light and, second, by using moisture absorbers in the container to protect against damp and mold.

Don’t Rush

The most important advice we can give is to not rush the job. The great thing about portable storage is that, once the container is on your property, you usually have all the time in the world to pack it. So, relax, plan how you’re going to do it, and take a few days to avoid damaging your stuff—or yourself.

In the same way, you should plan your move before it’s too late. You don’t want to be running around trying to organize your student self-storage in the dying days of the semester. Start a couple of weeks ahead and call Box-n-Go Moving and Storage at (877) 269-6461. As the experts on cheap and easy campus storage around USC and UCLA, we can take the headache out of any move, no matter how big or small.