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self storage tips from Pioneer Valley Storage in Massachusetts

Pioneer Valley Storage: Self Storage Tips

Looking for some self storage tips to get you started on the right foot? Pioneer Valley Storage is your first choice for affordable storage units in the Amherst, MA, area, and we’ve compiled a list of our top packing and storage tips to help you make the most of the space you are renting. Start your storage journey with Pioneer Valley Storage today!

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Self Storage Tips for Finding Space & Packing

self storage tips from Pioneer Valley Storage - choosing your storage facility

Choose Your Storage Unit 

You have many self storage options in the Amherst area. So how do you choose a storage facility—and more specifically storage units—to house your belongings? Start by searching for self storage close to your home, work, business, or regular commutes. You are looking for convenience as much as you are looking for product and service.  

When looking for a safe place to store your belongings, you’ll first want to decide which type of storage is best suited for your needs. For example, drive-up storage containers make it much easier to load items from your car. However, indoor storage units provide temperature control to protect your belongings against weather conditions. Be sure to research and choose the correct storage unit type based off your own specific needs in order avoid any surprises or problems down the road.

Visit Pioneer Valley Storage to start getting your items organized today. With three self storage facilities in and around Amherst, MA, we serve the Belchertown and Amherst areas of the central Maryland area. A short distance from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, we can handle all kinds of storage needs—from residential to commercial, and even student storage. Read more about our storage facility’s specific features, and use our storage calculator to figure out what size storage unit you should rent.  

self storage tips from Pioneer Valley Storage - how to pack your boxes for storage

Packing Tips for Your Boxes 

1. Prep Before Packing

To ensure that your items stay protected while in storage, take care of them as you’re packing them away. Items that are delicate will need more padding to keep them safe throughout transport. Pick up packing and moving supplies at our Pioneer Valley Storage office today! And while you are there, talk with our storage experts to clear up any additional questions you may have before you start renting storage—also check our self storage FAQ to see if your question can be answered instantly! It is important to understand the rules and expectations before renting storage.

2. General Packing Rule: Heavy on the Bottom, Light on Top

Use these packing tips to help keep your boxes and storage containers in good condition. A helpful tip is to start by putting the heavier items on the bottom before adding lighter ones on top. By doing this, you will reduce the chances of your container breaking or being damaged under pressure.

3. Clean & Cover

To ensure that your products are in great shape when you return them, clean and preserve them ahead of time. Cover things like appliances, tools, and electronics before storing them for a long time to prevent dust and dirt from accumulating. Clean away germs and water droplets beforehand to minimize damage or bad smells over time.

4. Pack Air-Tight to Keep Out Moisture & Pests

By using air-tight containers, you can avoid any potential damage to your belongings. It’s important to learn how to deal with pests and moisture as soon as possible. Items like antiques, clothing, technology, and papers should always be kept in air-tight storage.

self storage tips from Pioneer Valley Storage - how to pack your storage unit

Packing Tips for Your Storage Unit 

1. Create an Organized Layout

Storage units are designed to ease the stress in your life. The best way to pack yours is by taking a step-by-step approach as follows: Leave space down the center of your unit so you can access items stored in all corners more easily. Store similar items together, such as seasonal clothing or kitchen equipment, to make it simpler and quicker to find what you need later. Keep your most essential items close to the entryway for quick retrieval.

2. Utilize Your Entire Storage Space

Use all the space you’re paying for by stacking items high. Also, consider installing shelving units if your storage facility allows it.

3. Don’t Store Perishables

So what can’t you store? Perishables like food will go bad quickly, and when they do, they will begin to attract pests. It is best to avoid this altogether by storing these items in your everyday storage space in your home or business. You also cannot store dangerous, flammable items or money. Check out a more complete list from Move.org. 

self storage tips from Pioneer Valley Storage - vehicle storage tips

Vehicle Storage Tips 

Long-term storage of a vehicle can save you a lot of space on your property, but it is not as simple as dropping it off and leaving it. Vehicles of all sizes require additional care to give it a better chance of running as smoothly as possible when you need it again. Get its oil changed if you are storing long-term, top off the gas tank to prevent moisture build-up, and add a fuel stabilizer. Then, clean it inside and out—any dirt there will only accumulate over time. Follow more of Edmund’s vehicle storage tips.  

Find safe and secure outdoor parking at Pioneer Valley Storage! Call or email the storage facility closest to you to find affordable storage space!

Get Started with Pioneer Valley Storage in & Around Amherst, MA

Now that you have learned some helpful self storage tips, look to Pioneer Valley Storage near Amherst, MA, for all of your storage needs. Our three self storage facilities are spread out across town, so you always have access to a well-equipped space to stash your belongings. Our indoor and drive-up self storage units make it simple to organize your belongings while moving or reorganizing extra space. With an expert on site who will answer any of your storage questions, our self storage facility has all the features you need! If you are ready to secure a storage unit to support your home or business organization, take a look at our available storage units online!

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