3 Major Benefits Of Utilizing Your Neighborhood Self Storage Units

There is no doubt that life typically comes with a lot of stuff. So, where are we supposed to put all of this stuff? If we all bought enormous houses that were big enough to house all of our things then we would have no room in which to enjoy them. There has to be some sort of compromise so that individuals and families can continually grow and accumulate items throughout their lifetimes. The simple answer to this everyday problem lies within your very own neighborhood self storage units. In fact, utilizing these facilities might actually afford you quite a few benefits.

1. Save Time

When we have things to store we sometimes utilize our friends and family in an effort to save money and keep things as simple as possible. However, the opposite is usually what ends up being the truth. Self storage units allow you to save time asking other people for help, they limit the amount of driving you have to do to access your items, and they streamline your life in such a way as to free you up to actually enjoy what you have stored. It may seem more convenient to store your things on a loved one's property, but at the end of the day you would be best served by avoiding this altogether.

2. Live how you want to Live

Being able to access your stored items whenever you need them is really quite important, especially when you consider how unpredictable life can be. You never know when you might need something of yours, and being required to wait for someone else's permission or admission can be downright frustrating to say the least. Life is much easier and more enjoyable when you can come and go as you please. In order for you to have the items of your choice while still being able to live the life you want, you are probably going to have to use some kind of self storage unit at some point.

3. Save Money

Some people might think that using a self storage unit might cost too much money, but the truth of the matter is that you may actually end up saving some cash if you ever use a self storage unit. The price of building a garage is staggering, and personal storage sheds can be pretty expensive as well. Public storage units make it possible for you to pay a very menial fee in exchange for personalized access to your most prized possessions. On top of that, you will not be required to pay property tax on the unit, nor will you be forced to move your belongings because you relocate. Self storage units are at your disposal 24/7 despite your current address, and they stay that way until you stop paying your dues. Choosing the right self storage unit is just a matter of looking and paying attention to customer reviews. Most cities have multiple units available to citizens, which truly helps consumers find competitive pricing. Shop around and use self storage for your benefit.

Follow the below guidelines when you store your items in a self storage.

* The items that you are going to store should be clean and dry.

* You need to pack some of your items appropriately. For example wrapping items made of glass or porcelain in newspapers is not a good idea. They may break in this kind of packing. You need to pack them with a bubble wrap. Also there is one more danger that the ink from the newspapers may get may get deposited on the glass items.

* In case of furniture which have doors, you need to close them. They should be taped so that they will not open.

* Avoid packing books in large cartons, they become heavy. Pack them in smaller cartons.

* Wrap each dish with a packing paper.

* If you have lamp shades, pack each one in its own box and stuff lots of paper or cloth.

* Label the boxes with their content. This would save you lots of time when you unpack them or when you need only a certain item from the storage unit.

* It is always a good idea to insure your items. They may get damaged accidentally or by a natural calamity. Check if your storage company is providing insurance.

For more information on Self Storage visit http://www.mystorageworks.com.

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The Items You Can't Put in Self Storage

Whether you're in the process of moving, need somewhere to keep office equipment or simply have more stuff than you know what to do with, renting out a self storage unit is an incredibly simple yet effective solution.

For most of us, the items we decide to store away won't consist of anything more than clothes, furniture, paperwork and old memories. There have been some incredibly unusual items found in self storage over the years however and believe it or not, there are a number things that you simply are not allowed to store in these units.

Stolen items

It might sound obvious but you are not allowed to keep stolen items in self storage. Unless you're a professional thief you are unlikely to ever encounter this dilemma but it has happened many times in the past so if the company you're using becomes suspicious they are likely to investigate further.

Illegal items

Again, it might sound obvious but if it's illegal, you're not allowed to store it. There have been many occasions where self storage units have been used to house drugs so staff have been trained to be extra-vigilant regarding this matter and are always on the look-out. Furthermore, you can guarantee that they won't hesitate to call the police if they think their business is being used to store illegal items.

Fireworks

Although modern storage facilities are incredibly safe when it comes to preventing the risk of fire, fireworks are a big no-no. In 2013, a blast at a fireworks factory in Vietnam killed 21 people and injured another 98 so as a safety precaution you would really struggle to find a facility that will allow you to keep them there.

The same rule applies for gas canisters and other flammable items that could explode and cause potentially disastrous consequences.

Dangerous chemicals

The average person is unlikely to have a vat of sulphuric acid in their house but there are many different companies out there who do use dangerous chemicals on a daily basis and may therefore need somewhere to store it. Although any good self storage company will refuse this item, many of them will do their best to help you find an alternative facility for chemical storage.

Perishable foods or materials

Running a catering company and have more stock than fridge space? By all means keep your tinned foods and non-perishable items in self storage but anything fresh that will go off quickly and give of a bad smell will be turned away.

MStore offers self storage in for all your domestic, business and specialist requirements. To use the space calculator, find your nearest store or view our special offers, please visit our website

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Happy Holidays!

Happy Holidays from Railroad Ave Self Storage!

Top Tips for Preparing Your Items to Go Into Self Storage

Whether you need to store clothes, books, furniture, paperwork, appliances or old memorabilia, self storage provides a simple and effective way of doing just this - even if you do have very limited space in your home. Although you simply put your stuff into your unit and then forget about it until you next need it, there are a number of things you can do to prepare your items to ensure that they stay in tip-top condition.

• Summer is well and truly over and the winter months are officially upon us. This means it's time for the shorts and t-shirts to go away and time for jumpers and coats to reemerge. If you intend on keeping your summer clothes in self storage then try to refrain from folding them up and packing as much as you can into one suitcase. Clothes rails are perfect for dresses, trousers and even tops and guarantee that come summer they won't be impossible to iron. For really special items get a protective cover as this will help to keep items clean and fresh.

• If you're storing furniture and want it to stay in great condition for when you eventually need it or sell it, then make sure you protect each individual item. Clean surfaces with a gentle soap and water solution and consider applying a coat of wax to protect the finish. Disassemble beds, tables and chairs if necessary and ensure that you cover all furniture to prevents scratches and dust collecting on it.

• Fabric sofas, chairs and mattresses should be cleaned as well as possible to prevent mould and mildew from growing whilst they're being kept in self storage. Gently wipe the surfaces with an antibacterial cleanser and warm water solution and allow to air dry. It is recommended that leather or delicate fabric furniture is professionally cleaned before storage.

• Use masking tape to mark an "X" on glass tabletops and mirrors. It might sound crazy but believe it or not, this will add strength and help to prevent items from shattering. Fixing a sheet of corrugated cardboard on each side of the glass will also give added protection and bubble wrap is great for smaller, delicate items.

• Books are best stored in acid-free boxes because this will ensure that the pages don't become weakened. Whatever you do, don't wrap them in newspaper because the print will more than likely transfer onto the pages and leave ink stains on them. Pack any particularly heavy books at the bottom of the box because this will prevent them from bending or weakening the lighter ones.

MStore offers self storage in for all your domestic, business and specialist requirements. To use the space calculator, find your nearest store or view our special offers, please visit our website

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Important Pros and Cons of Self Storage

Self storage continues to grow in popularity, and for good reason. Storage units are fairly affordable and allow you to free up room in your home and reduce clutter, store business supplies and inventory, clear out a room for out-of-town guests or store valuables that you want to pass on. You can keep almost anything in self storage, whether you make it a short-term or long-term storage solution.

