Choosing Your Self Storage Facility

Many of us find ourselves in a situation where we have accumulated too many possessions to fit our home. This is when we find it necessary to rent a self-storage unit. If you are in the market for a self-storage unit you should take the time to make sure it is in a quality self storage unit. There are many self storage locations to choose from all around the country but they are not all equal. Some facilities will offer more options and better security than another facility. A quality self storage facility may cost a little more each month but the peace of mind you will have will be worth the extra cost.

The first thing that you need to consider when choosing a self storage facility is the location of the facility. Many people make many trips to and from their self storage unit, so you will want to find one that is as close to your home as possible. One thing to consider about location, is if a better facility is a little further, it is still better to choose the most secure self storage facility. Having the unit close to home is important, but knowing that your property is in a safe storage facility is more important. Another consideration when it comes to location is the ease of access. Is the facility close to a well traveled road or highway, or is it off the beaten path down a back road.

The next consideration when choosing a self storage location is the security of the facility. A minimum-security storage facility should be fenced all around the property. It should be well lit and bright for those times when you need to make a visit after dark. The gate to the property should have a computerized locking system that requires an individual password to unlock the gate. The facility should have some form of video surveillance system in place. The doors to the individual units should be heavy gauge metal with a heavy gauge hasp for your padlock.

Unit sizes are also an important consideration when choosing a self storage facility. The facility should offer a wide range of different sized units. The unit sizes should be in the ranges of 5' x 5' for a small unit to 10' x 30' or larger for the largest units. This gives you many options when it comes to choosing the proper unit for your property. You do not want to pay the cost of a large unit if all of your property will fit into a small unit.

The last consideration when choosing a storage facility is the price of the unit. Making sure that you get the best price will require you to do some research. The better the facility is the more you will have to pay for the unit, but the price should still be within the standards for the area where you live. If you locate a facility where prices are far below other facilities in the area, use caution renting at that facility. There will usually be a reason for the lower cost, and that is usually because the facility is sub-par.

Hopefully these tips have helped you get a good idea of some of the differences in the Denver storage units out there. Many storage facilities offer self storage but lack some of the above perks. If you are considering a Denver storage unit, I recommend Colorado Self Storage Facility. They have 5 great locations across the metro and all offer RV storage.

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Moving, Packing, Self Storage Tips

Moving is an exciting process that can build stronger family ties and relationships if you included all of your members. However, packing and preparing for the move is an extremely stressful and daunting task, and it can hurt relationships if mishandled and unplanned. No matter whether you are moving, packing or preparing for self storage, here are some tips to help you out.

Proper planning

Proper and detailed planning is the most crucial step. You need to know what to do, how to do and when to do things. You will need to understand what the things you intend to move or pack are and how you want to do it. Knowing how many things you have will allow helps you out when you are shopping for storage and moving boxes. You can also know the self storage unit size you will need to rent depending on the number of items you have.

Using sturdy boxes

Although you can get cheap or even free boxes from the electrical store, they do not last long or hold well. Sturdy boxes are made of thicker materials and are coated with a thin layer of polyethylene to provide a fair amount of water resistance. They are also stuck together using strong glues which allows them to hold more weight compared to cheaper and inferior boxes. Although they are much more expensive, they offer better protection and security. You do not wish to have your items dropping out of the boxes do you?

Labeling the boxes

Labeling the boxes will allow anyone to know what exactly is inside and will allow them to understand how best to treat the boxes. For example, if you label the box as fragile, no one in the right mind will throw it around. Instead, they will handle with extra care. Labelling also helps you to find your things easily in a shorter period of time.

Using protective fillings

When you are storing fragile items, you should use protective fillings such as bubble wraps and foam peanuts. These protective materials are made to absorb and cushion any shock and impact and fracture in place of your items. Although they may cost extra money, the reduced risk is worth it all.

Moving and packing is never an easy task and will often cause many people to get frustrated. However, it can be easy and simple tasks if you fully understand what you need to do and the tender loving care you need to express towards your items.

Running out of space at home? We introduce you Big Orange where professional storage tips and storage space will be offered to maximize your storage space.

