What is a Climate-Controlled Storage Unit?

Electronics, clothes, furniture, heirlooms, photos, wine, and art are just a few of the things that can become damaged if they are exposed to excess moisture and humidity. Humidity and moisture in a regular storage unit are difficult to manage because they are dependent upon the natural elements. These elements include the winter chill and the summer heat. Temperatures outside can rise and fall unpredictably, but modern technology can allow you to be in control. Climate-controlled storage units can give your things the environment they need to withstand the results of years of storage.

Storage facilities use a variety of ways to maintain consistent temperature and humidity within the climate-controlled unit. First, during the construction process of the storage unit, an increased amount of insulation and programmable thermostats for ventilation, air conditioning, and heating are installed. This helps to manipulate the climate of the unit. Second, the units have double doors that help to trap the climate conditions. Lastly, measures are taken to reroute entrance holes that are incurred from heating or plumbing work. The goal is to have as few entrances as possible. Fewer openings help to avoid unwelcome conditions such as dust or pest invasions.

Climate-controlled units look and feel similar to the other units at the facility. You can tell the difference by the additional level of preservation that this type of unit gives to your items.

Increased amounts of moisture might leave furniture and clothing with a musty odor. Moisture can cause electronics to malfunction, documents to yellow, and wood to warp. All of this can be avoided by storing your things in conditions that are appropriate for the type of material that is being stored.

It’s important to know your items and understand how they will be stored. The right storage will keep your things in great condition for many years. The way to know if your possessions need a climate-controlled unit is to put them to the garage test. Consider your items and decide if you would feel good if they were stored in the garage year round. If you can answer, “yes”, then a regular unit will work well for you. However, if your answer is, “no”, a climate-controlled unit would be the proper choice to preserve your belongings.

In summary, if your items are one of a kind, valuable, or environmentally sensitive, you would be smart to choose a climate-controlled unit for your storage needs. It will be efficient at resisting pests, dust, and humidity. Please visit this website for additional information on climate controlled storage in Salinas.

5 Steps to Develop an Effective Content Strategy for Your Self-Storage Brand

Digital marketing has become complicated for self-storage operations. Knowing who you want to reach, what you want to tell them and what you want them to do is just the beginning. Knowing which channels to use to give them the most relevant information is another challenge... read more

Moving Made Easy With U-Haul

Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or wide-eyed novice, moving is stressful for everyone. Tight timelines, fitting knick-knacks into boxes and frantically recruiting friends to help you pack up all add anxiety to the process. To save money, many people opt for DIY (do-it-yourself) moving rather than hiring a professional service. While this can be an economical solution, it often causes much more agony than necessary. Rather than trying to handle everything yourself, using U-Haul offers flexible, budget-friendly moving solutions, saving a lot of time and hassle in the process.

When you’re moving farther than a few blocks, having a large moving vehicle reduces the number of trips needed to transport belongings to your new home. Especially when moving across state lines, the ability to fit boxes and furniture in one load is essential. When you consider the time and money spent repeatedly trekking across town in a small truck, U-Haul rentals are a better option for transporting goods quickly and safely.

Many DIY movers have also made the mistake of thinking that all trucks are created equal. If you’ve ever looked into the back of truck beds, you’ve likely noticed that utility boxes, wheel wells and other features reduce the depth and carrying capacity of many vehicles. Rental trucks are designed specifically with your moving needs in mind, featuring low docks for easy loading, securely latching doors and conveniently stored hand-trucks.

U-Haul also covers you for the unexpected. Too often, moving day arrives with the realization that you don’t have moving blankets, boxes, tape or people to help you load up your furniture. Fortunately, U-Haul offers all these supplies, including resources to help you pack up vehicles if needed. Whether you choose to make a reservation ahead of time or rent a trailer last-minute, you won’t need to worry about making extra trips for supplies.