Benefits of Self Storage

One of the greatest benefits of self storage units is the flexibility. Most contracts are month to month, which means you can rent a storage unit for one month if you want to clear out a craft room in your home, for example, to let out-of-town relatives stay in your house for the holidays. This flexibility also extends to the many possible uses of self storage facilities, which includes but is not limited to:

1. Temporary storage during deployment or college

2. Business inventory, supplies and seasonal decor

3. Mobile business station

4. Store inherited belongings until you can go through them

5. Store important keepsakes, valuables and large furniture you want to pass on to your family

6. Clear up clutter in your home

7. Store seasonal decor such as lawn inflatables, Christmas trees and ornaments

Self storage units are also flexible in that they offer many ways to customize your storage experience. If you need easy access to your belongings, you can choose a drive-up storage unit. If you are storing sensitive items like wine, documents or electronics, you can opt for a climate-controlled unit. If you want to store an RV or motorcycle during the off season, outdoor storage is available.

Disadvantages of Self Storage

With all of that said, even cheap storage at a self storage facility does have drawbacks. The cost is one of the biggest drawbacks. While storage can be very affordable, it will still be a monthly expense that you will be responsible for. This is why it's a good idea to consider the value of your items before you choose to pay for storage.

Finally, depending on how close your home is to the storage facility, you also need to consider travel time and expenses, especially if you plan to access your storage unit often. This may not be a major concern if you will not visit more than a few times or if the storage building is very close to you.

Christine writes for Access Self Storage, which offers cheap self storage throughout New Jersey and Metro New York. Learn about the current deals on self storage in Clark, New Jersey by visiting Access Self Storage.

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What To Know About Self Storage

The demand for self storage facilities is rapidly growing in the country as the need for storage space increases. More people are seeking to de-clutter their lives as much as they can. It is becoming harder for people to manage their rented, leased and owned spaces, thus turning to self storage as a viable solution. Whether you are looking for space for storing a few small items, storing meaningful possessions that you are not currently using or archiving your business paperwork, self storage could be the ideal, flexible and cost effective solution for you.

What is self storage?

Also known as self-service storage, it is a rapidly growing industry where units that consist of storage space are rented to tenants on a monthly basis. These storage facilities are often used by people who are moving, remodeling their commercial or residential premises, students on semester breaks and persons on military deployment. They can also be used to store business excess things, such as equipment, supplies and inventories.

Benefits of self storage

Enhanced security: Self storage units are usually surrounded by a perimeter fence to enhance security. The accessibility to the facilities is often controlled by a password-activated keypad system that is connected to motorized gates. Other security systems, such as alarms, intercoms, security cameras and smoke sensors are also employed to make the units even more secure. Storage operators are also not allowed access to the rented units, thus minimizing the chances of their taking control of the possessions, unless there is an imposed lien for overdue accounts.

Self storage can be extremely beneficial to established businesses that are having expansion plans. Instead of expanding their premises or moving to larger commercial units and suffer all the costs and inconveniences. The businesses can rely on self storage services, which are more flexible and affordable.

Self storage is also very beneficial for people who find it inappropriate to move, yet they wish to add an extra living space to their house. Self storage allows such people to temporarily remove their furniture and other household items, making house renovation and extension projects much more practical.

If you are planning to relocate, renovate, or you simply don't have enough space for safely catering for the growing amount of belongings stored in your garage, self storage is the solution for you. This arrangement will allow you constant access to your stored items; you will get to see them, work on them and remove them whenever necessary. You will also have peace of mind in knowing that your valuables are stored safely.

For more information on Self Storage visit http://www.mystorageworks.com.

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The Difference Between Long Term Public Storage and Short Term Self Storage

There are many reasons today why you may find yourself in need of a good storage facility. Maybe you are downsizing or between homes, have possessions that you can't bear to part with but that are cluttering up your new, tiny apartment, have boxes of business documents that are taking over your office, are relocating or traveling overseas for an extended period of time or maybe you just bought a new car and actually need to reclaim the garage. Whatever your needs might be, there are storage solutions available for you.

Short Term Self Storage

This option is being utilized all over the country. Convenient, flexible and easy to use, self-storage is perfect for short-term transitions.

Self-storage is provided in clean, secure, sometimes climate controlled environments in specialist facilities. You choose the size of your storage locker, which can range from a small closet style to the size of an apartment, and determine what length of time you need the locker for. Self-storage is rented month-to-month and you can upgrade or downgrade your locker as your requirements change.

For self-storage you apply your own lock to the storage unit and are the only one with access to your belongings. You are free to come and go as you please and remove and replace items at will. There is no charge for accessing the facility and you can do so at times that are convenient to you (subject to storage opening hours).

With self-storage you are responsible for packing your belongings and delivering them to the facility. You choose how best to fill your locker or storage space, which allows you the freedom to put items you might need frequently at the front, and seldom used belongings at the back.

When you decide you no longer need the storage locker you simply pack up your possessions and move them out. Many self-storage agreements can be terminated on short notice allowing you a lot of flexibility with your storage needs.

Long Term Public Storage

What if you are in need of a more permanent storage solution?

Perhaps you are relocating overseas for a number of years or traveling and don't want to sell all your worldly possessions. Maybe you inherited some antique furniture that won't fit in your current home but you are planning on upsizing in a year or two. Maybe you have a classic car, boat or other item that you will not be using for a while. This is where long-term public storage comes to your aid.

With this kind of facility the management has more control over the care of your possessions (when you are away overseas this is a comforting notion.) They organize the storage of your goods and ensure that everything is packed away properly for long-term storage.

Usually with long-term storage you will be provided with a lease that will normally save you money over the month-to-month rentals. Access is by authorization only and this keeps your belongings secure while you are away. Some companies use giant containers in climate controlled warehouses for long-term storage while others use regular looking storage facilities.

In the end, which storage facility you choose, is determined by your particular storage needs. Both long-term public storage and short-term self-storage offer great solutions for people and their possessions. The peace of mind in knowing your belongings are being kept in a secure environment is paramount (especially if you are out of the country). Rather than relying on friends or relatives to store your precious belongings it is much better to rely on the professionals.

Toronto storage by Migson Public Storage. Secure, safe, trusted.

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Self-Storage Unit Sizes - How Much Space Do You Need?

When it comes to self-storage units, size doesn't just matter - it's everything. You don't want to pay more for a storage space that will only sit half full when you can pay less for a smaller self-storage unit with all its space maximized.

It's all about picking the right size and knowing how to manage the space you have to let you fit all the things you need to put in storage. Not to worry though, there are a lot of self-storage unit sizes to choose from and almost all will provide you with enough space to store your things. The sizes also increase in just the right increments so that you never have too much or too little space; of which every square inch ought to be worth every cent you spend for it.

Take Your Pick

Basically, self-storage unit sizes range from the smallest at 5 ft. x 5 ft. or 25 square feet, which is roughly the size of a hall closet or half a bathroom to a 10 ft. x 30 ft. or 300 square foot deluxe garage size that can probably house one car comfortably with lots more room to spare.

To give you a better of idea of the choices that are available to you, here are the standard sizes that are available at most self-storage unit provider companies, together with a brief description of what items or furnishings, and how many, will fit into each given size.

Each description should give you an idea of how much space you need. Just think about what that you want to put into storage and see which unit size will be able to accommodate your things.

• 5 x 5 - at 25 square feet, this smallest of self-storage unit choices will give you just enough room to put in small furniture like a chest of drawers, small boxes, a small mattress set and some other small items.