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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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Diana Nyad: Never, Ever Give Up

In the pitch-black night, stung by jellyfish, choking on salt water, singing to herself, hallucinating ... Diana Nyad just kept on swimming. And that's how she finally achieved her lifetime goal as an athlete: an extreme 100-mile swim from Cuba to Florida -- at age 64. Hear her story.

Why Would You Want To Use Self Storage?

Storage as a concept is not a new idea. People who have special treasures and trinkets have been looking for ways to keep them safe from the earliest days of mankind and other have been looking for ways to take what they want from people who cannot protect and defend what they have. It may sound like a primitive instinct to protect and keep safe our things, after all it is just stuff but then having certain things buys you status in your community so it has become a natural thing to want what others have.

Storage becomes a part of this equation when you have not got the space to storage your precious objects and items. In modern times, simply throwing away things has become unpopular, holding onto things till they age and become valuable is more sensible with certain items, sentiment can also be a reason to hold onto something and family heirlooms can also be items you want to keep but do not necessarily have the room for. There are many TV shows that deal with antiques, hoarders and storage and they are popular because people want to know what others have and what they are worth. Value can sometime be a relative thing and so can space, sometime storage space itself is of value.

People who need storage do not always need it for personal items, there are people who need professional items stored and in the days of phising, hacking and identity theft it is unthinkable for a company to dispose of sensitive information without following guidelines. But what about the paper you need to keep, signed documents that may not have been scanned onto computer. These would need to be stored until this is possible.

Another category of person who might look into self storage is people who just have too much stuff for the size of their home, a family who want to convert a loft for a bedroom would find they have nowhere to store their winter/summer clothes, seasonal items such as sledges or Christmas decorations, skiing/gym/sports equipment or even furniture. Sometimes people do not use items throughout the year and storing bulky items for a whole year you only use for a month out of the year can be frustrating, especially with thing that have cost a great deal of money.

Self storage offers both professional and personal means of protecting thing which are valuable and would not want to be lost, that could cause harm to someone in the wrong hands or would simply be valuable. Self storage units can give a peace of mind to owners that these items are secured, protected and safe.

Reese Goodman works as a freelance writer for a number of companies and has an active interest in the amount of living space people have in big cities including the use of self storage in London. For more information visit ABC Selfstore who are experts in the field.

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The History of Self Storage

The history of self storage begins much farther back than most think. Buz Victor (who founded the Self Storage Association), while on a trip to China discovered that people had been keeping their personal belongings in clay pots for over six thousand years. These pots were deposited in underground storage areas, and were monitored to make sure nobody could access any jar but their own. Later on British dignitaries would vacation or be away for extended periods of time, they too would seek personal storage - they would often hire banking companies to keep their valuables secure, and the banks in turn would go to moving companies. These companies would secure lofts or stables, and store the valuables in crates inside, often putting watchmen nearby.

We can all learn about the do's and don'ts of storing goods and belongings by examining the history of self storage. For example, security has forever been one of the main reasons people seek personal storage, and remains one of the most (if not the most) important aspect of it today. The history of self storage shows us that originally, whoever was charged with taking care of valuables would retain responsibility in the event that they were lost or destroyed. For example, if a loft for a British aristocrat were burned down, the bank would be held responsible.

However, with the advent of self storage, the responsibility is retained by the customer (unless theft or damage is due to a flaw or neglect on the proprietor's part). Self storage owners do not have access to customer's goods (except in the event of a lien, or failure to pay rent, in which case the goods can be sold at public auction), which was unheard of in the history of self storage until now, and security therefore is usually maintained now through cameras. Further back in the history of self storage, even up until today, the main means of security was through guards or complex locks. The modern equivalent, available on upscale storage units, is the electronic thumbprint reader.

The first facility in the history of self storage (as we now know it) was in Odessa, Texas, and was called "A1 U-Store-It, U-Lock-It, U-Carry the Key." Russ Williams, who had worked in the oil industry for much of his life, enjoyed fishing in his free time and needed somewhere to keep extra equipment and boats. He realized other firms in the oil industry could use similar storage units for commercial purposes, and so bought a group of apartments and garages. They more or less sold themselves.

