Storage

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

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

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

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

U-Haul

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

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

Public Storage

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

Extra Space Storage

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

CubeSmart Self Storage

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

Life Storage

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

Box-n-Go Storage

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

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

Independent Short Term Storage Facility Companies

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

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

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

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

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

Give Box-n-Go a Try

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

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

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

Things You Shouldn’t Do in a Storage Unit

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

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

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

You should not smoke or cook in your unit.

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

You should not operate a business from your unit.

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

You should not run appliances in your unit.

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

You should not wire a unit.

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

You should not kennel your pets in storage.

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

Stuff You Shouldn’t Stash in a Storage Unit

Perishable Food.

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

Cash.

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

Things Not To Pack Inside Your Storage Unit

Fine Art.

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

Anything Irreplaceable.

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

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

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

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

Firearms.

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

Plants.

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

Stolen Goods.

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

Vinyl Records.

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

Store with Box-n-Go

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

What is a Climate Controlled Storage and is it Needed?

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

Benefits of climate friendly storage

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

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

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

Protection against the Disasters

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

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

Indoor Storage

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

Reducing Carbon Footprint:

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

Climate Controlled Storage Cost

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

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

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

What belongings need climate control?

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

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

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

Electronics and Climate Control

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

Storing Furniture and Antiques

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Try Box-n-Go Storage

Box-n-Go is a portable storage provider servicing the Southern California. All Box-n-Go storage units are 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

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.

Traditional vs. Portable Storage

The days when you had only one storage option are long gone. Now, there’s a new kid in town, and its name is portable storage—but what’s the difference between portable storage and a regular unit? Which one’s right for you? Read on to find out!

What’s the Difference?

Say you’re looking to hold some furniture until you move from your house or you need some summer campus storage for a couple of months while you head back home. You go to one of several locations, choose the size of your locker (or garage), and put your stuff inside. When you need your stuff again, you go back and pick it up.

That’s traditional storage. Portable storage is different. Instead of you going all the way to your storage space, it comes to you in the form of a container or unit. It’s dropped off at your door, you fill it up, and, when you’re ready, it’s picked up and either taken off-site to be stored or transferred to a location of your choice.

Which One’s Right for You?

It may seem like a subtle difference, but having your storage come to you can make a world of difference in many ways. To decide whether you need traditional or portable storage, you’ll have to look at a range of factors.

Costs

First up is cost. With portable storage, you’ll usually have to pay a one-time fee for the storage container to be dropped off at your location and picked up afterward. These units usually come in various sizes, but are generally quite large, and having them stored will normally cost you more than traditional storage—as you’re paying for a bigger space.

Convenience

The greatest advantage of portable storage is the convenience. Since the container comes to you, you’ll save both time and your back muscles.

With traditional storage, you have to handle your stuff four times: once when you load it into a car or truck, again when you load it from the vehicle to your locker, and then the same in reverse when it comes time to collect everything.

Portable storage cuts this handling in half since you only need to load and unload the container. Not only that, but you can take your time to load and unload since you can keep the container there on your property for days at a time.

Access

Another thing to consider is access. Some storage sites will only let you deposit and retrieve your possessions during set hours, which can be a pain if you work full-time. Portable storage comes to you when you want it, and then you can access that container at any hour of the day or night, if your container is on your site. The facility access may be a bit limited, but comes at a ground level!

Climate Control

While they do exist, it’s rare for portable storage containers to come climate friendly, as opposed to a traditional secure storage facility. Traditional storage is normally well protected from the elements, dampness, and temperature swings, which is important to consider if you have especially valuable (or fragile) items.

Time Is Money

Although portable storage might seem like it’s a bigger up-front cost, it’s not necessarily cheaper to stick to traditional lockers. Time is money, as they say, and it’s true with storage as well. Consider the cost of renting a truck, buying lunch for helpers, fuel, and your time—all of which are greatly reduced if not eliminated with portable storage.

What if I Move?

One final and important factor to consider is what will happen if you decide to move while your stuff is in storage. If you go interstate and everything’s in traditional storage, for example, you’re going to face a logistical nightmare as you try to get everything you own back to you.

Portable storage solves this problem because your items are already neatly packaged and ready for transport. Most storage companies can just load up your container and ship it to wherever you like in the country, so you don’t have to worry about it.

Finding the Right Solution for You

If you’re still not totally sure what solution is right for you, don’t worry. At Box-n-Go Moving and Storage, we’re the experts on student self-storage. Whether you’re a homeowner or a student needing campus storage, our friendly and professional team can tailor a package that’s affordable, convenient, and effortless. Don’t leave it to the last minute—call us today at (877) 269-6461 to find out how!

How to Avoid Moving and Storage Scams

Moving is no different from anything you do in life: There’s always someone out there trying to take advantage of you. It doesn’t matter whether it’s a big residential move or you’re just a college student looking for summer storage. It’s a confusing and potentially risky market that can cost you a lot of money if you’re not careful. Luckily, we’ve got just the guide to help you avoid any pitfalls.

woman taping storage box — Packing for Storage

What Can Go Wrong

For a task that, at its simplest, is just about moving some of your things from point A to point B, there’s a surprising amount that can go very bad very quickly. Leaving your stuff in the wrong hands can not only mean that you end up paying far more than you should be but also result in:

Missing or damaged items
Items held for “ransom”
Overpriced and improper boxes and packing materials
Poorly protected temporary or campus storage

What You Should Be Watching For

Fortunately, there are a few simple things that you can look out for to keep your most treasured possessions safe. Many scams and dishonest companies operate in the same way, so, once you know how to spot a fake, you’ll save yourself some big headaches every time you move.

In particular, you should check the following:

That the company has a physical address – Also look for a phone number listed on their website which is answered when you call. If anything goes wrong, you need to be able to get in touch with your movers.
That the company is rated well by other users – Thanks to the internet, it’s now easier than ever before to check out genuine reviews of the moving company you’re considering. Many review websites exist—do your research and examine the feedback before you commit.
That they don’t give quotes without looking at your stuff – It’s next to impossible to give a final quote for storage and removals without first examining what needs to be moved. So, if a company can give you a fixed quote over the phone, and you don’t see them before moving day, it’s a little fishy.
That you’re not being asked for big money upfront – While deposits aren’t unusual, large deposits which are close to, or over, the cost of the move are highly suspicious. Almost all companies will charge you only once the move is completed. Insist on this and, if they don’t agree, then choose another company.

man holding storage box shaking hands with woman — Professional Movers at Your Service

How to Find the Professionals

If that seems like a lot to consider when all you want is to move your stuff to student self-storage, don’t worry. There are still many reliable, honest, and professional movers out there who just want the best for you and your belongings—like the experts at Box-n-Go Storage and Moving, your trusted name when it comes to moving and storage units near UCLA.

With no hidden costs and a friendly, straight-forward team, our solutions will save you time, money, and a whole lot of hassle. Don’t just take our word for it—read our reviews and call us today at 877-269-6461 to find out more!