Choosing a self-storage rental requires due diligence on your part to ensure that your possessions will be stored in a safe location. Before leaving your property, you should have complete confidence that the management team is professional and committed to operating a secure storage facility. Here, we look at factors to consider that will keep your belongings safe when you rent a storage unit.

5 Ways to Protect Your Property in a Self-Storage Unit

1. Choose a Trusted Storage Facility

Reputation is everything when it comes to entrusting a self-storage company to protect your property. Do your research to find a facility that is highly rated by consumers. Consult with friends, family, and close associates to figure out which storage companies are most reliable and have the best security. Protection features like 24-hour video surveillance, a well-lit interior and exterior, gated entry and 24-hour access for renters are what set the best storage facilities apart from the rest.

2. Climate Controlled Storage Units

Keeping your items safe also means protecting them from the elements. If you have valuable artwork, heirlooms, musical instruments, or expensive furniture that requires environmental protection, an indoor climate controlled unit will keep debris, rodents, mold, mildew, and humid air from destroying your possessions. This is especially important if you’re storing items during the rainy season when the weather conditions will be damp.

3. Take Inventory

Write a comprehensive list of everything that you will be leaving in the unit. Take pictures of their condition and their location inside the storage unit. Label and count all of your boxes or plastic containers. To prevent theft, if you will have expensive valuables in boxes or containers, label them with a color-coded system rather than labeling the box with the item name.

4. Choose a Heavy Duty Lock

Some storage facilities require you to purchase a locking system for the unit. There are many different types of locks, including combination and disc locks. You will want to choose a lock design that is made of durable, high-quality steel that can’t be removed with bolt cutters.

5. Purchase Insurance

If you don’t already have your items insured under your homeowner’s or renter’s policy, it would be a good idea to contact an agent to discuss your options. If the storage facility offers full coverage insurance, you can opt to pay a little extra to insure your property in the event that it’s ever necessary to file a claim.

American Mini Storage is the first choice for personal storage in Staunton, VA. They provide secure, short and long-term storage rental for your needs. Call (540) 885-7231 or visit their website for more information about their self-storage rates and services.