• 5 x 10 - this is roughly the size of a walk-in closet and will allow you to store a couch, chairs, a chest of drawers, mattress set, some yard equipment and other small items.

• 5 x 15 or 8 x 20 - this unit size is roughly 75-80 square feet and is similar to that of a small bedroom or a hallway. It will store most furniture from a one-bedroom apartment, including a refrigerator, washer and dryer, as well as some other small furniture and miscellaneous items.

• 10 x 10 - this is the average size of a regular bedroom and can fit most furnishings from a one or two-bedroom apartment including patio furniture as well as most appliances.

• 10 x 15 - at 150 square feet, this is about the size of a large bedroom and will hold a two-bedroom apartment or a small house's furnishings including most appliances.

• 10 x 20 - at this size, a lot of things can already be stored, with some extra room to spare. About the same area as a one-car garage, the 10 x 20 ft. self-storage unit can accommodate the furnishings of a two or three-bedroom apartment or house.

• 10 x 25 - this 250 square foot space is the same size as a standard one-car garage and can probably fit just that - a car, even a pick-up or a boat. If not, it can comfortably accommodate all the furnishings including major appliances of a three or four-bedroom house or apartment.

• 10 x 30 - by far the largest space and the biggest self-storage choice you can avail of, the 300 square foot unit is as big as an extra-large one-car garage and can house either one vehicle such as a car, truck or boat; or all the furnishings, appliances and other major and minor items of a four or five-bedroom house.

Hopefully, this guide has helped you visualize how well you are going to be able to fill your storage space so that you can find a self-storage unit size will fit your storage needs just right.

Find climate-controlled, secure self storage units at EasyStorageSearch.com.

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Here Are Lesser Known Benefits Of Self Storage

Most people are already aware of the benefits of self storage. For starters, it allows you to store belongings that you don't really need. Since it's a self storage option, you can access your belongings anytime you need to.

These benefits are more than enough reasons why more and more people are taking advantage of it. Judging from the popularity of these units, it seems that people are now recognizing the importance of renting a storage unit.

Lesser Known Benefits

Just in case you're not yet sold on the whole idea of using such a unit, here are lesser known benefits that users are getting out of using one:

• It makes the process of selling a home easier.

Selling a home that's packed with junk can be very hard. You want the prospective buyer to visualize your home as their new home. You'd want the prospective buyer to easily visualize what they can do to your home to make it their own and it's hard to do that with all the junk lying around.

As an added bonus, you're going to make your home look more spacious. With all that extra space, you can easily sell your home because your home will give this impression that it's bigger than it really is.

• It makes moving easier.

If you're moving homes or offices, it's a good idea to do it in batches. This is especially true since there are a lot of things in your present home or office that you wouldn't need in your new place. You can simply place these things in a self storage unit and just move them whenever needed.

• It makes renovation easier.

This is one of the benefits of self storage that you should know. It's pretty hard to renovate if there are a lot of appliances, furniture and other stuff lying around you home. You'd have to move them regularly which will take a lot of time and effort. In addition, you can easily damage your things with all the renovations that you're going to do.

This is why it's a good idea to just place your stuff in a self storage unit. This way, those doing the renovations will have an easier time doing so and you can prevent accidents to your belongings that can prove to be very costly.

How about the Cost?

Of course, you need to pay in order to take advantage of these benefits of self storage. The question is - is it worth it?

The cost is a very small price to pay if you're going to consider all the benefits that you're going to get. If you're selling your home, you can easily recoup your investment in a unit once you've sold your home. If you're moving or renovating, the efficiency that you'll get will help you save a lot of time, effort and money.

The most important thing is you choose a company wisely. Make sure that you do your research well and choose the best unit for your needs.

For more information on Self Storage visit http://www.mystorageworks.com.

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Railroad Ave Self-Storage FAQ

Are there any restrictions to the length of stay?

We have a month-to-month rental agreement with a one month minimum.

When do I have access to my storage unit? 

7 days a week, 365 days a year, 7am to 7pm.

What type of security does your facility have?

Controlled keypad gate access, video surveillance cameras, on-site resident manager, and well lit facility.

Do you offer Boat & RV Storage? 

Yes, we have a paved Boat & RV parking area that is well lit with separate keypad access.

Are my items in storage insured? 

We do not provide insurance for your possessions; however insurance is available and recommended.

Pack Your Home Easily To A Self Storage

Self storage is a very convenient and affordable place, if you are planning to save your space at your home, and to make your unused items safe. The most important things you need to focus before moving the items to a self storage are packing and organizing the. Here are a few tips to help you to move your home easily to a storage unit.

Today, many storage facilities are offering packing as a service, but you need to pay for that privilege. If you feel the service costs are not affordable, you need to make some homework to reduce your stress levels. This also makes your unloading job easy. You need to concentrate on packing the things in such a way that you can find your things at a later date easily without unpacking all the items if you just need one.

Packing the Items:

1. Make sure, you order the necessary packaging items like packing boxes, small ward robe boxes, dust covers, gloves, ropes to tie, knife, padlocks, marker, wrappers, sealing tapes etc. Another thing is order more than you estimate, which helps you to pack last minute items easily, and in time.

2. Make a list of items you are going to pack. Categorize them based on usage, utility and security. Decide the items which you want to keep with you or store and which you want to sell, dump or give away to charity. This reduces the effort of storing unnecessary items.

3. Try not to store important documents like passports, birth certificates, school progress reports, bank statements or pass books, any kind of contracts, license, personal photos, phone lists etc. Also, make sure to know about the security that is going to be offered in the self storage before you decide to keep valuables like jewelry.

4. Once you have the list of items you need to store, start packing with the least important items first. These include, unused clothes, ornaments, spare electronic goods, etc. If you concentrate on such things at early days of your packing, it will reduce your stress as you approach the day of moving.

5. Try to use all the items which have empty storage. For example you can use the space in fridge, dishwasher, and dryers to store clothes. Never keep all the valuable items in a single box. Scattering them across the boxes will reduce the risk.

6. Fill the boxes completely to keep them free from collapsing. Never overweight the boxes while packing. This requires more personnel for carrying and moving which increases your cost to move. Try packing heaving items in small boxes for easy lifting.

7. Once you complete your packing use tapes to cover the spaces and to make sure that no item slips from the box. Use marker to number the boxes for count as well as for making the check list. Prepare the check list using the box number and note down the items which are present in each box even it is small while packing. This reduces your task of searching when required.

For more information on Self Storage visit http://www.mystorageworks.com.

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Happy Thanksgiving!

Railroad Avenue Self Storage Would Like to Wish You and Your Family a Safe and Happy Thanksgiving!

Haas&Hahn: How Painting Can Transform Communities

Artists Jeroen Koolhaas and Dre Urhahn create community art by painting entire neighborhoods, and involving those who live there — from the favelas of Rio to the streets of North Philadelphia. What's made their projects succeed? In this funny and inspiring talk, the artists explain their art-first approach — and the importance of a neighborhood barbecue.

Too Much Stuff? Store It at Railroad Avenue Self Storage!

Too much stuff? Store it safely with Railroad Avenue Self Storage in Fairfield, California. With gated access, multiple unit sizes, and onsite managers, they are sure to have the storage solution that's right for you. And every unit is ground level making drive-up access easier so you can get your belongings when you need them. Contact them today.

