Tag Archive for: storage unit

Storage Facilities – who to choose

Not everyone has enough space to store all of their possessions. You may have just moved out of home into a smaller apartment. Or additionally, you may have valuable belongings that you would feel more comfortable with being placed in self storage. Finding the perfect sized storage space that is most suitable to your needs can be difficult. Especially if it’s your first time using storage facilities. That’s why our team at Store Ur Stuff are here to help with everything from unit sizes, payment options, packing boxes and more. Furthermore, here is some information, tips and tricks for choosing the perfect storage facilities.

Choosing your Storage Provider

The day has come and you’re ready to find the best self storage provider, and with this comes careful selection. Additionally, there are a lot of factors you need to take into consideration. Such as, choosing a safe provider with storage nearby, a clean and tidy facility and being the right fit for what you need. As well as 24 hour storage access, surveillance cameras and temperature controlled storage units. Lastly, cheap self storage is not always the better option.

Storage Space

Most Storage facilities will offer a range of different storage options. Depending on what it is that you’re wanting to store, it is best to carefully select your space. Storage facilities offer storage options starting from as small as a locker, up to space big enough to fit a boat. As well as some offering indoor and outdoor storage. Therefore, it is essential to choose your space carefully to ensure you’re not paying for more than you need.

Payment Options

At times it can be hard to keep up with admin life. This is why it’s great to choose a self storage provider that offers online payment options. As well as auto payments. Additionally, setting up auto payments online can save you money. You will never be late on your storage account and will avoid late fees.

Long Term and Short Term Storage

Storage facilities can be a great short term or long term solution. Although, finding a storage facility that offers both can sometimes be difficult. Storage facilities that offer flexibility and no fixed lease are a great option for both short and long term storage. For example, if you’re looking for a new house and need to store furniture in the mean time, a storage facility without a fixed lease would be best suited. That way you are able to cancel your lease stress free as soon as you no longer need it. Short and long term storage options are an important asset to consider when choosing your storage provider.

Packing Materials

It’s always best that you use the highest of quality packing materials to store your goods. Sometimes it can be difficult to source these materials. That’s why choosing storage facilities that offer in house packing materials is a great option. Ultimately, saving time on finding packing materials elsewhere, and knowing you can purchase them last minute for your storage solutions. Store Ur Stuff offer a wide range of packing materials from; moving boxes, couch covers, archive boxes, bubble wrap and more.

Storage with Store Ur Stuff

Furthermore, when choosing your self storage provider you need to consider whether they are safe, reliable and have access to the things you need. Choosing a storage facility that offers long term storage, short term storage and different payment options is also important. This will help ensure your self storage experience is hassle free. In addition to this, choosing storage facilities that are fitted with surveillance cameras is also highly important.

Although there is many storage providers to choose from, Store Ur Stuff is a great contender. With safe self storage, competitive pricing, secure facilities fitted with 24 hour CCTV surveillance and online payment options. Additionally, view booking options, payment options and all other storage needs on the Store Ur Stuff website.

Moving Boxes

Moving boxes are an essential item when moving house. They keep all your loose and fragile items together and protected while in transit. However not any old cardboard box will do. It is important that you invest in quality moving boxes to transport and store your items. Boxes designed especially for moving will better protect its contents in the move. These boxes are also made out of double corrugated cardboard to make them stronger to handle heavy household items such as books, crockery and knick knacks. They are uniform in size making them easier to stack more steadily. As mentioned in organising your storage unit, boxes stack easily which is important to consider when stacking them into a moving truck as well as a storage unit.

Where can I get moving boxes?

Most self storage facilities and removalist companies stock a range of moving boxes to purchase. Many people see purchasing moving boxes an additional expense in an already very expensive period. Some storage facilities sell second hand boxes which will cut some of the expense. When purchasing second hand cardboard boxes make sure they are still in good condition and the strength of the box has not been compromised where sticky tape has been removed or by dents and tears. Also ensure there is room left on the cardboard box for you to label them clearly. Some facilities even buy back your boxes once you have finished with them, making the expense minimal in the long run.

Which moving boxes will I need?

