Avoiding Common Mistakes When Moving Items into a Storage Unit
Renting a storage unit can be an excellent solution for freeing up space in your home or office. Whether you’re downsizing, decluttering, or storing items for a future move, a storage unit offers a secure and accessible way to protect your belongings. However, not all storage experiences are created equal. Poor planning and avoidable mistakes can lead to damaged items, wasted space, or a chaotic mess that makes accessing your things a headache. Here’s how to avoid common mistakes when moving items into a storage unit and ensure your experience is smooth and stress-free.
Choosing the Right Storage Unit Size
Avoid Guesswork: Measure Your Items
One of the most common mistakes people make is choosing the wrong storage unit size. Selecting a unit that’s too small will force you to cram items, potentially causing damage. On the other hand, opting for a space that’s too large can leave you paying for unused square footage.
Before selecting a unit, take inventory of everything you plan to store. Measure bulky items like furniture or appliances and estimate the number of boxes you’ll need. Many storage facilities offer size guides, so use these tools to choose the most appropriate unit size for your needs.
Account for Future Needs
Another mistake is underestimating how much more you might store in the future. If you’re planning to store items for a long time, it’s worth considering any additional things you might acquire down the road. Renting a slightly larger unit could save you the hassle of upgrading later.
Packing Items Improperly
Use the Right Packing Materials
Improper packing is one of the quickest ways to damage your belongings. Use sturdy, high-quality boxes that are the right size for your items. Don’t overload boxes to the point where they’re difficult to move or stack. For delicate items like glassware, electronics, or artwork, ensure they are packed with protective padding such as bubble wrap or foam.
Label Everything Clearly
A common storage mistake is failing to label your boxes clearly. When it’s time to retrieve an item, having to sift through every box can be frustrating and time-consuming. Label each box with its contents, and consider creating a detailed inventory list. This will make it much easier to find what you need without unpacking everything.
Don’t Forget Climate Control
If you’re storing sensitive items such as electronics, wooden furniture, or important documents, be sure to choose a climate-controlled unit. Fluctuations in temperature and humidity can cause items to warp, crack, or deteriorate. Climate-controlled units maintain a consistent environment, protecting your valuables from weather-related damage.
Poor Organization of Items in the Unit
Avoid Piling Everything Up
It might be tempting to stack everything high to maximize space, but this can lead to instability and difficulty accessing your belongings. Start by placing heavy or bulky items on the bottom and lighter items on top. Be careful not to stack boxes too high, as it increases the risk of items falling or collapsing. Create an accessible layout where frequently used items are easy to reach.
Create Clear Aisles
Many people make the mistake of packing their storage unit too tightly, leaving no room to walk or move around. This can make retrieving items inconvenient or even impossible without moving everything around. Always leave a small aisle or space between boxes and furniture so you can walk through the unit and access things more easily.
Use Shelving for Better Organization
Consider adding shelving units to your storage space. Shelves can help you maximize vertical space while keeping your items organized and easy to reach. This is especially useful for storing smaller boxes or irregularly shaped items that are difficult to stack.
Not Protecting Your Belongings
Avoid Plastic Wrapping
A mistake that many people make is wrapping furniture or items in plastic, thinking it will protect them from dirt or moisture. While this might seem like a good idea, plastic can actually trap moisture, leading to mold, mildew, or even rust. Instead, use furniture covers or breathable fabric covers that protect against dust without sealing in moisture.
Pallets: A Hidden Hero
Many storage units are located on ground level, which can expose your items to potential water damage from floods or leaks. Using wooden pallets or plastic sheeting to elevate your items off the floor adds an extra layer of protection. This simple precaution can save your items from irreversible damage.
Secure Fragile Items
Another mistake is failing to properly secure fragile items like mirrors, artwork, or glass tabletops. These items should be stored vertically and cushioned with blankets or foam pads to prevent them from cracking under pressure. If you can, use specialty storage materials such as mirror or picture boxes designed to hold breakable items safely.
Skipping Insurance
Understand Your Options
Many people assume that their items are fully covered under their homeowners’ or renters’ insurance policies when placed in storage, but that’s not always the case. It’s a common mistake to forgo insurance altogether, leaving your items vulnerable to theft, fire, or weather-related damage.
Before renting a storage unit, review your current insurance policy to see if it covers stored items. If it doesn’t, most storage facilities offer storage insurance, which can give you peace of mind that your belongings are protected.
Ignoring Facility Security
Research the Storage Facility’s Security Features
One of the biggest mistakes when selecting a storage facility is overlooking its security features. While price and location are important, security should be a top priority. Make sure the facility has security cameras, gated access, and individual unit locks. Some facilities offer 24/7 monitoring, giving you additional protection. Always choose a storage facility with security measures that align with the value of your items.
Upgrade Your Locks
Another often overlooked detail is the type of lock used on your unit. While storage facilities provide basic locks, it’s worth upgrading to a heavy-duty disc lock or cylinder lock, both of which are more resistant to tampering. This extra level of security can deter potential thieves and give you added peace of mind.
Overlooking Seasonal Considerations
Prepare for Weather Changes
Forgetting to prepare for the changing seasons is a common storage mistake, especially if you live in an area with extreme weather. If you’re storing during a humid summer, ensure your unit is dry and well-ventilated to avoid mildew or mold. In colder climates, items like electronics and wooden furniture can crack or become damaged by freezing temperatures.
Seasonal preparation is essential when storing items long-term. For instance, placing desiccants or moisture absorbers inside your unit can help keep the interior dry and prevent damage caused by humidity.
Not Planning for Easy Access
Store Items Strategically
A big mistake is placing frequently needed items at the back of the unit. It’s important to consider which items you’ll need to access periodically. Pack these items towards the front of the unit to avoid unpacking everything just to reach them. Seasonal items, such as holiday decorations or winter clothing, should also be stored in easily accessible spots.
Invest in Clear Storage Bins
Instead of using opaque boxes, consider investing in clear plastic bins for items you’ll need to access frequently. Clear bins make it easier to see what’s inside, allowing you to find things more quickly. This can be especially useful if you’re storing clothing, decorations, or small tools.
Final Thoughts
Avoiding these common mistakes when moving items into a storage unit can save you time, money, and frustration down the line. Proper planning, packing, and organization will ensure your belongings stay safe and accessible for as long as they’re in storage. By taking a few simple precautions—such as choosing the right unit size, packing items securely, and protecting them from damage—you can make the most of your storage space and keep your items in good condition. Whether you’re storing for a short period or long-term, these tips will help you avoid the pitfalls many people face when using storage units.
Need a Storage Facility in Largo, FL?
We here at Store-It-All by Largo Rental Closets are a family-owned storage facility in Largo, FL. We offer both indoor & outdoor storage options to meet your needs. Our climate-controlled indoor storage units come in various sizes from 16x8x8, 12x8x8, 10x18x18, 8x8x8, 4x6x6, and 4x4x4. Moreover, our outdoor storage spots offer various sizes for cars, boats, RVs, trailers, and more! And, rest assured, our gated facility is secured with surveillance cameras and offers 24/7 access to renters using their personal codes. Feel free to call us or stop by today to check availability!