Self-Storage Tips For Fragile Items

Storing fragile items like breakables, electronic equipment, and paper-items can be problematic with stuff ending up broken and spoiled beyond use. Knowing how to pack each kind of item and the storage conditions needed for each item will ensure that your valuables stay in good condition until the time comes when you have the need for them and decide to take them out of storage.

To help you keep your fragile items safe and sound, here are some tips for you:

Breakables - Dishes, Cups, Glasses, Mirrors, etc.

1. Wrap dishes, cups, and glasses individually. Use newspaper or tissue paper to do this.

2. Mirrors should be padded with cardboard or thick cloth (e.g. quilt or blankets) on all sides.

3. Do not stack dishes when putting them inside boxes, but stand them on their sides instead next to each other. Make sure that they fit snuggly inside the box and add extra padding on the side if needed to insure that they're not loose and won't rattle during the move.

4. Cups and bowls can be stacked on top of each other, but keep it to a minimum with only 4-5 cups / bowls per stack. Just as with dishes, use additional padding material for each box if needed.

5. Secure boxes with packing tape and make sure that you label them FRAGILE and that the top side is indicated clearly.

6. When storing mirrors, stand them on end instead of laying them flat on the floor.

Electronic equipment / Appliances

1. Take out any batteries from electronic equipment since batteries will eventually leak out and break your stuff. In case you'll be packing appliances like refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines and dryers, make sure you take out any items that might be inside as well. This is especially important if you have perishable or dirty good inside!

2. If you still have the original packaging material with you, then put your electronic equipment and appliances in them since you can be sure that the fit is perfect and you won't have to bother about padding your boxes by doing this.

3. If you don't have original boxes with you, then find boxes that are closest to their measurements so that they won't rattle much during the move. You also need to wrap your stuff in bubble wrap to protect them from bumps on the road.

4. In case you'll be storing electronic equipment with separate parts such as stereos and computers, then pack or wrap each part separately even if you put them inside the same box.

Paper

Paper is one of the most problematic things to store since they degrade easily. So it is best that you learn all you can about storing paper collections.

In the meantime, just remember that in general, you need to use non-acidic tissue paper and boxes when storing documents if you wish to preserve them for as long as possible. You also need to keep in mind that you can't store paper items and documents in ordinary storage units and may need to rent climate-controlled storage units for them.

For more information on Self Storage visit http://www.mystorageworks.com.

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5 Things to Beware of Before You Choose a Storage Space

So you have finally decided that you need a storage facility, maybe because your family is expanding and so is your stuff or maybe you just want to clear up a little extra space. Whatever your reasoning one thing is for sure; storage spaces are a great way to help you organize your life. But before you call up the storage facility nearest you, there are a few things renters should beware of.

Below we listed five things renters should familiarize themselves with before they take that next step and rent a space. Renters are also encouraged to do the research themselves and learn everything there is to about renting a space.

1. Storage facilities are never exactly alike. Depending on where you rent you will have to deal with things like; customer service, grounds cleanliness, hours of operation, etc. It is up to you to do the research and find which storage facility fits your needs best. Those who own storage facilities are keepers of your precious belongings and you would not turn things over to just anyone would you? It is your responsibility to make sure you know all about the storage facility before you commit to it.

2. Although storage facilities may provide a little more security than your home, burglaries do happen. You would never want to store something that is priceless to you, such things should be kept in a bank. Be aware of what is going into your storage unit and take inventory. It is also good to occasionally do a thorough check to make sure everything is still there. Also, one thing to look for at a storage facility are their security cameras. Questions to ask may be; How often is someone guarding the premises? Or are there any hidden cameras?

3. Some storage facilities raise their rent, before you commit you must ask what is the constant going rate, also see if you can get a written agreement to lock in your price.

4. Remember to make the most use of your storage space. Remember when you were a kid and Dad would pack the car before a vacation? Did he utilize every ounce of space possible or just throw things into the car carelessly? Making the most from your small rented space is smart. To get the most from your investment it would be wise to disassemble anything that can be taken apart and pack everything as neatly as you can.

5. Check with the storage facility and see what their insurance policy is. Most storage facilities are not liable for your belongings so if they do not offer some type of insurance, you should consider getting it from an outside source.

These five things that renters should make themselves aware of are not to scare anyone from renting a storage space. Overall, a storage facility is a wise decision for anyone looking to free up some space in their home or apartment. However renters should beware of what they are getting into. Knowledge is power and the more you know, the more prepared you will be in the long run.

Paul Darden is owner and CEO of AA @ Ben White, the only Austin self storage facility with a 24/7 onsite management team. Darden specializes in the brokering, marketing, feasibility studies, and developing of self-storage personally brokering over 130 self-storage facilities throughout the southwest to both national and regional self-storage operators. If you are looking to move and if you need self storage in Austin visit http://www.aabenwhite.com

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10 Storage Tips to Keep Bugs, Mice, & Ants Out of Your Unit

A little effort can go a long ways towards protecting your items while they are in storage. Anything worth paying to store is worth protecting it while it's stored. For the safety of your items, those in neighboring units and in consideration of the owner/management of the storage facility, it pays to pay attention to pest control. Here are 10 Storage Tips to Keep Bugs, Mice, & Ants Out of Your Unit.

1. Before moving furniture into storage clean it and vacuum thoroughly. Get all the crumbs, debris and stains off sofas and chairs including down in the cracks and crevices. Any "extras" left in here is a calling card for bugs and once started it affects not only your stuff but that in other units too.

2. Thoroughly clean appliances, large and small, for the same reason. Those crumbs in the toaster tray, the food stuck on small appliances or pans invites in problems you don't want. Clean means nothing to attract bugs or mice and without food and shelter they will not stay.

3. Mothballs work well in boxes of clothing. Be careful though and use cause as they can stain clothes. Putting some in the unit, where they won't stain the contents, is a good idea however. Cedar scented blocks and sachets can be made or purchased to be tucked into boxes of clothing or household goods like towels, blankets and sheets. A good sachet can last three to four months, enough for short term storage.

4. Don't be afraid to use contained insecticides - roach and ant baits can be an inexpensive thing to put in the corners as you don't know what others have stored in their storage sheds.

5. Use mouse and rat baits, or traps with peanut butter instead of cheese. Don't use the traps if you don't check it regularly - leaving one sit in the trap doesn't catch others after the trap is sprung.

6. For additional natural deterrents look to herbs. Catnip is said to repel ants, lavender repels moths, sage repels slugs and mint can be effective against many kinds of pests. Mint and tansy are said to repel mice, although tansy can cause allergic reactions in some people.

7. Stick to canned goods and securely sealed (screw on lids) jars packed to prevent breakage if you absolutely must store food . Because it attracts pests, food is highly discouraged.

8. Buckets from bakeries can be used to store rice or grains. It's strongly suggested this be for a minimal amount of time in a storage unit. There are so many factors that are beyond our control that it pays to use caution. Boxed foods and plastic bags simply offer no resistance to mice and bugs, resulting in an infestation of pests that no one wants.

9. Make sure up around the top there are not holes that birds can get into. Having a bird trapped in a storage unit can be very messy and unpleasant!

10. Avoid storing candles in warm climates and those with liquid like snow globes in cold ones. Some units are not protected from heat and freezing, and not only can the items become damaged but anything under it also. This, in turn, can attract pests due to the oils or dampness. If you must store items like this go for a climate controlled unit, which better protects all of your items.