If you have ever gone to a self storage facility to purchase moving boxes you will notice that there is a large range and almost a box to pack anything. There are speciality boxes like bike boxes, golf boxes, wine boxes and even map boxes. There are standard moving boxes you can use to pack most things, however there are some speciality boxes, like a TV boxes, that is worth the expense to make sure the item inside arrives safely. The right box plus bubble wrap, butchers paper or filing should be used to ensure the contents are not damaged during transit. Store UR Stuff’s recommended removalists Relocation Guys also recommend limiting the maximum weight of a moving box to 15 kilograms.

Tea Chest

The dimensions of the Tea Chest Box are 61cm (height), 51cm (depth) and 41cm (width). This box is particularly useful for packing bulky but light items such as clothes, shoes, bed linen and cuddly toys you’ve yet to grow out of. It is important not to fill the box with heavy items as they will be too heavy to lift.

Book Carton

With double thickness walls and dimensions of 40.6cm (length), 29.8cm (width) and 43cm (height), the Book Carton storage box is ideal for storing breakables and fragile items.

Picture Carton

Picture Cartons are ideal for storing frames, mirrors and pictures. With dimensions of 104cm (length), 7.5cm (width) and 77.5cm (height), making it the perfect storage box for your flatter possessions. Additionally, you may not think you need to use moving boxes. Although, it’s essential to do so as it will keep your possessions protected from any possible damage whilst in transit.

Port-a-robes

Port-a-robes are an essential large moving box when it comes to the storage and transit of clothing. Especially valuable clothing items. Additionally, this moving box enables you to hang clothes up with dimensions of 59.4cm (length), 47.6cm (width) and 109.9cm (height). Also, Port-a-robes help to protect all garments from potential damage, making them a great choice of packing materials. Lastly, this method of clothing storage allows airflow through the box, helping to avoid any moisture being trapped inside.

Lay Flat Wine Boxes

The Lay Flat Wine packing boxes are an ideal choice for the storing and transit of wine. These moving boxes are able to keep your wine safe and secure due to moulded inserts holding the bottles in place. Also, this storage box complies with Australian Post Parcel dimensions. Therefore enabling you to use for postage, transit and storage. Overall, the Lay Flat Wine boxes are an essential packing supply for the transit of wine.

Labelling Moving Boxes

When using moving boxes you should always use labels. This is a great way to keep your possessions neat and easily accessible. Additionally, labelling boxes will make it easier to find things once placed among other moving boxes. Furthermore, another great tip is to create an inventory listing what is contained in each box, and then keep a copy of that inventory. This will enable you to locate possessions without the hassle of sorting through multiple moving boxes.

Quality of Moving Boxes

Although the cheaper option may seem better, this is not always the case with cardboard moving boxes. Cheap moving boxes can sometimes cause more hassle due to not being able to hold much weight. As well as not being secure or fully sealable. Therefore, if you’re wanting to ensure your possessions are going to be safe, opt for the higher quality boxes. Or otherwise purchase moving boxes through your storage provider. That way you’re able to receive help with choosing what’s best for your needs.

Furthermore, when it comes to moving house it is best to ensure you use the best storage supplies. Quality cardboard moving boxes will help to ensure your possessions are safe and secure whilst in transit. Along with this, labelling your moving boxes is also a great tip to make it easier for you to locate possessions once unpacking. Lastly, for more tips and information visit our moving boxes page, or keep an eye on our blog page.

Wine Storage

Most of us purchase a bottle of wine to enjoy right away but for those special wines that we want to cellar there are important rules for red and white wine storage to ensure your wines age well and increase in flavour and value.

Wine Storage Environment

Some winemakers have earned a reputation for creating wine worth aging, certain regions and certain type of wine age better than others, but the majority of wines on the market today are manufactured for immediate consumption and are not designed to age.

These wines are still of high quality and can be stored for 8 – 12 months or so without significant loss of quality as long as temperature, humidity and light of the area is considered. Though some wineries have earned a reputation for creating wine worth aging, additionally, certain regions and certain types of wine age better than others.