In addition to boasting optimal carrying capacity and materials to help with loading and packing, U-Haul also offers customers a wide range of vehicle sizes to choose from, so you can choose a truck or trailer based on what you need to move. With additional options for insurance, you can cover the goods that you’re carrying and protect against any potential liability claims that might result from a collision during your move.

From fleet choices to insurance coverage, U-Haul gives you efficiency and protection that DIY moving generally lacks. Especially for long distance moves, choosing to use a rental truck allows you to complete your move in a single trip, saving time, money and stress. To learn more about U-Haul trucks in Salinas, please visit this website.

Moving Countdown Checklist

Make moving go smoothly with a checklist that breaks the big list down to smaller, more manageable tasks. When you spread them out over a few weeks, your moving day can be stress-free...read more

Seeing Green: Simple Ways Self-Storage Operators Can Celebrate the Earth Every Day

Much like Christmas or Halloween, Earth Day only occurs one day of the year. Still the impact it makes on that day, April 22 this year, can have long-lasting affects for everyone, including self-storage operators… read more

How to Prepare Your RV for Storage

When the warm seasons wind down, it comes time again to prepare your RV for winter storage. There are numerous steps which go into protecting your vehicle, both in terms of the interior as well as the exterior.Follow this checklist for best results when storing your RV for the cold season.

Start From the Inside

After clearing all food items out of your RV, be sure to clean the refrigerator thoroughly and defrost the freezer. Leave doors open and position open boxes of baking soda in compartments for odor absorption. Turn off the liquid petroleum gas supply valve on the tank as well.

In addition to fridge doors, leave cabinets and drawers open for ventilation. Cracking open your overhead vents will also provide improved air circulation when the RV is being stored in a covered area. Keep windows covered to limit sun exposure which can damage furnishings and floor surfaces.

Outside Preparation Process

Give your RV a full exterior washing including the roof. Perform an inspection of all major seams and seals for cracks or imperfections. If repairs are needed, your RV dealer should be able to recommend sealants which are suitable for the job.

Try to store your RV in a covered setting to limit sun and elemental exposure. It’s not advisable to park it under trees or in wooded areas, however. If it must remain in the open during storage, consider investing in an RV cover made from breathable materials.

Mechanical Preparation

Finally, take a few steps to protect the components which power your vehicle. For long-term storage, remove your RV’s batteries and keep them charged until the vehicle’s ready for use again. Change out your oil and filters on the engine as well as the generator.

Check your owner’s manual to verify the correct type and concentration of antifreeze is present in your radiator. Double-check your fluid levels including brakes, transmission, power steering, and windshield washer solution. Finally, top off your gas tank and add a fuel stabilizer according to manufacturer’s recommendations.

For more information about RV storage, please visit this website.

Moving Checklist

Get a head start on your moving checklist several weeks out so your moving day goes off without a hitch. Less stress means more time to enjoy your new home.

Tips for Organizing Your Storage Unit

Renting a storage unit is a great solution for somebody who is living in a small home. Whether it is a temporary or long term situation, it can help maximize your space. However, it is important to make sure that you are organized when you put your items in your unit. If you put things in there randomly without any rhyme or reason, you may find yourself needing to dig through endless boxes finding an item you need. Because this can be easily prevented with a little organization, it makes sense to take the time to make sure things are put in your storage unit in an orderly manner.

Figuring out the amount of storage you need is an important first step. Assess everything you are planning on putting into storage and use that to determine which size is right for you. If you get a storage unit that is too small, then you may find yourself trying to shove things in that don’t fit into which can be dangerous and lead to broken items. At the same time, you don’t want to get a storage unit that’s too big because you don’t want to be paying for extra space. Deciding which size is best for you beforehand can help solve these potential problems.