Paul Darden is owner and CEO of Buckingham Storage, the only Richardson self storage [http://www.buckinghamstorage.com] facility with a 24/7 onsite management team. Darden specializes in the brokering, marketing, feasibility studies, and developing of self-storage personally brokering over 130 self-storage facilities throughout the southwest to both national and regional self-storage operators. For more storage tips and information, visit [http://www.buckinghamstorage.com]

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Benefits of Self Storage For Your Excess Personal Items

Are there just too many stuff at home that you feel it is becoming very crowded and there is only a little space remaining for you to move about? Have you been delaying purchase of furniture and appliances just because there is no more room for it at home? If you answer yes to any of these, then maybe it is the perfect time to resort to self storage.

Self storage is the term referred to businesses that offer storage facilities in their edifices in exchange for rent. These companies require the client to provide his own lock to the storage unit, and terms can be arranged as to whether the rent is on a short or long term basis. For those in need, the benefits of self storage can be really encouraging. First, you are assured of the security for your excess personal items. These items may just be considered extras, but self storage companies put a lot of importance on ensuring protection for your items. Aside from the lock you provide, self storage companies may also offer security cameras, individual door alarms, electric doors or gates, personal pin numbers and flood-lighting, to name a few. Furthermore, all these protection systems are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, for the entire year, giving you your much needed peace of mind.

You are also assured of your items safety, because most of these self storage facilities have regular pest control programs and are kept clean, keeping away pests as much as possible. Measures are also taken to protect your personal items from water damage. You can also access these self storage facilities any time that is convenient for you.

You also do not have to worry if your personal items can fit in the storage unit, because self-storage facilities come in a wide range of sizes. It really depends on how many goods you wish stored, and in what size they can actually fit.

So, if you have those excess items at home that you do not want to dispose of but want removed temporarily and stored somewhere else in order to free some space, you can rely on your friendly self storage company to take good care of your precious belongings.  With self storage, you can store almost anything, from your valuable collections to your important documents, apparel, shoes, everything.

Drew Mers is an advertising consultant to City Closet Self Storage, one of the largest independently owned self storage companies with New York self storage and New Jersey self storage

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Helpful Tips for Choosing a Self-Storage Facility

When the time comes that you would need to use a storage facility, don't just go for what is nearest you or the cheapest in the list. Your belongings are valuable (otherwise you wouldn't be keeping them) and you need to ensure that they will be kept with utmost care until such time that you can bring them back home with you or decide what to do with them after. Remember that self-storage facilities are services and as such you need to consider certain important factors before committing to getting one. Here are some useful tips to guide you in your decision:

1. Check the condition and safety of the facility.

All self-storage facilities would guarantee that your belongings are safe from theft or vandalism but don't just take their word for it. Make a physical inspection of the building and its surrounding environment. Is it in a safe area or neighborhood? Has the company invested in a security system or any device? A basic security system for a self-storage facility would include a video surveillance system, heavy duty locks for each storage unit and a security alarm. There are even self-storage facilities with gates outfitted with access codes for the individual units and locks with their own alarm device. If the company has taken measures to install state-of-the art security systems check this off your list of requirement.

Equally important is the condition of the self-storage facility. Check that the unit is clean, well-lit, properly ventilated, dry and pest-free. The roofing and gutters should also be in good condition, with no cracks, leaks or debris.

2. It helps to deal with friendly and reliable staff.

A good self-storage business employs people who are customer service-oriented. There should be a manager that you can consult with and who can resolve any concerns you may have about the facility and staff members who are courteous and readily available to help you. If there is no one around every time you come to access your unit or if the staff cannot be easily reached when you need them, this can be a red flag for a badly-managed facility.

3. Consider the variety in the sizes of the unit.

Once you have determined the amount of items that you will be storing, shop around for a self-storage facility that offers a range of unit sizes. You don't want to pay for a unit that fits an entire car when all you need is a small one for your belongings. The smallest standard unit is 5 x 5 feet which is equivalent to a small closet space and can go up to 24 x 25 feet enough to fit a boat, RV or trailer and other items.

4. Read the contract and its fine prints.

Make sure to read and understand the terms and conditions before committing to rent the unit. Aside from the monthly cost of the unit, check out for any other extra charges that the company may have. Some charges to look for include penalties for late payments, extra dues for insurance, early termination of contract or security deposits.

For more information on Self Storage visit http://www.mystorageworks.com.

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Top Tips When Using Self Storage

Whether it's at home or in the office, the vast majority of us struggle to find the space we need in order to store all our furniture, office equipment and other household items. Because of this the number of people putting their belongings into self storage over the last few years has rapidly increased. Whether this is something you already do or it's something you are considering for the future, below are some tip tops to help you get the most out of your self storage experience.

Packing

How you pack your items is crucial because the less space you take up when packing, the more you can fit into your unit. Even if you don't need all the space now, it's handy knowing that you have the option of putting additional things into storage in the future. As well as saving space, clever packing also makes the task a lot quicker, easier to manage and you can ensure that your goods will be protected properly while they are being stored.

Use protective wrap on anything fragile because this will prevent scratches, dents and breakages.

Label all your boxes so if you need to collect something at a later date, you'll be able to find it without the need to rummage through all your boxes.

Only ever pack bedding and clothes in boxes. Storing such items in plastic bags can sometimes lead to 'sweating' which will cause moisture damage.

Protect your belongings

There is a huge range of purpose-made protective packaging available so you can ensure that your belongings will be as safe as possible whilst being kept in self storage.

Bubble wrap is ideal for larger items such as TVs and other electrical appliances.

Acid free tissue protects glassware and crockery.

Void fill - you can use this to fill the gaps in between your goods to keep them in place. This is a great way of minimising damage - especially during transportation.

Dust sheets - place these over and under items likes chairs, sofas, mattresses and anything else that hasn't been boxed up to prevent them from getting ruined and dusty.

Moisture absorbers - place these in boxes to prevent damp penetrating your goods. These are a must-have if you are storing your items for a long period of time otherwise you may return to find valuable items have been ruined by damp.

When you arrive at your self storage unit

All good storage facilities should have staff on hand to help you if you need it. There are a number of things you should think about once you arrive however:

Have you valued your goods correctly? This is very important so you can receive the right level of insurance cover.

Are there certain items you will need to access regularly? If so, make sure these are stored at the front so you can get to them easily. Alternatively, racking units are perfect for those who need to access multiple items on a regular basis.

In order to make the most out of the space you have, stack boxes properly. Start at the back and make your way towards the front, using any smaller, single items to fill in the gaps as you go along.

MStore offers self storage for all your domestic, business and specialist requirements. To use the space calculator, find your nearest store or view our special offers, please visit our website

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Who Needs Self Storage Units?

Self storage units are secure, low cost and a great way to make life simpler. There are many reasons why people store items away from their home or business premises.

One reason is for temporary storage between homes. Perhaps you have sold your home but haven't bought or built a new one yet. If you are staying with friends or in a motel while you wait for your new home, a self storage unit is a great way to keep all your furniture and belongings safe.

Or perhaps you are about to travel. Your luggage allocation only allows for clothing and a few other personal items. So what do you do with all your stuff if you're travelling overseas for an extended time? Mum and Dad probably don't want to store it all in their garage, so the best solution is a self storage facility to keep your belongings in long term. You'll be able to have fun on your big OE, knowing that everything you own is safe and secure.