Possibly the most important lesson to draw from the history of self storage is an obvious one: as long as there are things, people will need somewhere to put them.

Schmitt and Co has been in the Self Storage Management industry for over 30 years. From day to day management to long term goal setting, we are the self storage experts.

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Small Businesses - The Natural Customers Of Self-Storage Facilities

Big and small businesses alike have a need for storage facilities. While most warehouses suit the needs of big businesses because of the bulk of their inventory and documents for storing, the same warehouses may just be too much for the actual needs of small businesses. Self-storage facilities are just right for start-up and small businesses.

Business Operation According to Size

Businesses should operate within their own levels if they expect to maximize their potentials. Small businesses cannot afford to absorb unnecessary expenses in the same way that big businesses cannot afford to scrimp on expenses if it will be to the detriment of their operation. Renting a big warehouse when a smaller facility will do just fine is an example of a small business' unnecessary expense. The opposite is not a smart decision for big companies as well.

In essence, businesses will always have to consider the stage where it's at and apply it in making critical decisions, There will always be decisions to make in the number of workforce, the size of business areas, the amount of capitalization, and the need to avail of it for smoother business operation. Here lies the importance of knowing the real state of businesses.

The Right Options are Always Available

Without trying too hard, businesses will find out that all options that will allow them to conduct their operation smoothly are always available. However, they may need to find the correct information required to make the right decisions. Information about self-storage facilities can be found online.

There are even directories featured which can point a potential client to the nearest and most convenient location offered. What is important to know is that there are options such as those offered by it. There is absolutely no reason not to take advantage of its offered benefits.

The Benefits of Self-Storage Facilities for Small Businesses

The obvious benefit that self-storage facilities offer to small businesses that need the service is cost and convenience. The cost is much lower to rent a self-storage facility than a warehouse. It is also much more convenient to have a separate yet accessible storage facility than to occupy a large part of the business area that can still be allocated for more productive use.

Most storage facilities allow their customers to access their stored items 365 days a week. Customers also have security control over their own units since they use their own lock and key. This is in addition to the overall security provided by self-storage companies to the whole facility.

Self-storage facilities are also able to offer more personalized services such as pick-up and delivery without requiring a big quantity to be transported from one place to another. Customers usually do not prefer to be bothered by logistics. Reliable self-storage facilities can take care of that aspect for their clients. Some even offer a filing system that can be used by customers storing their important documents.

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

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Selecting the Right Self Storage Facility

No matter whether you are using self storage for your own personal storage or business needs, you need to take time to select to right self storage facility. Selecting a self storage facility is for at least a month but most people will store for at least 6 months. Getting the right self storage facility will make your experience a nice one but a wrong one can create hell for you. So how do you go about selecting the right self storage facility for your needs?

How frequent do you access the unit

Frequency of you accessing the storage unit is an important criterion in selecting a facility. If you access it on a daily basis, you need one that is either located in a convenient place or one that is close to you. If you hardly visit the unit, location does not matter that much.

Knowing the storage unit sizes available

You want the storage company to accommodate to your needs and not you having to accommodate to them. What's the point of you trying to suit them when you are paying their salary? If you have a container of items to store and the storage unit is unable to fit them in, resulting in the need to split into 2 separate units, there's really no point in doing so. There are other storage companies with better facilities vying for your business.

Value for money or money?

Some people look at value for money packages while some look at money on its own. No matter what, you cannot have the best of both worlds. The cheapest rent will often mean that you are losing out in one way or another be it security or facilities available. A wise customer will always make sure he gets the most value for money deal.

Presence of an on-site manager

Believe it or not, the presence of an on-site manager matters a lot in the decision to select a storage facility. You want someone representing the company who is experienced and when things goes wrong, remedial actions can be put in place almost immediately. You do not want to have items missing from your unit and no one senior is around to attend to you.

There are so many factors involved when you are selecting your self storage facility. As a paying customer, you have the right to slowly pick and choose from so many companies out there but you also must know what you are selecting as well.

Running out of space at home? We introduce you Big Orange where professional storage tips and storage space will be offered to maximize your storage space.

