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You have two options: self-storage and pick up and delivery storage.
1) Self-storage
Self storage (sometimes called mini-storage) works best for items that you are likely to retrieve, but don't have available space at home. A mini-storage unit is convenient and accessible, and you provide your own lock and key for added security. Individual units, in a variety of sizes and shapes, are available to fit your needs. You rent a unit on a monthly basis under an "occupancy agreement." Some companies may also bill you for electricity. You may move your items into the unit yourself, or if you have a couple of heavier items, you can request a pickup. Many ministorage facilities will provide free pickup if you agree to keep your items in the unit for a certain length of time. In these cases, when the driver arrives with the truck, it will be your responsibility to load your items. The driver will accept no liability for your items.
How to select your self-storage unit
Before you place your items into a storage space, it is imperative that you inspect the facilities. Your unit should have sufficient amount of space for all of your items. Create an inventory of all of the items that you wish to place into storage, so that if you don't know which size unit to select, you'll have something to show to a facility worker. Self-storage facilities offer many types of security features, ranging from alarms, motion detectors, video surveillance, nightly inspections, and guards on duty. You will have to provide your own lock and key, so that only you and those you allow will have access to the unit.
Insurance for Your Items
You maintain complete responsibility for the items that you place inside your storage unit. The storage facility bears no responsibility for your items. As such, we recommend that you seek additional insurance from the facility itself. Just inquire with the company's representative. Some home owner's and renter's policies cover theft off premises, and would cover what is in storage. To find out if this applies to you, call your home owners or renter's insurance provider. Take a complete inventory and keep it current. we recommend avoiding storing valuables and antiques.
2) Container Pickup & Delivery Services
Some self-storage companies will deliver a container (or containers) to your home. You will need to determine the number of containers. To help decide, we recommend creating an inventory of all of the items that you wish to place into storage.
The driver will provide you with instructions on how you load your items and lock your container. You'll provide your own lock and key and have as much time as you need to load your items into the container. When you're finished, you call the facility for a pickup, they will then transport your filled container to their facility. When you wish to retrieve your items, you have the option of going to the facilities or having the container delivered to you. If you choose to go to the facility, you'll need to call several hours in advance.
When you cannot immediately move into your new home or apartment, you will need to find a storage facility in which to place your items. If your new home or apartment is smaller (or has suddenly become smaller) than your old one, you may also need to store a few seldom-used items. Selecting a storage facility is an important decision. There are many factors that you should consider before you decide, such as size, security, location, and price.
If you are planning to place many items into storage well ahead of your move, you should hire a moving company that has their own storage facilities. They will move your items free of charge provided that you rent the storage space for a certain length of time.
Inspect your storage space
Before you place your items into a storage space, it is imperative that you inspect the facilities. The unit should have sufficient amount of space for all of your items. The facility should be located in a convenient spot near your new residence and accessible 24-hours.
The storage unit should be clean, climate-controlled, and above all, secure. Storage facilities offer many types of security features, ranging from alarms, motion detectors, video surveillance, and guards on duty. You will also have the option to have your own lock and key, so that only you and your family will have access to the unit.
Placing your items in storage
Keep a list of your entire inventory. Label all boxes and containers. When placing the boxes and containers in the unit, do so in a way that you can read the labels easily.
Plan far ahead when storing your items. Which ones do you anticipate needing or using the most often? Make sure that you place those near the front of the unit for easy access.
Avoid collapsing boxes by filling them to their maximum capacity. Pack your heavy items in smaller boxes for easy lifting and moving. Try to avoid storing any valuables. If you must, keep them out of the door's site. Use all of your space but make sure to leave sufficient space for ventilation and walk-way access.
Insurance for your items in storage
You will be completely responsible for the items that you place in your storage unit. It is advisable that you seek insurance. Take a complete inventory. Avoid storing valuables and antiques. Storage facilities will not insure any of your items except for moving companies that have their own facilities and have moved your items for you. This is because they have no ownership in your items. Thus, inspecting the facilities beforehand for its security is of the utmost importance.
The following is a list of simple tips on how to properly store your goods:
Furniture
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Cover all furniture and disassemble, if possible.
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Wrap table legs with packing paper as scratch protection.
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Lay down blankets or a pallet between the furniture and the floor of the storage unit.
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Place assembled tables top down on floor with legs pointing towards the ceiling.
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Stack chairs seat-to-seat with cloth or paper separating them.
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Avoid stacking or leaning furniture against outside walls.
Metal
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Wipe a few drops of oil on bicycles and tools as a rust protector.
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Avoid oil staining by storing exposed items in a separate space.
Breakables
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Wrap plates, saucers, and bowls individually before placing it in a china carton.
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Use a china carton divider kit for increased security.
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Fill paper into bottom, top and empty spaces in the carton.
Book and Valuable Papers
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Use file boxes. They are the best containers for your important documents.
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Pack books flat and fill any empty space to minimize movement.
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Avoid overfilling cartons. Books are heavy.
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Keep pallets free of moisture by placing plastic sheeting on top of them.
Large Appliances and Equipment
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Leave appliance doors slightly ajar. Moisture and mildew will damage your valuables so make sure your refrigerator or freezer is clean and dry.
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Use valuable storage space inside appliance's for small items.
Clothes
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Avoid excessive wrinkling to your clothes by employing wardrobe boxes.
Find-it Apartment Locators
6800 Bintliff, Houston, TX 77074
Houston, TX 77096
713-271-9800
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