Temperature for Wine Storage

The ideal temperature to store wine is between 12-14°C. This temperature needs to remain constant all year round for optimal wine storage conditions. It is not recommended to store wine in the kitchen. This is one room in the house where the temperature can vary through out the day. That is when the oven or stove is on the temperature in the kitchen will heat up. If possible, the temperature should not fluctuate more than 2-3°C.

Heat can damage wine with wine show judge, Adam Walls, saying hot temperatures can cook the wine resulting in the wine losing its freshness. Heat can also compromise the seal of the wine which can lead to oxidation. Oxidation allows more air/oxygen into the wine. This can lead to wine evaporating leaving a low fill level and an oxidized flavor. Do not store wine in non insulated sheds or garages due to excessive fluctuations in temperatures. Avoid areas near heat sources such as heaters or electrical items that generate heat. Also high areas, such as on top of a cabinet, where hot air rises.

Wine Storage Humidity

Ideal wine storage conditions would maintain a 50% humidity level. That is humidity below about 50% is getting too dry and levels above 50% too damp. This maybe difficult to achieve. As long as the storage area has relative humidity levels ranging between 60-80% the wine should not spoil.

Dry conditions dry out the cork, causing it to shrink which can lead to oxidation. The majority of wine produced in Australia today are screw cap sealed. This alleviates the risk of the cork drying out. Wine storage areas that are too damp do not necessarily ruin the wine, it can lead to mold and mildew growing. This can ruin the storage area and wine labels.

Moreover, bottles with corks must be stored on their side. Screw caps can be stored in whichever way (standing up or lying down) suits you best.

Wine Storage in the dark

Do not store wine in direct sunlight. According to The Fine Wine Reserve although wine bottles are designed to protect the wine inside, UV light can break down the molecules that create the special flavors of a wine. This occurs more commonly in delicate white wines like Champagne, Pinot Grigio, and Sauvignon Blanc.

Do not store wine on window sills or bench tops. If storing in wine racks ensure they are placed out of direct sunlight. Areas in the house such as under an internal staircase or the bottom shelf of a cupboard or pantry are better.

Wine Self Storage

Your average wine drinker need not be too concerned about climate controlled secure self storage areas for their wine collection if seeking short term storage options. Wine can be stored short term safely in a insulated storage facility. When moving home for example, wine can be stored in wine boxes and placed in your storage unit.

If storage is for an extended period of time, a climate controlled purpose built wine storage facility should be used. This is also the case for collectors and enthusiasts of wine storing and aging fine wines. These places ensure the temperature, humidity and light remain in the optimal range for your special collection.

What does Booze Brothers say about wine storage?

Booze Brothers Bottle Shops are filled with passionate wine enthusiasts and we asked them for some of their top tips on wine storage.

Booze Brothers Manager (at The Duck), Duane says “Wine should be checked and turned regularly. If possible, store red wine in a climate controlled environment like a cellar. Good reds can be stored for up to 10 years, if a wine reaches it’s optimum it will slowly decrease from it’s best potential so remember to drink at special occasions and enjoy the rewards of your cellaring.”

Want to learn more about wine and wine storage?

Hitsa Industry Training and Employment provide a short 2 day course, Provide advice on Australian wines. If you are working in the wine industry, hospitality or just enjoy wine as a personal hobby this course will further your knowledge on handling, storing and evaluating Australian wine products.

Storing Couches – Clean, protect and store

Storing furniture and household goods are a good option when moving or renovating. Usually the most bulky item is your couch. There are some steps that need to be taken when storing couches to ensure it is protected. To ensure it comes out of storage as in good condition as it was before you locked it away, consider these 3 easy tips for couch storage.

Tips for Storing Couches

Clean before storage

Before storing furniture, you should clean the item thoroughly prior to storing to prevent deterioration. The same goes when storing couches. The best option would be to get your couch professionally cleaned, however this can be expensive. You can easily achieve the same result yourself with rubber gloves, good cleaning products and a little elbow grease.

With fabric couches check the fabric tag. It will tell you what fabric the couch is so you can clean it with appropriate cleaners. Most fabric couches can be cleaned with water based detergents or can be dry cleaned quite easily. I found Alexis Rohlins’ blog How to clean a couch without professional cleaning a good step by step guide to getting your couch clean and ready for storage.

