How to Store Valuable Possessions in a Storage Unit

Do you need to store some of your valuables but don't want to keep them at home? A storage unit might just be what you’re looking for! Whether it’s important family heirlooms that carry significant memories, artworks or even vintage furniture that you simply cannot get rid of, a well-secured storage unit near you will be your best bet to not only store them in but give you peace of mind. At Rent-A-Store, we offer various sizes of storage units with a world-class security system and 24-hour support - so you can always be at ease knowing that your possessions are in a safe place. Read more below to find out how to make the most of a storage unit for your valuables!

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Decide on what you need the space for

It’s easy to think that you might need extra storage but before signing a lease, take a few hours out of your day or week to really look at what you want to store, how many items there are and what categories they fall under. For instance, you could want to store some of your books, artworks, jewellery or clothes and furniture. If it seems like too many (or too little items), then make sure that you hire a storage unit that is the perfect size for you.

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Visit the space

Another important step to take is to visit the storage facility that you plan on storing your items in. Important things to consider are the distance of the unit from your home and office, how safe it feels when you are there and if you are happy with the staff and the security at the unit. Ask to see the various sizes of empty units and see if you get anything when you lease the space. At Rent-A-Store, we offerfree move-in transport, 10 free storage boxes to make packing easy. We also offer 50% off your first three months of renting! Other important things to take note of is toensure that you are not in a year-long (or even longer) contract and that you will be able to take a month-to-month lease which is especially important if you are travelling or moving somewhere else for a bit.

Make sure that you have insurance on your items and your storage unit

At Rent-A-Store, we take the necessary measures to ensure that your storage unit is safe and secure at all times. We have strict enforcement of access rules and procedures and our high-security system has constant checks and monitoring as well as efficient and regular system checks. We not only have security guards all over the premises who do regular checks, our perimeter is also protected by IP Cameras, walling, palisade fencing and full height electric fencing. We also have daily walkthroughs to ensure that all locks are still effective, a strict identification system upon entering and exiting as well as CCTV surveillance. Our units are protected in the best possible way and each unit door is fitted with a unique tamper-proof pad bolt system. Renters can also secure their own units with their own personal padlocks and keys. While we may have a top-notch security system in place, we recommend ensuring that your valuables inside the unit are insured to give you even more peace of mind.

Be smart about the space

Before packing your items in the storage unit, make a list of everything that will be going in the unit as well as the number of boxes and containers that you will be putting in the unit. Divide your list up into the broader categories such as books, art, jewellery and clothes and make subsections detailing each one's notes, images of each item and wherein the unit you will be storing them. This not only helps to ensure that you know exactly what is in the unit but will give you a feeling of having a hand on the space and allows you to feel in control of how the storage space is utilized.

If you have pieces of jewellery that you want to store but don't want to use your bank’s safety deposit boxes, then investing in a small, strong and reliable safe would be your best bet. These safes can easily be put into your unit and will work to safeguard your possessions. A strong safe is also a great way to protect your important possessions from fire, flood or any other disaster that could take place.

If you will be taking clothing, other textiles or furniture, then get a few plastic containers or simple but sturdy storage shelves to keep your items away from the floor. We also suggest packing smaller, foldable items (or books) in plastic containers as this will protect them from vermin and mould that could creep their way into a unit. Ensure that the seal on these containers is air-tight to keep out moisture and dampness.

Now that you know the most important things to take note of when renting a unit, be sure to visit our website to find a storage unit near you that will suit your needs.