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Common College Storage Mistakes

The end of a school year can be hectic. You’ve finished your exams for the semester and you’re looking forward to heading home, but where should you store your dorm room’s belongs? Look no further than Rent-A-Space Secure Storage in Roanoke and Salem, Virginia. This facility provides affordable state college storage units to the greater Virginia area, and is outfitted to fit the needs of students at the University of Virginia and Virginia Tech. Learn how to avoid common college storage mistakes when looking for affordable summer rental options through our handy guide below!

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Common College Student Mistakes to Avoid

Always Avoid Downsizing – Pick the Right Storage Size

We get it; money is tight as a college student, and you might be considering downsizing your unit to save some money. Know this – there is nothing more frustrating than running out of storage space mid-move. Consider sizing up to avoid this headache. Moving.com helps detail the amount of space you should need in their recent article on summer storage for college students. As they note, a 5×5 sized storage unit should be sufficient for a smaller dorm room; however, you should consider renting a 5×10 storage unit if you live in a two or three-bedroom apartment. You can also use Rent-A-Space’s free storage calculator to better determine what size unit you will need. Simply input the items you will store, and the calculator provides a free estimate as to how much storage space you need. Use these tips to avoid the common college mistake of renting a storage unit that is too small.

Always Avoid Clutter – Organize Your Storage Unit

Save yourself a headache when you return from summer break by properly organizing your unit from the start. Consider creating an overhead diagram or map of your storage unit’s layout. Also, be sure to create an inventory spreadsheet of your storage unit’s contents. All boxes and storage bins packed should be labeled. Additionally, be sure to take advantage of your storage unit’s “vertical space” – place large boxes at the base of your unit, and stack smaller more lightly packed boxes on top. Seasonal clothing items and textbooks can be stored close to your storage unit’s entrance for easy accessibility. Similarly, store larger items like mattresses or desks against your unit’s back wall. Utilize the right packing material – wrap larger items in packing blankets or plastic wrap to protect them while in storage. Avoid future hassle and pack your storage unit with plan!

 

Be sure to visit Rent-A-Space Secure Storage today for all of your moving and packing supplies!

Always Avoid Overpacking – Sell or Donate Unneeded Items

As we’ve previously discussed, your storage area is a finite amount of space. As such, you should only store items you will be absolutely be needing next semester – consider donating or selling any unneeded items. That bulky desk you never used, or that sagging floral print sofa in the corner? Consider donating them to an area thrift store, or you can leave them with some campus friends over the summer. You can also try to sell any unnecessary items. List the items for sale on your college campus’ message board, or place them on a local area marketplace. They might not be worth much, but remember now – the goal is to eliminate unnecessary waste.

Rent-A-Space – Locations in Salem and Roanoke, VA

Visit Rent-A-Space Storage of Virginia today for affordable state college storage units in the greater Virginia area! Rent-A-Space Secure Storage conveniently offers storage rental options in Roanoke, Virginia and Salem, Virginia. All locations feature temperature-controlled storage units, the security of gated access, and the convenience of drive-up accessible storage units. Additionally, convenient month-to-month rental options are available – this is the perfect feature for students looking for affordable summer rental options in the greater Virginia area. Come rent with us today!

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Rent-A-Space – Salem, Rent-A-Space – Roanoke – 460, Rent-A-Space – Roanoke – 220

 


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Tim Glasow

About the Author: Tim is an SEO Strategist at Storage Asset Management in York, PA. He is a self-storage industry specialist who has written about everything from storage advice and helpful resources to industry trends. In his free time, Tim enjoys sampling craft beer and exploring the local music scene.