Self-storage provides solutions to countless problems. Some people use it as a temporary place to keep their belongings during relocation while others rent a unit to make room in their homes.
Either way, the fact remains that such a service is most useful if you can ensure that the things you decide to tuck away are safe and secure.
To help you make the most out of the storage while ensuring the safety of your belongings, here are the top eight safety tips you should live by:
1. Check for Alarms
One of the most crucial security features you must look for in a self-storage facility is the alarm system.
The very presence of security alarms can leave unscrupulous people hesitant about breaking into your unit. But the best thing about having an alarm system is that it can raise awareness when a robbery is taking place, allowing the storage manager or supervisor to take necessary precautions and prevent anything from getting stolen.
When checking storage facilities, look for alarms on the doors of individual units. Some also offer real-time surveillance that sends updates to the storage system computer through certain apps.
2. Go for Gated Access
Like residential structures, storage facilities benefit well with a secure gate. A good self-storage facility can only be accessed through a gate that has both electronic entry access (i.e., passcodes or keycards) and 24-hour security guard.
3. Look for Extra Security Features
Aside from gated access and alarms, you should also look for additional layers of security features in the self-storage facility where you’ll be keeping your things. This includes round-the-clock management and video surveillance.
The storage facility should be monitored from the inside by employees 24/7. Having personnel patrolling the facility grounds day and night will help deter any attempt at stealing or causing damage to your belongings.
On top of that, you should also look for video surveillance systems to make sure that everything is recorded. The presence of cameras allows security personnel to see what is happening on site and will make thieves think twice about committing illegal acts within the premises.
4. Make Sure the Unit is Well-Lit
Light not only allows you to see where you’re headed when inside the self-storage facility, but it also prevents robberies from occurring. Because of this, you have to make sure that your unit has high-quality lighting both inside and out.
5. Use Extra Storage
Did you know that you can store small storage pods within your rented self-storage? These can serve as added protection for your most valuable items like jewelry, heirlooms, and important documents as you are the only one with access to them.
6. Consider Insurance
You might think that insurance is just an added cost, but the truth is, it can actually save you from a lot of trouble later. To see whether your storage facility is covered, read the fine print in your service contract and ask questions when anything is unclear.
If the insurance coverage is lacking or isn’t available at all, you can also check your renter’s or homeowner’s insurance. In some cases, it covers items that belong to you but aren’t stored inside your apartment or house.
7. Have a Record of Everything
Keeping track of your belongings that aren’t within arm’s reach can be tricky. This is where keeping a record of the items stored in your self-storage unit can come in handy.
You may also choose to create a floor plan or map of the unit, indicating where each of the items is located to make finding them easy during inventory. You should also list down items, copy serial numbers for electronic equipment, and indicate their value. These types of information can help when you have to file for insurance claims later.
8. Place Items in the Storage Unit Strategically
Aside from choosing a reliable self-storage facility, you also need to do your part in keeping your belongings safe and secure. By taking precautions when organizing the storage unit, you minimize damage to the items and reduce any chance of theft. Here are some ways by which you can do this:
- Place pallets or skids on the unit floor.
- Cover them with cloth or heavy-duty plastic to prevent dust and damage caused by bugs.
- Put valuables at the back of the unit or somewhere that cannot be easily seen.
- Avoid stacking containers too high to reduce the risk of falling. This will also make accessing them easier for you.
Better Safe than Sorry
Keeping your belongings safe when using a self-storage unit requires effort on your part as well as from the service provider. Aside from choosing the right company to trust with your items, you must also make sure you visit your unit regularly to check their condition.
AUTHOR BIO
Chris Humphrey is the General Manager of Easytruck Moving & Storage. In 2013, the company combined their expertise in professional moving services and storage to create an entirely new approach to the business – and mobile storage was born! Easytruck now operates over 30,000 sq.ft. of air-conditioned facilities in three convenient locations in Dubai and is the only Mobile Storage operator in the UAE.