Self storage units are also the ideal place to store valuable items that you don't feel comfortable with having in the home. Valuable items, both large and small, will be safe and secure in a monitored and alarmed self storage container. Another reason why people use self storage facilities is to prepare for a house sale. A decluttered home looks bigger and sells faster, so storing your extra furniture and boxes away from the home makes good sense.

Many homes come with garages for the family car. The idea is that the car will be more secure and last longer if it's stored in a garage. However, some families can't fit the car in the garage because the garage is full of sports gear, tools, bikes, camping gear, boxes, games, gardening gear, spare furniture and things that just cannot be thrown away. One way to solve that problem is to rent a self storage unit for all the stuff in the garage and put the car back where it's meant to be.

Business people love self storage units. They're a great way to keep archived documents and records at a low cost. Commercial space is much more expensive than the rental on a self storage unit, so it makes good business sense to keep documents in the security and controlled environment of a self storage unit. Many units have specially designed facilities for storing documents, including racks for easy storage and retrieval. Shop owners also find self storage containers extremely helpful. They're a great way to store shipments of new stock that are not quite ready to be put on the shelves.

Finally, when the kids leave the nest, they don't usually take all their stuff. If you throw it away, you'll never be forgiven. So the ideal solution is to put the kids' stuff in a self storage unit until they have space to look after it themselves. Then everyone's happy!

Guardian Self Storage Units is a provider of clean, safe, flexible and affordable self storage options for all your personal and business storage needs.

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Meaghan Ramsey: Why Thinking You're Ugly is Bad for You

About 10,000 people a month Google the phrase, “Am I ugly?” Meaghan Ramsey of the Dove Self-Esteem Project has a feeling that many of them are young girls. In a deeply unsettling talk, she walks us through the surprising impacts of low body and image confidence—from lower grade point averages to greater risk-taking with drugs and alcohol. And then shares the keys things all of us can to disrupt this reality.

Why College Students Value Self Storage Units

College students are notorious for their uncanny ability to acquire vast amounts of "stuff" in their door rooms and apartments. When they move back to their parent's home for the summer or graduate into a new home, some of the belongings they have accumulated may not fit or be welcome. That is why every college student (and parents of college students!), should consider self storage as a way to ensure the safe storage of their student's stuff.

Self Storage for Students:

Looking for somewhere to store all the collegiate memorabilia you've accumulated over the year? Perhaps your parents won't appreciate or allow some of your coveted college "decorations"? Self storage provides the perfect solution. With self storage, your parents don't even have to know what sort of out-there collections you've amassed--in fact, no one does. Part of the security of self storage units is that you are the only person who has a key. So you and you alone control who has access to your belongings.

Many self storage facilities use closed-circuit video surveillance systems to monitor the comings and goings of all customers and associates. Plus, modern storage units are equipped keypad-controlled access and individual door alarms, providing additional levels of security.

For college students traveling for a semester abroad, a self storage unit provides a great alternate to moving everything back home. Simply store your items at a storage facility near campus and when you come back from traveling, you'll have everything you need to re-establish your college home. The beauty of a storage unit is it provides an excellent option to keep your things safe and secure--allowing you to travel and explore the world without worrying about whether your parents are 'helping you' get organized by throwing away a bunch of your things.

Self storage is not just for your school's summer and winter breaks, however. Many students securing jobs out-of-town after college are faced with the prospect of having to throw out many of their prized collegiate possessions because of apartment size and storage restrictions. If you cannot bear to part with your collection of memorabilia, and know that you will regret selling it when you eventually purchase a home with enough room to house it, securing your belongings in your own self storage unit is the perfect way to keep your things out of sight, but certainly not out of mind. You'll find residential storage to be a great way to remove clutter from your home.

When the summer is over, or you finally can afford that big apartment, you can pick up your things from the self storage facility and bring them home to enjoy.
Self Storage for Parents:

Your home is your haven and having a college student at home for the summer can definitely create a little chaos. Add boxes of 'school stuff' that litter his/her room or worse your prized garage, closet or attic space--and you're organized home just got a little "unlivable."

Using a self storage unit to keep these items close to school (and out of your house!) is a great way to save your own home's organization, while allowing your student to keep his/her belongings and save the effort of lugging all that stuff home! It also gives your student the opportunity to assume some responsibility. He/she will be responsible for moving in and out of the unit--and while the items are stored, he/she will be the only one with the key to his storage unit. Giving your child the responsibility to store his valuables while away at college is good 'training' as a future homeowner, as he/she learns the lesson that clutter can be remedied without having to throw away priceless memories.

Self storage is the perfect solution for both parents and college students. Self storage units provide a safe, secure, and affordable way to store every valuable belonging--even when it's that famous bottle cap collection.

Mr. Kleindienst is a self storage company executive. He works for Safeguard self storage, a self storage facility that offers various self storage units.

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Top Tips To Consider When Searching For The Right Self-Storage Facility

More people are searching for the right self-storage facility that can house their belongings, especially since both people and businesses are downsizing to save expenses. This has caused a boom in the self-storage market which can be found in almost any area where you live or plan to move to. Even small towns will have a self-storage facility that can be utilized for business or personal needs. With so many choices for storage it is important to know about the business where you will be storing your valuables. Here is some insight into the self-storage facilities that are available.

Consider The Usefulness Of A Storage Unit

In the past storage facilities consisted of companies that would pack your belongings and store them for a cost. This was very restrictive and costly, so people started looking towards places where they could store their goods more economically while allowing them the freedom to easily control when they had access. In the beginning people would search for an empty garage or warehouse that was looking for some added income, which eventually turned the self-storage facilities into a thriving business. People wanted to know that the space that they were renting was secure and that they could come and go without the worry of additional costs. The self-storage facilities provide this and more.

Take A Guided Search For A Self-Storage Facility

Since there are so many facilities available that have self-storage it is important to find a reputable company that will take care of your property. When you start searching for the right facility it means asking some direct questions about the policies and procedures of the facility, along with checking out business ethics and terms. The area in which the facility is housed, as well as the facility itself is a good indication of whether your items will be safe. But there are other means of security that should be questioned such as video cameras and alarms. What are their policies on people coming and going? Both of these areas should be checked into. In addition to this, you want a company that is customer friendly.

The Keys To A Self-Storage Agreement?

An agreement is a contract between the self-storage facility and yourself stating that they are renting you a space the size that you require and in exchange you will pay a monthly fee to guarantee that space is yours to use. The agreements spell out the terms of your rental of the space and will include such things as what happens if you do not pay your rental fee or if you terminate your agreement what will be charged for usage. Most reputable companies will not charge you for additional fees, but may require a deposit or first month's rental fee up front.

It should also be noted that in some cases if you do not pay your fees after a certain amount of time that the storage facility has a right to hold your belongings until payment is received, or until you waive the right to the contents in the storage unit.

Ben Wells is a self storage expert, managing several Self Storage Facilities in the western United States. He also contributes articles with tips for organizing and moving and self-storage at several websites.

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Useful Tips For Storing Items In Self Storage

Self storage is very beneficial to many people these days. Thanks to these rental units, families and business owners today can keep their valuable belongings in a safe place for as long as they want and at a price they can well afford.

When using these self storage units, however, it is important to know how to pack your items properly and organize them. This will make sure that you keep your personal belongings in good condition and allow you to easily access them if the need arises.