After you have decided which size of storage unit is best for you, make a list of the boxes you are planning on putting in your storage unit. Take note of the things that you may need to access frequently and the things that you probably won’t touch. When you do this, you can figure out which items need to be the most easily accessible. Things like seasonal clothing and decorations are items that you know you will need to access at some point. On the other hand, memory items or outgrown clothing may be items that you can put more toward the back. Figuring out what needs to go where beforehand will help make things easier for you later.

Make sure you pack your items in an organized manner. Each box should be well labeled with a detailed list of what’s inside. A good tip is to number each box and have a master list of what each box contains. When you move into your unit, draw out a map of where you are putting items in your unit. Keep your map with your master list in a safe place so you can have easy access to it later. Following these tips will help you keep your storage unit organized. For more information on self-storage in Salinas, please visit this website.

Live From the 2015 ISS Expo: David Blum Talks About the Expanding International Self-Storage Market

In this video, filmed at the 2015 Inside Self-Storage World Expo, David Blum, president of Better Management Systems LLC, discusses the growing international self-storage markets, including those in Latin America and Southeast Asia… read more

Choosing the Right Size U-Haul Truck for Your Move

When it comes time to relocate or place items into storage, you can save a bundle by performing the heavy lifting on your own. A rented moving truck is an ideal way to transport large items while limiting the need for numerous round trips but determining the right size can be tricky. Reference these tips to make your move as painless as possible.

Standard Needs

U-Haul box trucks are available in a wide range of sizes. For small-to-midsize moves or relocations taking place over shorter distances, a 10’ truck will accommodate about 1-2 rooms of furnishings and possessions. Consider a 17’ truck for 2-3 bedrooms with the added benefit of seating for three in the cab.

Trucks for Smaller Moves

If only you’re moving the contents of a single room or studio apartment, consider a 9’ cargo van which will provide ample capacity plus enclosed coverage just in case it rains. For even smaller trips, boat towing, or other specialized needs, an 8’ pickup truck is efficient, affordable, and easy to load.

Big Trucks for Big Jobs

When transporting your belongings over long distances, select a larger truck to ensure that everything will fit in a single run. A 20’ truck will support a 2-3 bedroom move while 24’ is ideal for most 3-4 bedroom homes. Upgrade to a 26’ truck for 4+ bedrooms to avoid making multiple trips.

As an additional benefit, U-Haul box trucks feature a towing package to reduce unnecessary back and forth travel. After all, your move is already plenty complicated—why make it more challenging? For more information about U-Haul dealer in Salinas, please visit this website.

Document Storage Tips

Protect your documents by storing them in a climate-controlled storage facility. This will keep them safe from humidity and moisture.

The Essential Supplies for Your Next Move

Moving involves plenty of planning and preparation. You’ll definitely require boxes along the way, but there’s plenty more that goes into a well-executed move. Be sure you’re equipped with everything you need for a frustration-free moving process.

Boxes and Beyond

Containers aren’t limited exclusively to cardboard. Consider utilizing bags for delicate garments as well protecting mattresses and bedding. When it comes to cardboard boxes, make sure you have all the right sizes. Oversize containers may be needed to accommodate your flat television set, artwork, or other items with broad dimensions.

Signed and Sealed

Do yourself a favor and stock up on wide-tip permanent markers to label boxes in order to ease loading and unloading processes. Be sure also to secure boxes using the right kind of tape—proper packaging tape will offer the right kind of strength so the bottoms of your boxes don’t give out under the weight of contents.

Other Supplies

Ensure that you have the right kind of packaging material to protect fragile goods such as dishes and glassware. High-performance packing materials are designed to limit shifting of goods during movement, absorbing impact to keep breakable items safe. For larger items, moving blankets and similar padding may be necessary.

Packing up your home is only half the battle, so don’t let a lack of supplies slow you down. Assemble everything you need ahead of time for a quick and easy packing process that will start your move out on the right foot. For more information about moving supplies and packing peanuts in Salinas, please visit this website.

Misinformation About Self-Storage From Valet-Storage Company Makes Me Mad!

