Storage tips

Here are a few thoughts to make your storage experience more pleasant and less hectic…

Save space, save money...
	Self-storage is a convenient and inexpensive way to store your belongings. Ask your storage consultant to help you choose a size that fits your needs. Unit rates are determined by the total size of the unit and while bigger costs more, it is less expensive on a square foot basis. An efficiently packed smaller space will always cost less than a large jumbled one. If you frequently use the space, a larger unit may be more convenient.
Protect what you store…
	Use quality boxes and fill them to capacity; partially full or bulging containers may collapse or tip. For dishware or fragile items wrap with packing paper or bubble wrap (the ink will come off old newspapers and may stain). Place old pallets or 2x4's under boxes and furniture in the storage unit to prevent drawing moisture from the concrete. Leave a small air space between the goods stored and the storage unit walls. We do get wind and dust in Douglas so it is a good idea to cover furniture with plastic covers.
	Inspect the storage unit to insure that it is the right size and will be accessible for your specific needs. For your protection, we provide a written agreement. Read it thoroughly (we can send you a copy beforehand) and ask the storage consultant to answer all your questions. In lieu of a deposit, we charge a nominal administrative fee. We ask for the first month's rent at move in and then prorate your rent to the first of the month the second month. If you change your address or phone number, be sure to notify us as soon as possible and preferably in writing.
Insurance…
	What you place in your unit is the sole responsibility of you, their owner. The storage facility (by law) cannot insure your property. In Wyoming, storage facilities are not allowed to sell insurance to their customers. We will be happy to provide some names of local insurance agents. If you own a home, your homeowner's insurance should cover the contents but you may have to notify your agent beforehand. If you rent, renter's insurance is a very cheap option.
Oops, what you can't store…
	Common sense and state laws determine what may be stored. You alone control access to your storage space; therefore, never store living creatures or organisms, dead animals or other carcasses, gasoline, oil, fuel or other flammable chemicals, explosives, fireworks or ammunition, corrosives, toxic or hazardous materials, asbestos or products containing asbestos, items having a noxious smell, controlled substances, prohibited weapons under state law, stolen property, or any other items illegal for self storage under any law. Remember to drain the fuel from gasoline engines before storage.
Plan, plan, plan…
	If possible, look at the storage unit beforehand to be sure that it is the right size. We can find one that is a better fit very easy at this stage. You will want plenty of sturdy boxes, packing paper, sealing tape and a marking pen. Label and number the boxes and make a list for easy reference later. Place those items that you need to get to often in the moving vehicle first (so they'll be placed in the front of the storage space). Use a quality lock on your storage unit door. Cheap locks will stop working and have to be cut off.