Packing tips

The packing process should not be that difficult if you have the right materials and you know how to organize your stuff. Use sturdy boxes if possible because sealed plastic bags are prone to mildew buildup when moisture creeps in. Apart from the boxes, the other materials you will need are a marker, packing tape, scissors or cutter, paper, bubble wrap, towels and Styrofoam.

When packing your items, fill boxes to capacity to avoid breakages. But keep in mind not to make them very heavy. What you should do is to divide the heavy items into several boxes. Make sure to put the heavy ones on the bottom first and fill the top part with lighter items.

Fragile or breakable items including antiques will have to be wrapped individually. Use plain paper and not the newspaper to avoid staining ceramics, glasses and mirrors. Do fill in gaps using bubble wrap, paper or towels to keep the items steady during transport and storage.

Labeling all the sides of your boxes is also very important for easy identification of the contents. Mark breakable items as fragile.

Organizing tips

Organize your boxes in the self storage unit in a way that you can access your items easily. Create an alley in between the stacks of boxes particularly in the center, sides and the back part so you can move around if you need to access items every now and then.

If you don't want the boxes to touch the floor space, you can first put protective sheeting or boards on the floor. This will protect your items from moisture buildup.

When stacking your boxes, put the heaviest ones on the bottom first to avoid damaging items in the other boxes. The lighter ones should then be placed on top. Stack boxes of similar sizes to save on space.

As for furniture, keep them away from the walls. Metal objects should also not rest on other items that are prone to damage.

If you have large appliances to store such as drawers, fridges and washing machines, you can also fill them with small boxes and other items to maximize available space.

Finally, you can use moisture absorbers, deodorizes and vermin bait if you doubt the environment at your preferred storage facility. But you can always ask the management first about the pest control system they implement within their premises.

Keep in mind that you will only enjoy your peace of mind if you have packed your items well and organized them properly in the self storage unit.

For information on self storage units visit MyStorageWorks.com, a leading self storage company in the Maryland and Pennsylvania area.

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Moving Furniture to a New Home Or Self-Storage

Moving furniture to a new home or a self storage unit is a job that takes more than one person and some preparation. With that in mind, here are some tips and tricks from professional removers to help you make the move easier and trouble free.

Take the time to measure your largest furniture items, like beds, wardrobes and sofas to ensure you can fit them in the storage space you have rented or through the doors in your new home. Remember to measure the stairs because narrow stairs with a tight turn may stop you manhandling that huge bed in to the room.

If your furniture does not fit, then dismantle the big items before the move day.

Size and shape makes a sofa difficult to move. Professional movers neatly remove the material on the base o9f the sofa and feel inside the arms. Often they are bolted to the frame and can be removed with a spanner. The same goes for bulky armchairs.

Remove cushions and loose covers for transportation and storage. Any covering that cannot be removed needs protecting with a removal blanket or thick plastic to avoid hand prints, scuffs and scrapes.

Tables and chairs, especially those with glass, marble or granite tables should be dismantled with the top separated, wrapped and marked with a fragile sticker. Wood tables need careful handling and protection to stop scratches and warps.

Wrap table and chair legs with bubble wrap and then tape cardboard around the padding.

Fill up any dresser or chest drawers with small, light or fragile items cushioned in tissue or bubble wrap. Tape plastic wrap around the drawers so nothing can fall out when they are lifted. Do not over fill drawers as the weight makes lifting difficult. Carry dressers and chests with drawers taken out as they are a lot lighter. Protect the frame with plastic bubble wrap or a blanket to look after the finish.

Dismantle a bed frame to make moving easier. If you have a divan bed, take out the under bed drawers to lighten the task. Mattresses should be wrapped in a mattress cover or heavy plastic, like a sofa.

Pete Simpson is a home removals and business removals professional who also has interests in a self storage business based in London. He has written this guide as part of several packing, removals and self storage articles aimed at helping students, householders and businesses save time, effort and money. Find out more about self storage in London at http://www.lockaway.co.uk/

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Self Storage - Tips and Tricks For Packing And Moving

Self storage facilities are used by thousands of people today. Whether you are relocating or are trying to free up some space in the home or in the office, making use of self storage facilities is a good idea. Apart from providing enough space for your belongings, they also offer the much needed security for your belongings, convenience and value.

But, before you make the big move, it is important for you to learn some essential tips and tricks of packing and moving. Self storage tips and tricks will not only ensure that your move is a hassle free one, but it will also ensure that your valuables and belongings are stored safely. Let us take a look at some of the essential self storage tips and tricks for packing and moving.

1. Proper planning is the key to success. When you plan your move properly, you will have an effective and an efficient storage experience. If you are planning to use a space on a frequent basis, choosing a larger unit may be more convenient.

2. Plan your storage space. If there are items which you will be accessing on a regular basis, they can be placed right in the front.

3. allow for walkways

4. When filling boxes, make sure you put heavier items at the bottom of the boxes. Completely fill the boxes with the lighter items on the top.

5. If the boxes are of uniform size, it is going to be easy for you to stack them in the storage unit.

6. There are certain items which may be prohibited and not allowed to be kept in storage facilities. Read the contract to determine which items are not allowed.

7. For easy identification, label all the boxes.

8. Allow for ventilation by leaving small gaps between the wall of the boxes and your items.

9. When choosing a lock for your unit, make sure you choose a high quality lock such as a disc lock.
These are quite hard to break and will ensure that your belongings are safe.

10. Make an inventory of all the items you have placed in storage. Keep the inventory in a safe place.

11. When packing fragile items such as glasses and dishes, use packing paper to wrap them up individually. Nest bowls and cups and stand saucers, platters and plates on the edge. Place wrapped glasses near the top of the box. Use packing material to fill all pockets. Label all boxes with fragile items and do not place other heavy boxes on the boxes containing fragile items.

12. Concrete floors can become cold and damp and for this reason, clothing items must be stored on hangers. If you do not have hanging cartons, fold the clothing items carefully and store them in cedar chests and dresser drawers.

Following these simple self storage tips and tricks will ensure that you have a pleasant storage experience. In addition, it will also help you determine the unit size that you will need for all your storage items making the whole thing more cost effective and convenient for you.

Are you considering Plymouth self storage? Visit our website and we will help you find the perfect Plymouth self storage unit for all your storage needs.

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10 Reasons Why Renting a Storage Space is Better Than Your Attic

Have you taken a peek into your attic lately? If it has been months or even years since you poked around in that crowded attic of yours, perhaps it is time you considered using a storage facility. Storage facilities are a fantastic solution for anyone looking to "de-clutter" their life.

If you know that Martha Stewart would have a heart attack just from looking into your attic then maybe it's time you took that step forward and start re-claiming your life and your belongings.

There are several reasons why renting a storage space is better than your attic. For your benefit, we listed them out here below:

1. Storage units are easily accessible. When you rent a storage space, you will not have to duck under two by fours or walk on the rafters to find something specific. Everything you need is right there in front of you.

2. You can never be certain what is lurking in your attic. Rodents, have field days in your attic, making their nests out of your belongings. At a storage facility, you can rest assured that your treasures are free from pests.

3. Your attic is not always protected from bad weather where as a storage unit is safe and secure from the outside elements.

4. You can free up some space in your home. Who would not love a little extra room? With a storage space you are guaranteed to free up plenty of space.

5. You won't have to worry about parting ways with your prized belongings. Old baby clothes and toys that you are holding onto for keepsakes will be better protected in a storage facility than in your house.

