Storage Beware: What to Watch Out for When Stuffing Your Storage Unit
Posted on September 19, 2011
Many moving companies offer the convenience of tucking away your personal belongings in a storage unit before, during or after a move. If you can’t move directly into your new home, want to start packing up far in advance or just have some extra furniture or boxes you’re not sure what to do with just yet, storage can be a fantastic and affordable solution. Before your movers come to haul off any of your prized possessions, be aware! American Van Lines has the master list of everything that can jeopardize your belongings while in storage.
Back to Basics: Choosing Your Unit
Whether you’re bundling storage options with your overall moving services or are selecting a private storage facility to get the job done, you’ll definitely want to find out just what kind of service you’ll be receiving. You may think that security is the most important feature when selecting your unit. However, even electric fences, foaming-mouthed dogs and armed guards can’t protect your possessions from dangers that can fester inside your unit. What you should really be on the lookout for is security inside and out.
Dangerous Climates
Extreme climates can do some serious damage on your stored items. If you plan on storing anything electronic, fur or anything that contains wood, especially antiques and home furnishing, you should always choose a unit that is climate controlled. When you’re researching services, be sure to ask your potential storage provider how they regulate temperature within the units and if there is an alarm system in place for instances in which climate control breaks down.
Be Wary of Wet
Extreme temperatures and humidity are the two leading causes of damage when it comes to items in a storage unit. Humidity can cause a battery of badness you won’t want to deal with. Specific items that face inevitable ruin are musical instruments and paper products. However, mold and mildew can grow on almost any surface, and they can become airborne, which can pose a threat not just to your belongings but to your own health as well. Make sure you ask your company what humidity levels can be expected within their units. Anything below 55RH – relative humidity – should do nicely.
Shoo Fly (and Everything Else)
Mice, rats and insects can undo the safekeeping of any climate or humidity control in a single rumble of their tummies. If you don’t already know, NEVER keep anything edible inside your storage unit. That’s just asking for trouble. When you tour your potential storage facility, take the time to walk all of the grounds and keep an eye out for any signs of infestation. Ask about pest control programs. Don’t be afraid to ask to see any bait boxes or other evidence that a working program is in place.
Remember: these are your possessions. Don’t let anything put them in harm’s way. Stay smart and attentive and you and your possessions will turn out just fine. For more tips on selecting a storage unit that’s right for you, find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter @americanvanline.
