Storage units provide an excellent solution for storing your items between moves or when you just don’t have enough room for everything at home. While they can definitely make life easier, however, they can only do so if you know what pitfalls to avoid. Since many people tend to make the same self-storage mistakes, avoid five of the most common errors.

5 Mistakes People Make With Storage Units

1. Failing to Label Boxes

Always label your boxes. Even if you’re not packing many items, you might forget what you’ve packed if enough time passes. To ensure that you know exactly what you’ve got in storage when you need to retrieve it, label each box with its contents, and make a master list of the contents to make finding the right boxes even easier.

2. Skipping the Insurance

It might seem like it saves you a few extra bucks, but skimping out on insurance could do more harm than good. Especially when you’re storing electronics, antiques, or valuable art, make sure you have enough coverage for any potential losses. Even the best facilities can’t prevent accidents and natural disasters such as fire or flood.

3. Storing Items on the Floor

Keep items elevated whenever possible, such as with shelving units or wood pallets. Storing your items directly on the floor can result in moisture damage or dirt accumulation.

4. Packing With Newspaper

Blank newsprint is fine, but never wrap your items in printed newspaper, printed bags, or anything else with ink. Fluctuations in temperature or humidity could cause the inks to transfer, allowing the wrappings to stain or damage your items permanently.

5. Storing Food & Perishables

Never store food in a storage unit, even if it’s in a can or package. Doing so will attract rodents, insects, and other pests. Well-secured facilities might be able to keep out human thieves, but small creatures are another matter. Do your part to keep them away by ensuring you don’t store any edible items.

By avoiding the above mistakes, you’ll get the most benefit out of your storage facility. For self-storage solutions in Cookeville, TN, and surrounding areas, reserve a unit from A-1 Williams Mini Storage. Offering 24/7 access and guaranteed security, their quality services are available with no security deposit or start-up fees. Call (931) 537-6005 to inquire, or go online for details about their facility.