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Self Storage Tips

Rent-A-Space: Self Storage Tips

Looking for some self storage tips to get you started on the right foot? Rent-A-Space is your first choice for affordable storage units in southwest Virginia, and we’ve compiled a list of our top packing and storage tips to help you make the most of the space you are renting. Start your storage journey with Rent-A-Space today!

rent storage online - Rent-a-Space

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

Self Storage Tips for Finding Space & Packing

Self Storage Tips

Choose Your Storage Unit 

You have many self storage options in the greater Virginia area. So how do you choose a storage facility—and more specifically storage units—to house your belongings? Start by searching for self storage close to your home, work, business, or regular commutes. You are looking for convenience as much as you are looking for product and service.  

Depending on what you need to store and how frequently you’ll need access to your belongings, different storage solutions offer various benefits and drawbacks that you’ll want to take into account. For example, drive-up storage containers make it much easier to load items from your car. However, if temperature control is important to you, indoor storage units would be a better option since they protect against weather conditions. Be sure research all options and choose the correct storage unit based off of your own specific needs.

Visit Rent-A-Space in Virginia to start getting your items organized today. Rent-A-Space offers three convenient locations in the southwest Virginia area; in Salem, VA, and two storage facilities located in Roanoke, VA. Read more about our storage facility’s specific features, and use our storage calculator to figure out what size storage unit you should rent.  

Packing and Moving

Packing Tips for Your Boxes 

1. Prep Before Packing

To ensure that your items stay protected while in storage, take care of them as you’re packing them away. Items that are delicate will need more padding to keep them safe throughout transport. Pick up packing and moving supplies at our Rent-A-Space office today! And while you are there, talk with our storage experts to clear up any additional questions you may have before you start renting storage—also check our Self Storage FAQ to see if your question can be answered instantly! It is important to understand the rules and expectations before renting storage.

2. General Packing Rule: Heavy on the Bottom, Light on Top

Keep in mind these helpful hints when first packing your storage unit. As a baseline, start with heavier, larger things before adding smaller ones on top. This will keep your containers from breaking due to stress on the inside and outside of them.

3. Clean & Cover

To ensure that your items are in excellent condition when you return them, clean and store them ahead of time. To prevent dust and dirt from accumulating, cover things like appliances, tools, and electronics before storing them for an extended period of time. To minimize damage or unpleasant odors over time, clean away germs and water drops beforehand.

4. Pack Air-Tight to Keep Out Moisture & Pests

Another approach to avoid damage is to ship with airtight containers. Learn to deal with pests and dampness from the start. Antiques, clothing, technology, and documents are all excellent examples of items that would benefit from being packed in airtight containers.

Organizing Garage

Packing Tips for Your Storage Unit 

1. Create an Organized Layout

Storage ought to simplify your life, not complicate it. The most effective way to pack your storage unit is by taking a methodical, step-by-step approach. Leave space in the center of your container so you can access items stored in all corners with ease. Store similar items together for quicker retrieval later on; for example, seasonal clothing or kitchen equipment. But if you need something urgently, keep those essential items near the entryway.

2. Utilize Your Entire Storage Space

Use all the space you’re paying for by stacking items high. Also, consider installing shelving units if your storage facility allows it.

3. Don’t Store Perishables

So what can’t you store? Perishables like food will go bad quickly, and when they do, they will begin to attract pests. It is best to avoid this altogether by storing these items in your everyday storage space in your home or business. You also cannot store dangerous, flammable items or money. Check out a more complete list from Move.org. 

Car in Garage

Vehicle Storage Tips 

Long-term storage of a vehicle can save you a lot of space on your property, but it is not as simple as dropping it off and leaving it. Vehicles of all sizes require additional care to give it a better chance of running as smoothly as possible when you need it again. Get its oil changed if you are storing long-term, top off the gas tank to prevent moisture build-up, and add a fuel stabilizer. Then, clean it inside and out—any dirt there will only accumulate over time. Follow more of Edmund’s vehicle storage tips.  

Rent-A-Space offers secure, outdoor parking spaces for personal vehicles, RVs, and boats at all three of its locations. Call any of our storage facilities today to learn more!

Rent-A-Space in Virginia

Now that you have learned some helpful self storage tips, look to Rent-A-Space in Virginia for all of your storage needs. With three convenient locations in southwest Virginia, Rent-A-Space is your first choice for affordable storage units. Choose from amenities that include drive-up storage units, indoor storage units, and parking spaces for personal vehicles, RVs, and boats. Additionally, for your security, all storage units are monitored via 24 hour security cameras. Feel secure storing your personal belongings at Rent-A-Space in Virginia this year!

rent storage online - Rent-a-Space

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