Common Storage Unit Questions
Below are a few of the most common questions we get from potential customers. If you have a question that isn’t addressed here, please contact A-1 Self-Storage and we’d be happy to answer any and all questions about storing your items.
How much does a storage unit cost?
Your rental unit will vary based on unit size, location and details like climate control, security features, etc.
What happens if my belongings get damaged or stolen?
Before you purchase a storage unit, you’ll need to contact your insurance agent to find out whether your homeowner or renter’s insurance policy covers your belongings when they’re in a self-storage unit. If not, you may be able to buy insurance from a self-storage facility or an independent insurer. This is important in case you experience theft, natural disasters (floods, tornadoes, earthquakes), etc.
How do you handle bugs and/or pests?
A-1 has pest control professionals who visit regularly. It’s extremely important to prevent infestations because pests can do much damage to belongings. We make sure to address pest issues not just monthly, but seasonally.
Should I take any special precautions with packing my items?
With furniture, start by removing all flexible parts, like table and chair legs, and wrap them in bubble wrap or another protective material to keep them in good condition. Use furniture covers to wrap larger pieces. Store large furniture vertically on end and utilize refrigerators, drawers, and cabinets to maximize the space. For proper ventilation, leave some space between stacks and around the edges of your storage unit. Also consider using wardrobe boxes to hang your clothes, so the fabrics can breathe while in storage.
Do You Need Climate Control in Your Storage Unit?
Depending on the type of possessions you plan on storing, you may consider a climate-controlled unit.
Climate control keeps temperature and humidity levels constant, avoiding the sweltering heat and frigid temperatures that can damage items when stored for a long period of time. Items such as wood, leather, pictures, videotapes, and more, may experience cracking, warping, yellowing or fading. Other items that may be susceptible to temperature and/or humidity damage include:
- Bedding and mattresses
- Appliances
- Books
- Sporting Equipment
- Antiques
- Electronics
- Pianos and other musical instruments
If you’re storing expensive or irreplaceable items—especially if they hold sentimental or historical value—you should consider climate control.
What will fit in my storage unit?
We have several different storage unit sizes to choose from. To learn more about these sizes, visit our Storage Sizes page. To ensure you plan effectively for your unit, take an inventory of the items you’d like to store. Start a list and then group the items that you’d like to store together. For example, large items on the bottom, and lighter, more fragile items on the top. Draw a rough map of your storage space so you have a basic idea of how you’d like to have items arranged in the space. Make sure to leave room for a walk path, especially in a larger unit.
Are there any restrictions on the types of things I can store?
We do not allow flammable, perishable or combustible items. Additionally, with all home and garden equipment, we require you to drain all gasoline and/or remove batteries before storing appliances.