Leather couches, however, can be polished using a microfibre cloth and leather polish which can be purchased at most supermarkets. Alternatively consider using a natural approach when cleaning leather with white vinegar or olive oil.

Most importantly, ensure your couch is completely dry after cleaning and storing. Moisture leads to mold which will ruin your couch.

Transporting and Storing Couches

Once cleaned cover your couch to protect it from scuffs, marks and dust. If possible dissemble your couch by removing cushions and feet for easier transportation and storage.

For the feet, consider covering in bubble wrap. If they are removable, once wrapped in bubble wrap place them in a bag. Attach the bag inside the couch so you can easily find them when you need to put them back on. Cushions can be wrapped in either plastic or fabric. For short term storage, plastic bags are fine to store the cushions and plastic couch covers can be used to cover your couch. Drop clothes or quilted pads are recommended for long term storage as they allow the air to circulate and prevent mildew forming.

For best protection against moisture you can place a Dry sac in the bag with your cushions and in the couch cover. Dry sacs work like silica gel and are designed to protect leather and furniture by absorbing any moisture.

Bubble wrap, plastic covers, quilted pads and Dry sacs can be purchased on the Store UR Stuff website. Store UR Stuff will deliver or you can visit in store to pick up.

Your storage unit

Ensure your unit is large enough. It is not always ideal to flip a couch on its side if it is going to be in there long term as this can warp the frame of your couch. It is also wise not to stack large or heavy items on your couch. Ensure there is space between items so items are not leaning and possibly indenting your couch. This will also improve air flow in your unit again reducing the risk of mildew forming.

For any couches that are precious such as heirlooms or collectables, climate controlled units are best. But for those that are moving house and need something short term the unit does not need to be climate controlled as long as it is clean and secure.

It is best to stand your couch off the unit floor – consider using pallets, blocks of wood or bricks. This goes for all items stored in a unit. It is always best to be safe than sorry, as much as storage facilities do their best to provide secure and clean units, accidents can happen. A spill from an adjoining storer could seep into your unit.

For further reading:

www.topcleaningsecrets.com/house/how-to-clean-a-leather-sofa-at-home.html

www.homeguides.sfgate.com/clean-couch-professional-cleaning-28846.html

 

Protecting UR Self Storage – Security Features

There are many reasons people use self-storage but one of the key reasons people put their stuff into self storage is to keep it clean, safe and secure. To keep your items safe and secure requires action by both the storer and the storage facility. Keep in mind that not all self storage facilities are created equal so it is important to ask the correct questions and make the right observations before you decide which facility is the best for you.

Choosing a Secure Self Storage Facility

Self storage is becoming a popular industry with most Australian states presenting several different options for consumers to choose from. It is important to look at all viable options presented when choosing a facility and comparing the security features they have to help you make up your mind. Security features should not only be present in the facility but also the grounds and surrounds of the facility. You need to ensure that not only your belongings are safe whilst they are there, but that you feel safe whilst you are at the facility.

Security features to check for:

Cameras

Ensure cameras are installed in and around the facility. When visiting a facility, try to locate a camera to ensure that it is not obstructed or covered and that there seems to be sufficient number of cameras so that you know your items are being monitored no matter where they are in the facility. Cameras may not stop criminal activity or thieves from breaking in, but they will assist if a break in does occur

Signs

Ensure there are signs in and around the facility advertising the security features of the facility. This may deter criminals from trying to break into a facility and gives customers the peace of mind that you know what is going on in the facility at all times

Security Monitored Alarms

This is different from just having an alarm in the facility. A monitored alarm is linked to a service that can summon appropriate help when activated. These days most alarms that go off are ignored by the general public, but by having it monitored the facility is paying someone to ensure a response is immediate when it is triggered. You may have to ask the storage facility if their alarm is monitored

Security gates

Ensure there are security gates at both the entry and exit points of the facility. This alone will not prevent criminals entering your site but will make it more difficult. Make sure there is adequate perimeter fencing that is strong, not damaged and high enough to keep intruders out. Fencing with barb wire at the top or gates with spikes on top will also ensure persons who do not have access do not gain access

