Your Guide To Temporary Storage: 5 Tips For Maximizing Your Self Storage Unit

Life’s unexpected changes can oftentimes feel overwhelming. Moving, renovating, and downsizing can all leave you buried in belongings without enough space to manage it all during the transition period. Instead of drowning in clutter, turn to self storage as your safety net. A secure, flexible temporary storage space allows you to embrace change without the chaos.

Follow these five strategies to take control of your items and keep life moving forward.

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1. Pick The Best-Fit Storage Unit For Your Needs

Selecting the proper storage unit size ensures you pay only for the needed space. Small- to medium-sized units are the most practical for temporary storage and budget-conscious tenants.

A small unit can accommodate boxes, seasonal décor, and small furniture, while a medium unit can fit larger items like mattresses, appliances, and multiple pieces of furniture.

If you’re unsure which size to choose, contact the Pioneer Valley Storage team. You can also check our handy storage calculator to get a sizing recommendation in just a few clicks.

2. Take Advantage Of Drive-Up Access & Facility Features

Drive-up storage units offer the convenience of loading and unloading items directly from your vehicle. This feature is handy for temporary storage when moving or remodeling or when you are dealing with large, heavy items.

Outdoor storage facilities are equipped with security features like gated access and security cameras help ensure your belongings are safe—no matter the length of your stay. If you’re unsure how long you’ll need storage, take advantage of flexible month-by-month rental terms.

3. Go For Climate-Controlled Storage When Necessary

Some belongings require extra protection from temperature and humidity fluctuations. Climate-controlled storage is ideal for these delicate items, which include electronics, wooden furniture, artwork, and documents. This type of self storage avoids extreme heat, cold, and moisture, which can cause damage such as warping, mold, or fading. Talk to our experts to see if climate control is right for your items.

4. Make Organization A Priority

Keeping your storage unit organized saves time and effort when retrieving items. Consider these simple storage tips as you are packing.

Use clear plastic bins or label all boxes for easy identification. This helps to find specific items later without needing to rummage through multiple boxes. Similarly, you can create an inventory list to track your belongings.

Inside your unit, stack boxes strategically or use shelving units to maximize the vertical space. Take advantage of the full space in your rental. Just make sure you pay attention to the weights of your boxes and items as you are stacking to avoid any breakage.

We recommend you place items you plan to swap out in one of your next trips to your unit near the entrance for quick access. Just grab and go for a quick visit.

5. Avoid Storing Restricted Or Risky Items

There are certain items you should never place in a storage unit for safety, legal, and hygiene reasons:

Food & perishables that attract pests and create odors.
Flammable or hazardous materials like gasoline, propane, paint, and fireworks pose fire risks.
Lithium batteries are at high risk of overheating and combustion.
Appliances with fluids that can lead to mold and mildew.
Animals or people because storage units cannot support living beings.

To ensure you follow proper storage guidelines, visit our self storage FAQ for more details.

Rent A Storage Unit Today For Your Temporary Storage Solution

Whether you need temporary storage or you are looking to store longer term, having a reliable space to store your belongings allows you the ultimate peace of mind. Choosing a secure storage facility near you grants you convenient access whenever you need it. Pioneer Valley Storage with three locations in the Amherst, MA, area offers various storage unit sizes, flexible rental options, and features like drive-up access and climate control.

Reserve your storage unit today by renting online or visiting our locations to get started!