A Comprehensive Checklist for Your Storage Unit Check-In
It's easy to get overwhelmed by storage unit check-ins. How often should you check the condition of your belongings? What should you be paying attention to? How should you organize your unit to facilitate easier check-ups? Thankfully, at Lockaway Storage, we're experts when it comes to storage. This guide has a thorough list of things you should do to make your visits more efficient, keep your things in good shape, and get the most out of your storage facility.
Have Your Access Information Ready
Make sure you have your gate entry information ready before you go to your storage unit. Our storage facilities have secure electronic gates with keypad entry, making it easy for tenants to access their storage unit while keeping other people out. Remember your unique entry code or store it somewhere safe and easy to get to, like your phone.
Extended gate entry hours give you a lot of freedom to stop by whenever it's convenient for you. Check your storage facility's entry hours before you arrive. With extended hours, you can go early in the morning before work or late at night after running chores. That way, it's seamless to add a check-in to your regular routine.
Inspect Your Lock and Unit for Security
When you store your things, safety is absolutely essential. As soon as you get to your unit, check the lock for any signs of damage and make sure it's in good shape. Advanced security measures, such as 24-hour video surveillance and a fully fenced property, give Lockaway Storage tenants peace of mind that their belongings are safe.
It's important for you to be a responsible tenant. Report anything strange to the on-site team right away, like if you see damage to your lock or the unit door. The staff at Lockaway Storage is always there to help with problems and replacements or fixes, so you don't have to worry about anything when you rent a unit at one of our facilities.
Bring a Storage Kit to Stay Organized
Having a clean-up kit can help you get more done when you visit your storage unit. Your kit may include:
- Gloves to protect your hands when handling heavy or dusty objects.
- Tape and markers to change or update the labels on your boxes.
- A flashlight to help you see (especially if you're storing things in the back of the unit).
- Basic cleaning supplies, like disinfecting wipes or a small broom and dustpan to sweep away dirt or dust.
If you have these tools on hand, you won't have to bring extra supplies every time. You can quickly fix any minor problems and keep your unit clean and organized.
Keep an Updated Inventory of Your Belongings
To keep track of what you have in storage, you need an accurate inventory list. Keeping track of things in a notebook, spreadsheet, or mobile app can make it easier to find certain things on future trips. Go over your list before visiting your unit, to remind yourself of what's inside your unit before you arrive. If you move things around or add things to the unit while you're there, make sure you update your inventory list to keep track of the changes.
Inspect the Condition of Your Stored Items
It's important to look at the state of your things when you check on your storage unit. At Lockaway Storage, we keep all of our facilities clean and free of pests – but you should always check on your belongings, just in case. Keep an eye out for water, dust, reactions to heat or cold, or signs of bugs. Make sure documents haven't faded, tires haven't deflated, and anything you may have plugged into a trickle charger is maintaining power like it should.
If you're storing fragile things like electronics, artwork, wooden furniture, or important papers, upgrade to one of the climate-controlled storage units. These units protect your valuables from high temperatures and humidity, keeping them in great shape all year long.
Reorganize Your Unit for Accessibility
As your storage needs change and grow, an organization system that once worked perfectly may no longer serve. During your visit, take a moment to rearrange things in your unit so that items you use often are easier to get to. Put things that are heavy or not used very often in the back and things that are light or important close to the front.
It's easy to move things in and out of your Lockaway Storage unit because of our wide hallways and drive-up storage units. Facility employees can help you upgrade to a bigger unit if you run out of room or you have changing storage needs. Each unit comes in a variety of sizes, from small mailboxes to units measuring up to 40 feet in length.
Prioritize Your Safety During Visits
When you're checking on your unit, put your safety first. When moving heavy things, protect your feet by wearing comfortable, sturdy closed-toed shoes. To avoid hurting your back, lift with your legs instead of your back. If you need to move big or bulky things, use a dolly or hand truck. If you're concerned about dust, cover your mouth and nose. You can make sure that every trip to your storage unit goes smoothly and with no injuries by following simple safety rules.
Stay on Top of Space Management
Making the most of the space in your unit is important for staying organized and avoiding having to buy extra storage space. To make more room, take advantage of vertical space by adding sturdy shelving units or stacking bins. To make it easier to find your belongings, put things that are similar together and clearly label the boxes.
Talk to the staff at Lockaway Storage about moving to a bigger unit if you're still not able to fit in your current one. Our lease terms are flexible, so it's easy and quick to add more storage room.
Plan for Future Visits
Take a moment to plan your next visit before you leave the building. It's a good idea to write down everything you'll need to bring, like holiday decorations or seasonal clothes. Think about what extra moving or packing supplies you might need and get them on your next trip to the on-site office.
If you plan, each visit will be useful, and you won't have to make as many trips back and forth.
Going to your storage place regularly doesn't have to be a pain. Our tips will help you speed up the check-in process, keep your things in order, and make the most of the services our facilities offer. Taking small steps each time you visit can pay off in the long run, whether it's keeping an accurate inventory or making sure your things stay in great shape.
Because Lockaway Storage provides adaptable options, our storage facilities are a good place to store your belongings. Find a storage facility near you and start making the most of your storage experience right away.