Lights

Ensure that the facility and car park is well lit at night and that the lights are well positioned. Industrial level security lighting should be used both inside and out and a mixture of permanent and motion sensor lighting should be used. Ensure that the path from your car to your unit is well lit and the surrounding area is lit whilst using your unit

Access Control Systems

This requires customers to use traceable PIN numbers or security swipe cards to access the facility or their units and thus allows management to monitor “who’s inside”. These systems keep a log of all activity, including the date and time PIN numbers/swipe cards have been activated and how long individuals have been on the premise. Some facilities only give customers access when the office is manned, thus eliminating the need of access control systems but also restricting customer convenience

Individual Door Alarms

For optimal security some facilities have each individual unit alarmed so that is an unauthorised person tries to enter a unit an alarm will be triggered. You will need to check with the facility as to how these alarms are monitored

Fire and Smoke Alarms

Ensure fire and smoke alarms are present. You should be able to see the fire equipment around the facility. Ask facility staff to explain fire emergency procedures and ensure you are aware where your closest fire exit is from your unit. Also check to see if the facility is a smoke free environment, thus eliminating any potential risks of fire

Facility Audits

Facility audits should be a part of the facilities daily checklist. This audit can include lock integrity checks and will bring to your attention any signs of forced entering or tampering of locks immediately. It will ensure that if there was any criminal activity in the facility, management or the staff will be aware of it as soon as possible and action can be made immediately and security practices can be updated if needed. You may have to ask the facility manager if these are being carried out and how often

Padlock

Most self storage facilities require you to supply your own padlock. This is so you have total control over your storage and you are the only one who can access your storage unit. Most facilities will not hold any keys to your padlocks and therefore cannot enter or gain entry into your storage unit. At Store UR Stuff we say “It’s UR padlock, UR key and UR in control”.

Tips for Storing Clothes in Self Storage

Self storage tips

Whether you have a shopping obsession, too many clothes or you’re wanting to store your Summer clothes during Winter. Your wardrobe at home can only hold so much and sometimes you’re not ready to let go of certain items. So, why keep them stored at home taking up needed space when you can be storing clothes in self storage?

Storing clothes in self storage can be a great storage solution. Using self storage for your clothes can help free up needed storage space in your home. And allows you to hold onto some items for longer whilst you decide whether you really need them or not. In addition, renting a self storage unit near you is the best way to go. That way you’re able to access your clothes whenever you want or need.

Furthermore, storing clothes in a self storage unit is great. But, it’s important to know how to correctly store your clothes so that you can ensure they won’t get damaged over time. So, here are some great tips and tricks to help you with all your clothing storage needs!

1. Prepare items before storing clothes in self storage

Wash and iron your clothes before storing them in self storage. Surface stains and dirt will set into the clothing overtime and when you do finally get them out of your storage unit to use again the stain will be difficult to remove. Dirty clothing can also attract vermin and insects which may also damage your clothing. Ensure you wash all items as per their washing instructions. As well as dry clean your dry cleanable items prior to storing them.

Furthermore, follow these instructions when storing clothing in self storage to ensure your items are safe from being damaged. Preparing your clothes for storage correctly will also mean that your clothes are clean and ready to wear when needed next.

2. To vacuum seal or not to vacuum seal

There is a large range of storage bags available that are perfect for clothing storage. For example, vacuum storage bags are great space savers. However, over a long period of time storing your clothing in these bags will lead to damage.

Storing your clothing in vacuum packed bags will not only leave your clothing creased and wrinkled. But also quicken the process of deterioration as natural fibres need air to maintain its structure and integrity.

A better way for storing clothes in self storage is to use plastic storage tubs. This will help to avoid suffocating your items. Ensure you lightly pack them and start with the heavier items on the bottom. In addition, if you need to purchase a storage tub head to your local hardware store.

3. Say no to plastic bags and cardboard boxes

Like mentioned above, airtight plastic containers with a lid are the best options when storing clothing in self storage. This will keep your clothes dry and stop the growth of mould and mildew, in most cases. If using plastic containers, ensure they are clean, dry and line them with old (but clean) cotton sheets. Avoid plastic bags as these can trap moisture and cause mildew to form or cause the yellowing of fabrics.

