Welcome to Ernst & Edgar's Storage Tips Site

Rental storage is a way of today's society. Cities are full of storage units in all sizes. It used to be that storage companies were on the outside of town, but now, because of the huge demand for places to put one's belongings, the companies are found everywhere, and even more conveniently, in town. Plus, it used to be that people only used storage facilities for temporary reasons, particularly when moving.

Nowadays, however, people are using paid storage as an adjunct to their homes, basements and garages. What better way to gain more room in the house than putting seasonal things into storage? But whether you need storage to complete a move or just want extra space, there are a few things that you should know to make the job easier. As a result, we have chosen ten areas where you might need some helpful storage tips. before you get help, though, with the specific items that you want to put in storage, here are five general storage tips to get you started.

Prepare in Advance

If you know that you are moving and will have to store your belongings for a short period, use the time before the move wisely by collecting your supplies such as boxes, tape, labels and packing material. Usually, when you plan for something, you make fewer mistakes, and when preparing your items for storage, your ultimate goal is to have as little damage to your goods as possible.

Call Storage Facilities Ahead of Time

Even though you may see many storage facilities in your city, it does not mean any are available. The truth is, storage units are in high demand, and you generally need to go on a waiting list. The staff know what dates others are moving out of their rental units, and can tell you how long you will have to wait. The worst thing you can do is show up at the rental location with your things in hand when you have not booked something in advance.

Choose Between Outside, Inside, and Climate Controlled

Some of your items are better stored in certain climates. For example, musical instruments do not fare well in drastically changing temperatures. In this case, you might be wise to pay for a climate controlled unit. Other items, such as fine china and crystal are not good kept outside, so an inside room might be favorable. Before reserving storage, think about your needs and the items that need to be stored. In fact, read about the maintenance of the materials and if you have an owner's guide, follow those instructions, as well.

Prepare the Unit Before Adding Belongings

Before you start putting your belongings into the storage room or outside unit, you should prepare the area first. Sweep it out so that dust is removed and any old residue from previous renters. If you have wooden pallets or skids, put those down on the floor to keep your items up off the floor area. Local stores usually throw the pallets away, so they are easy to obtain. In the corners of the unit, throw around some moth balls and you might even put down some mouse traps. Also, arrange the boxes in aisle formation so that you can move about easily. Do not forget to place the boxes with the labels sticking toward you, not facing the wall where they cannot be seen.

Use Specialty Locks

Storage units are easily broken into. Despite the fact that the location may have surveillance equipment, locked front doors, and other anti-burglary measures, the truth is people will steal. What you want to do is make your unit a deterrent to others. Consequently, there are special locks which cost about fifty dollars, but they are supposed to be the best for storage, as people cannot use crowbars or bolt cutters to break them open. Using simple padlocks and combination locks is just asking for trouble.

Finally, now that you have read these general tips, you can move on to more specific areas such as storage tips for clothing, appliances, breakables, artwork, musical instruments, electronics, classic cars, boats, RVs and motorcycles.