Self-storage facilities are in scary neighborhoods, have long-term contracts and rate hikes, and jam-pack their customers’ stuff inside dirty, dusty storage units… read more

Handy Moving Materials For Your Next Move

It pays to be organized and have the important tools on hand to get your packing and moving done right. Stock up on these items for an efficient packing and moving experience:

• packing tape and dispensers
• moving boxes in several sizes
• mover’s stretch wrap.

Stick to Nice Tape

Be sure you have a quality tape dispenser or two and plenty of packing tape. Not all tape is created equal, though, so be sure your tape is suited to packing and moving. Cheap tape or duct tape will not hold your boxes closed and safely packaged through the process of moving and storing your things.

Just Buy Boxes

Go for a set of small, medium, and large boxes that coordinate. Get more than you think you will need. They will be sturdy, lasting, and they will fit snugly alongside each other in your moving van and storage unit. Those packing the truck will appreciate having boxes that are easily stacked together to maximize van space. Specialty boxes such as wardrobe boxes can neatly hold your clothing on hangers. Simply grab the clothing from the close thang in a wardrobe box to make packing closets a snap.

Use Mover’s Plastic Wrap

These large rolls of stretchy plastic are amazing for keeping furniture pads in place. With a furniture pad and the mover’s stretch wrap, you can keep all the surfaces of your furniture from rubbing against one another. The stretchy plastic sticks to itself so the padding stays put. Plus, a few layers of the wrap itself acts as protection from scuffing as you shift your furniture about on and off a moving truck. To get all your packing materials in Salinas visit this website.

Storage in Shadow

Contrasting shades of shadow highlight the intricate design of this storage facility. Self- storage is a great tool for keeping your rarely used belongings safe, easily accessible, and out of your way.

Twitter Talk: How the Social Media Giant Can Help Your Self-Storage Business

Of all the social media sites, it seems like Twitter is the easiest for self-storage operators to master. You don’t need to “claim” your business, “like” anyone or post a high-quality video... read more

How to Avoid Injury During a Move

Moving can be a long, tedious job where injuries can be easily sustained. If you are prepared and informed, you can reduce or even eliminate the chance of becoming injured while moving. Here are some rules that you should follow.

1. Learn to Lift Properly

It’s a good idea to get into the habit of bending at the knees and not at the waist every time you lift something. This habit will serve you well when it comes time to lift heavy objects during your move. Be sure that the object you are lifting is close to your body, and do not twist your body when picking something up. Position your legs so that they are apart, get a good grip, and then lift with your legs and not your back. Do your best to securely place your feet, and lift slowly and smoothly. Try not to jerk. If the object is too heavy to lift, try to push rather than pull.

2. Make Preparations

Being prepared is key to a successful move. Purchase a good pair of gloves with non-slip grips. Gloves will prevent items from slipping out of your hands. Prior to your move, be sure to ask for help. There is a good chance that you can’t do the job alone. Prepare the work area. Clear a path so that you are not likely to trip or slip.

Learning to lift properly and making preparations will protect your back and ensure an injury-free move. Please check out this website for more information on self-storage in Salinas.

Tips for Packing Your Moving Boxes

It can be stressful to pack your belongings and make all the necessary preparations to move, but with a few helpful strategies, you can pack your moving boxes like a professional.

Use the Right Sized Box

The smallest box is probably the right box. Large boxes are for lightweight or awkwardly shaped items. When you first begin packing, it may seem like the more you can fit into a box, the better, but keep in mind that every box you pack must also be moved. You should be able to comfortably heft the box, so pack only what you can lift.

Use Plenty of Packing Material

Sturdy boxes and spongy padding will help protect your household items as you pack. Wrap breakables carefully with Styrofoam or bubble wrap to insulate against the force of moving. There are specialized boxes to accommodate mirrors and pictures to make it simple to keep your artwork from breaking. The corners of frames are particularly susceptible to damage, so be sure to use plenty of padding or get the right sized foam corners to protect against scuffing.

