Tips

Helpful Storage Tips

24-Hour Access | Secure Storage Units | In Business Since 1979

24-Hour Access
Secure Storage Units
In Business Since 1979

Some Helpful Advice for Your Storage Needs

Enjoy a smooth and stress-free storage process by referring to some of our helpful tips. Our tips will help you from the time you choose a storage unit until the time you remove your items from the storage.

Contact Gossard Self Storage if you have any questions!

Choosing Your Storage Unit

  • Call us to find out the availability of storage unit sizes, prices, and vacancy information.
  • Choose the unit size that best meets your needs.
  • Meet our manager to discuss the price, deposit, and rental agreement.
  • Ask about the security features of the facility (lighting and security gates).
  • Get a copy of the contract, contract information, as well as the hours of operation for the facility.
  • Inspect the unit that you will be renting. It should be clean, well maintained, and secure.

Planning the Storage Process

  • Make a list of all the items you plan to store.
  • Purchase a lock for your unit if needed.
  • Gather boxes and packing supplies. You may need large boxes for lamps and other decorations, blankets or pads for covering furniture, china cartons for dishes, and bubble wrap / fill paper for packing valuables. You can also buy boxes from us.
  • Call the manager of the storage facility and confirm your move-in date and time.
  • Make arrangements to transport your items to the storage facility.

Packing Your Belongings

  • Use only sturdy boxes and containers for storing your items.
  • Label all containers and boxes.
  • Fill containers to their capacity and fill in space with packing material.
  • Pack heavier items in small boxes.
  • Secure mirrors, paintings, and pictures in mirror boxes and pack them on edge.
  • Disassemble lamps, tables, bar stools, and other furnishings as applicable. Wrap pieces individually and store them securely in boxes.
  • Wrap wooden table legs and chairs to avoid scratches.
  • Cover sofas with blankets or pads so that they do not gather dust, and stack them on end.
  • Cover dressers with blankets or pads so you can stack those boxes on top.
  • Fill drawers and appliances with small items to conserve space.
  • Pack books flat and avoid placing them directly on the unit floor (place them on a pallet).
  • Wrap dishes and other breakable items individually, layering padding at the top and bottom of the box.
  • Clothing is best stored clean and in hanging cartons.

Storing Your Belongings at the Unit

  • Place items in the order that you will need to access them. Those that will be readily used should be placed in the front of the storage unit.
  • Before moving in large furniture, cover the ground with pallets.
  • Do not lean furniture against the outside walls.
  • Place tabletops (well padded) on edge.
  • Leave appliance doors cracked open so that moisture does not build within.
  • Do not store food, as this will attract mice and other pests.
  • Arrange boxes so that the labels are facing out so that they are easy to read.
  • Stack boxes in a manageable manner. Put large, heavy boxes on the bottom.
  • Leave space for a walkway so that you can easily navigate through the unit and access your items as needed.
  • Do not store flammable products.

Removing Your Belongings From the Unit

  • Give the storage company a proper notice of your intent to move out. Refer to your contract for specific guidelines.
  • Remove the boxes placed on the top first. Carefully boxed items may have shifted after a prolonged period.
  • Remove all of your belongings.
  • Sweep out the unit and dispose of any trash.
  • Secure the unit. Make sure the door is completely shut.
  • Return the keys to the manager.
Visit us anytime as we provide 24-hour storage access!
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