6. Your things will remain protected from criminals. In the world we live in today you can never be guaranteed that you will not be robbed. Because of the security measures taken at most storage facilities, you can be certain that you will have less of a chance for theft.

7. You can de-clutter your life and begin to feel organized. A little organization never hurt anyone and when you move some of your belongings to a storage unit you will feel the relief that organization brings.

8.If you ever decide to move, you will not have to worry about making sure you have gotten everything out of the attic. When a sudden relocation for your job is sprung on you, you do not really want to worry about cleaning the clutter in your attic that is why keeping your things in a storage space is the best solution.

9. You will never again have to climb a tiny wobbly ladder and crawl through a crammed attic to find something specific. No more bending over backwards looking through your stuff- with a storage unit, you will always be able to find just what you are looking for- it is always easily accessible to you!

10. Your belongings will be protected should there ever be a fire in your home.

Paul Darden is owner and CEO of AA @ Ben White, the only Austin self storage facility with a 24/7 onsite management team. Darden specializes in the brokering, marketing, feasibility studies, and developing of self-storage personally brokering over 130 self-storage facilities throughout the southwest to both national and regional self-storage operators. If you are looking to move and if you need public storage in Austin, Texas visit http://www.aabenwhite.com

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Why You Should Consider Self Storage

Moving requires a great deal of effort and never enough time or space. If you are going to be moving into a smaller home, you may be wondering what you are going to do with some of your things. You probably know that as soon as you get rid of anything, you are going to need it. Because of this, you are probably thinking about using self storage.

You need to carefully consider the size of storage that you are going to need. After all, the larger the unit, the more money you are going to have to pay. If you end up getting rid of some things after a few months, you can always downsize to a smaller self storage unit to save some money. However, don't get rid of anything that you know you are going to need. Depending on what will be stored in the unit, you may also want to check into climate control. This way, you won't have to worry about it being too hot or too cold inside your unit.

Now, you are going to need to think about the different characteristics that need in a unit. You need to think about how much money you are willing and able to spend each month. You also need to think about location. Location is very important when it comes to your storage. You also need to think about things such as climate control, 24 hour access, and of course, something inside a gated area.

Next, consider how much money you can afford to spend and what you are looking for in a storage unit, you can look online for ideas. If you find a storage facility near your home and it has everything that you need, you can stop by to look at a unit in person. If everything seems okay, you can ask to look over their contract. If you like what you see, go ahead and sign it and you should be able to start moving your things and right away.

It is important to understand that you are going to need to supply your own lock. If you don't already have one, you can usually buy one for less than $10. Because you will be providing your own lock, you will be the only one who has a key. This will give you peace of mind regarding leaving your possessions in self storage. You can leave your items for as long as you like as long as you are keeping up with your monthly payments. Beware, however, if you fall behind on your monthly payment, you may lose the things that you have in storage.

For more information on Self Storage visit http://www.mystorageworks.com.

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Mac Barnett: Why a Good Book is a Secret Door

Childhood is surreal. Why shouldn't children's books be? In this whimsical talk, award-winning author Mac Barnett speaks about writing that escapes the page, art as a doorway to wonder — and what real kids say to a fictional whale.

When Is The Right Time To Use Self Storage?

Various situations in life require the use of self storage. Whether you're single, married, divorced or a business owner that need additional space to store personal belongings as well as stocks of products, utilizing a storage unit proves to be very helpful.

Any time you feel the need for extra storage space is the best time to seek a good facility that can meet your needs. Don't wait too long but take action right away and find a unit where you can keep your valued possessions. For sure, there's one near your place.

Home renovation. Most homeowners always want to make the place where they live as comfortable as possible for themselves and their family. Renovation and remodeling works then are inevitable. But with this also comes much work such as moving furniture, appliances, decors and other accessories to give way to the people who will be remodeling the house.

Having people in the house with your things disorganized can be quite annoying. So why not put your personal belongings first in a self storage unit for a month or so to free up your space at home.

Seasonal storage. People who don't have a big garage might find rental units useful for storing seasonal items. These can include Christmas trees, snow blower, lawn mower and sprinkler systems and the like. As these devices are used only during certain months, you can store them separately during off season.

Home selling. Some homeowners don't necessarily want to dispose all of their personal possessions when selling their residential property. While they may include certain appliances and furniture in the sale, they still want to keep the other ones particularly those that have sentimental values to them. To keep your valuables in safe place while you're still searching for the right buyer, it would be a good idea to use a self storage unit. Remember that home buyers are particular about space and organization in a home the reason why you need to declutter before putting your house for sale.

By utilizing a rental unit, you can have your peace of mind and not worry all the time about the safety of your belongings. This is whether you're still staying in your old home or have already moved to your new abode.

Too many documents. Having a business can result in a large pile of paper work. Despite the introduction of digital technology, some business owners still prefer to keep hard copies of important documents.

But if you have accumulated volumes of paper and no space to keep them in your office or home office, then it's time to store them in a self storage unit. You don't have to get a big unit because there are small units available these days. And the best part is you apart from your papers, you can store there your stocks and other office equipment that are no longer used.

So you see, you may need a storage unit at the most unexpected time. What matters is you choose one that's near your place and with the right security features.

For information on self storage facilities visit MyStorageWorks.com, a leading self storage company in the Maryland and Pennsylvania area.

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The Many Benefits And Uses Of A Self-Storage Unit

Who hasn't at one point in their lives complained about not having enough space or a bigger room? This is why the self-storage facility was created and why it has been one of the fastest growing industries in the last two centuries. Aside from owning your own house or your own business address, a self-storage unit may be the next best piece of real estate you need to consider. Here are some of the many purposes and reasons for getting one:

1. A mover's convenient back-up plan. Say you're about to move to a new home, back with your new family or you're a student moving into your college dormitory. Whether it's a planned change of address or an unforeseen circumstance, a self-storage unit can help ease that worry about getting all of your things from one house to the next - especially if you are making the move on a limited time. Renting a self-storage unit for a month or two will help ease the stress and worry about renting a big van just so you can haul out your stuff in one day and then finding out that there is not enough space in the new home.

2. When you're renovating or remodeling your house. Self-storage units are a great help when you need to secure your valuable property for a short period of time while you're repairing or expanding a section of your home. Most of the self-storage facilities these days are equipped with state-of-the-art security systems so you can have peace of mind that your stuff is protected.

3. Start and keep your own collection. If you have a growing collection of artwork, photographic equipment or anything which you feel needs a special place that your current home does not have, renting a self-storage facility can be a practical solution. There is a growing number of self-storage facilities designed to hold special collections of items. They can be built underground for sub-zero temperatures, with sound-proofed or shock-proof walls, climate-controlled or computer monitored. There are even self-storage units that are designed like wine cellars complete with a wine-tasting section. You don't have to worry about incurring expensive construction costs in your own house but still keep your collection protected from the elements.

4. An affordable extension of your garage. Dreaming of buying a boat but don't have the space in your property to put it in? Using your garage for other things than parking your cars? Consider a self-storage unit. They are affordable alternatives to building a second garage. Aside from this, you can rest assured that they won't be stolen or vandalized unlike if they're just covered with a tarp and parked in front of your house.

5. Warehouse space for your small business. Small or start-up businesses like catering, selling food stuff or even selling online can benefit from a self-storage unit which will hold the extra inventory of goods you can't store in your house. With a self-storage unit you can keep track and monitor what goes in and out and arrange them according to your business needs.

For more information on Self Storage visit http://www.mystorageworks.com.

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