Don’t Forget to Label Box Tops

Marking your boxes clearly can save you time. Be sure to write on the top of the box so the mover can easily read the contents of the box. Knowing whether the box contains books or a lamp can make all the difference when packing a moving truck or storage unit, and it makes it easier to place it in the correct room in the house at its final destination.

For more information on storage units in Salinas, visit this website.

Wales Self-Storage Operator Storage Giant Creates Offbeat Commercial Designed to Amuse

This offbeat video from Wales-based self-storage operator Storage Giant harkens the days of crazy used-car commercials from the 1970s and ’80s... read more

Self-Storage Features

This self-storage facility clearly has security features for enhanced protection. The patron is using a large dolly to aid in transporting items more easily. Utilizing self-storage can help you keep items safe while not in use.

How to Pack Heavy Items

Moving heavy items is definitely not an easy job; but if you learn a few tips beforehand, it won’t be as difficult as you think. If heavy and cumbersome items are to be protected during transit, they will need to be properly packed. Here are three tips that will help you pack heavy furniture successfully.

1. Disassemble

Bookshelves, bed frames, tables, etc. should all be taken apart. Disassembled furniture will be easier to pick up and load into the truck. All contents should be removed from all the drawers, and cabinet doors should be tied together with rope.

2. Use Blankets

Always use blankets to cover and wrap the furniture. Once the furniture is wrapped, tape the blankets so that they are secure. If you want to use shrink wrap, it is best to wrap the furniture first in blankets, and then add the shrink wrap. The reason for wrapping first with blankets is to avoid the plastic coming in contact with the wood or fabric of the furniture. This could cause mildew from condensation due to high temperatures in the moving truck.

3. Protect with Bubble Wrap

Always wrap any type of glass with packing paper, and then add a protective layer of bubble wrap. Be certain that the bubble wrap does not come in direct contact with the glass surface because the air pockets might leave behind impressions.

If these simple steps are followed, your furniture will be protected and will not likely sustain damage. Please visit this website for additional information on U-Haul trucks in Salinas.

Why in the World Would You Hire a Self-Storage Broker? Pros and Cons of Using a Real Estate Professional

In 2014, more than $1 billion in self-storage properties were sold. The majority of those transactions—90 percent or more—were handled by a broker... read more

Room to Move

Wide open spaces with plenty of room to drive and space to park enhance this storage facility. Use self-storage to de-clutter your life and free up space.

Colliers International Acquires Self-Storage Brokerage CASE Commercial Real Estate Partners

Global commercial real estate services firm Colliers International has acquired CASE Commercial Real Estate Partners LLC, a Dallas-based company offering specialized services in self-storage as well as corporate relocations, health care and law firms... read more

Storage Unit Shelving

Do you need a storage unit? Maybe your lease is up and your new place isn’t ready, or you just don’t have enough space where you live to keep and store all of the things that are near and dear to you. When you choose to put your things in a storage unit, you might want to consider installing shelves for these reasons.

1. Organization

Shelving will provide better access to your items. Climbing over and moving boxes to find what you are looking for is not ideal. This problem can be eliminated when you store and organize your belongings on shelves with the labels facing out.

2. Stable Stacking

Stacking boxes as high as you can is not safe. Towers of boxes fall over and break the things that they land on. Shelving prevents all of that. Small items like lamps, picture frames, and special figurines can be safely stored on shelves.

3. More for Your Money

Don’t make the mistake of renting more than one storage unit when you can maximize the space you need in one. Using shelves will give you the ability to put more into your unit and also offers the best value for the money.

The reason for storing your possessions is so that you can return to them, not to make them vanish. Don’t be the one that creates a black hole, where nothing can be easily found. You’ll be happy when you return to retrieve your things that you made the decision to organize. For more information on business storage in Salinas visit this website.