In addition, packing your clothing in a cardboard storage box will not protect them against vermin or the elements. Your storage unit shouldn’t have pests, but it’s best to be safe than sorry.

Again, depending on the expense and sentimental value of the item, it’s best to use acid free boxes and tissue paper. Especially for heirloom items as not all plastic boxes are safe and some may release chemicals which could have subtle to grossly negative effects on the clothing.

4. Mothballs

Not only do mothballs leave your clothes smelling terrible, they are not 100% effective. They can also be potentially dangerous if found by children or pets. A better alternative is the natural wooden cedar balls. These will protect your clothing from moths, mildew and musty odours. Therefore, when storing clothes in a self storage unit it is always best to add a few cedar balls.

Furthermore, when using wooden cedar balls, make sure that they are not placed directly on the garments. It is best to place them at the top of your storage container for further protection.

5. Clean, cool, dark and dry

When choosing a storage unit for clothing storage, ensure you choose one that will protect your clothes in the best way possible. It’s best to choose a storage unit that is dry, dark and cool.

Ideally it is suggested that clothing should be stored in conditions that do not exceed 23°C and have low humidity. However, this is more of a guideline if you were storing any heirlooms or expensive sentimental items. As long as the storage space is clean, protects items from elements and doesn’t have direct/bright light, your clothing should be safe.

In addition, a climate controlled storage unit would be the best option for long-term clothing storage.

6. Check and do not protect!

It’s important to check on your items in storage, wherever and whatever you are storing. Checking your items at least once a year you will help minimise the risk of them getting damaged. As well as possibly save them before they do get damaged. Items may fall from storage shelving or you may have packed something too heavy/tight. So, checking your storage unit often is important.

Looking for a facility in Adelaide for storing clothes in self storage?

Furthermore, if you’re looking to store your clothes in self storage, Store Ur Stuff if a great choice for this! Store Ur Stuff is an Adelaide storage facility that offers a range of cheap storage options. Whether you’re needing a large storage unit or just something small, we have the perfect storage solution for you.

View our storage options online and make an enquiry today. Or alternatively, call our friendly team on 8371 0000.

Tips and tricks for organising your self storage unit

Make the most of your self storage space

Packing a storage unit takes nothing more than common sense. However, storage is usually used at a time of desperation and common sense does not always prevail. So below is a little list of what seems like common sense to help you make the most of your storage space.

Tips and Tricks:
  • Make an inventory of everything you are storing. If possible, take photos and list the estimated replacement value of each item
  • How often do you plan to access your goods? This will determine how you will pack your self storage unit and what you will pack together in each box. Keep items you want to access close to the front
  • Wherever possible, use boxes for your packing. Boxes stack easily and sealing them will protect your items from dust or dirt
  • Label all of your boxes. Consider labeling some or all sides of each box so you can easily see what’s inside, regardless of how you stack them in your unit
  • Seal boxes with tape to keep the dust out
  • Clearly mark boxes that hold delicate items as FRAGILE

Self Storage Units Shelving | Store UR Stuff

Self Storage Units Shelving | Store UR Stuff

  • Fill boxes to capacity where possible, as this stops things from moving around. Don’t make them too heavy as this will make them hard to lift, and you risk the bottom of your box breaking with the weight
  • Full boxes will be sturdier to stack in your unit
  • Place your heaviest boxes at the bottom of your stack
  • If you regularly need to access your items whilst in storage consider shelving so that your items are easily visible
  • To make the best use of your storage space, dismantle furniture and fill anything that is hollow, such as wardrobes, washing machines or fridges, with small boxes and other items
  • Wedge the door of the kitchen appliances so that they can’t shut. This will help avoid mildew or odour build up
  • Store all bolts, nuts and screws to any dismantled items in a zip-lock glad bag and tape it to the item you have removed them from
  • Get a professional to stack your storage space. Removalists are experienced in getting all your items into their truck and stacking a storage unit is pretty much the same. They will ensure you are using every square inch in your unit

Please feel free to add to this list by leaving a comment