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Finding a Self Storage Rental That Is Right for You

If you are running out of space at your home, then you probably need a change such as finding a self storage rental facility. When it begins to affect family relationships, you know it is a necessity. If you are a hoarder in the least, then you need to realize what this might be doing to your family. Take the time to check into self storage options that may be available in your area.

It is always a good idea to do some research before jumping into a decision that will cost you in some way. There are several things to consider as you look for the right self storage rental facility. You need to consider why you need it, what size you need, how much it will cost, and how good the customer service is at each facility that you might consider.

If you are considering a self storage rental facility, then you probably have a reason. Perhaps you are moving to a new area and you are unable to move everything at once. Perhaps you are newlyweds and have a lot of extra stuff from living single. You might want some place to store items until you can have a yard sale. Another thought is that you just might not have the space at home to store thing.

The size of unit that you need is another consideration. Take the time to put all of the items together that you need to store. Measure the space that the items take up, add a little extra for walking space and room for add-ins. Hopefully, that measurement will give you an idea of the size you need. Some places might tell you what will fit in a unit whether a one bedroom apartment or a two bedroom home.

The cost will also need to be checked out as you are looking for the right facility. The cost will likely be close among the ones in your area, but some might offer special deals for certain things, so you will need to look at your situation, and find the place that offers the best deal for what you need.

Customer service is also important. Take the time to visit each facility, call them, and talk to others who have used certain self storage rental facilities. If you thoroughly check out how customers are treated and choose one based in part on that area, then you should have a fairly good experience.

After looking into all of these areas in regard to finding a self storage rental, you hopefully can make your choice. Taking this time to research should not be something that you will regret in the future.

Looking for a self storage rental facility? Visit http://www.smartstopselfstorage.com/self-storage-units/ for more information.

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Store Anything But Not Everything In A Self Storage

Are you planning to sell your home or leaving to home for summer? Are you in need of space to keep your things temporarily? Do you feel your home or office is messing up with unused things? Here is the solution, the self storage.

Self storages are designed to store anything you wish to store. You can use them for storing your unused furniture, clothes, books, bags, office equipment, vehicles etc. Though the storage unit allows you to store anything, there are certain limitations from storing everything in it.

When you are planning to store, business or personal things, consider the restrictions on the items imposed by the storage unit. These restrictions are for security purpose, not only for you but also to the facility staff and other customers. All these will be usually documented and you need to sign a lease indicating that you adhere to all the terms and conditions proposed by the unit. Also, many self storage operators are performing background checks or procuring finger prints for safety.

Below are some of the items, which self storage units do not allow.

1. Toxic Materials: Toxic materials like fertilizers, paint, cleaning oils, biological wastes, chemicals, acids, grease etc are not be allowed to store at a self storage.

2. Flammable Materials: Gas, fireworks, fuels, kerosene, oil etc. Simply, anything which catches fire are not allowed.

3. Vehicles: Vehicles are generally acceptable at storage units, provided they are legally registered, insured and in operational status. Storage management will not allow heavier vehicles like trucks and lorries due to maintenance issues. Also, the vehicles need to be inflated before storing.

4. Food Products: Perishable foods like meat etc are not be allowed in self storage. Also items that attract pests and insects will be prohibited. However, canned foods are allowed.

5. Living Beings: Any animal / plant live or dead will not be allowed to store.

6. Radio-active materials: Any chemical or medical equipment which are radioactive should not be stored.

7. Aerosols: Aerosols or any pressurized inflammable items, which could burst and can cause accidents, are strictly prohibited at self storage units.

8. Weapons: No weapons are allowed into a self storage.

Also, items which produce heavy odor, prescriptions by doctors, heart surgery equipment, x-rays etc generally, are not be allowed in a self storage. Not all facilities will allow you to store precious jewels and antique items unless you provide an insurance proof. The reason is, higher the value, greater is the risk. Hence, prefer a storage unit to store them only if it provides high security. Electronic items like refrigerator, heaters, generators, ovens, freezers should be plugged off.

Before you pack your home or office, if you have any queries on the items to be packed, it would be better to reach out to the self storage management directly. The only concern, the management seeks for providing restrictions is security.

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

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Happy New Year!

"May every day of the new year glow with good cheer and happiness for you and your family"