6 Ways College Students Can Use Self Storage

overlooked is managing your belongings. Dorm rooms and apartments are notorious for their limited space, and as a result, many college students find themselves in need of extra storage space. Self-storage facilities such as self storage Burnaby and self storage Mission can be a game-changer for students, offering a convenient and secure solution for managing their belongings. In this article, we’ll explore six ways college students can make the most of self-storage during their academic journey.

Storing Seasonal Clothing

College students often need a variety of clothing for different seasons. Instead of overcrowding your already cramped closet, consider using self-storage for storing seasonal clothing like winter coats, boots, and summer swimwear. This way, you can easily access the appropriate attire when needed without cluttering your living space.

Furniture Storage

Many college students move into furnished dorms or apartments, and these spaces may not allow for personal furniture. If you have furniture items you’d like to keep but don’t have room for, self-storage is an excellent option. It ensures your furniture remains in good condition and is ready to use when you move to a more permanent location.

Study Abroad Semester

Studying abroad is an incredible opportunity for college students, but it often involves a temporary move to another country. Instead of lugging all your belongings with you, you can store your items in a self-storage unit. This provides peace of mind, knowing your possessions are safe and secure while you explore the world.

Home for the Summer

When the academic year ends, many students head back to their family homes for the summer. Self-storage is a perfect solution for keeping your belongings secure during this time. It saves you from transporting everything back and forth and ensures your items are ready when you return for the next semester.

Decluttering Living Spaces

College students living in small spaces can quickly become overwhelmed by clutter. Self-storage allows you to declutter your living area by safely storing items you don’t need daily. This can create a more comfortable and organized living environment, conducive to studying and relaxation.

Keeping Valuables Safe

Valuable items like electronics, musical instruments, and sentimental possessions need a secure place. Self-storage facilities offer enhanced security, such as surveillance cameras, keypad access, and climate control, which can protect your belongings from theft and environmental damage.

College life can be a lot to juggle, and managing your belongings shouldn’t be a source of stress. Self-storage provides college students with a practical and flexible solution to store their items securely. Whether it’s for seasonal clothing, furniture, study abroad adventures, summer breaks, decluttering, or protecting valuables, self-storage can be a valuable resource for students. By taking advantage of these storage solutions, you can make your college experience more organized, enjoyable, and hassle-free.

5 Small Businesses That Can Benefit from Self Storage

Running a small business often means dealing with limited space. Whether you’re an online retailer, a service provider, or a creative entrepreneur, finding adequate storage solutions such as self storage Burnaby, self storage Mission, or self storage Victoria for your business needs can be a challenge. This is where self-storage facilities come to the rescue. In this blog post, we’ll explore five types of small businesses that can benefit from using self-storage.

  1. eCommerce Retailers

With the rise of e-commerce, many small businesses are selling products online. While this eliminates the need for physical storefronts, it also presents challenges in terms of storing inventory. Self-storage units provide an economical storage solution for e-commerce businesses to store excess stock, packing materials, and seasonal items. This way, you can maintain a streamlined and organized workspace.

  1. Contractors and Tradespeople

Contractors, electricians, plumbers, and other tradespeople often accumulate a substantial amount of tools, equipment, and materials. Storing these items at home or in a crowded work van can be impractical. A self storage unit can serve as a secure and convenient hub for storing tools and materials, making them easily accessible when needed for projects.

  1. Creative Professionals

Artists, photographers, and designers often require a dedicated space for their work. Self-storage units can be transformed into creative studios or workspaces. Not only does this provide a private and quiet environment, but it also protects your equipment and artwork from the elements.

  1. Service-Based Businesses

Service-oriented businesses such as cleaning services, event planners, and home staging often require a stockpile of equipment, furniture, and supplies. Instead of cluttering your home or office, consider using self-storage to keep these items organized and easily accessible when you need them for various jobs.

  1. Seasonal Businesses

Some businesses operate seasonally, such as holiday decor companies or snow removal services. During the off-season, storage needs may decrease significantly. A self-storage unit can be a flexible solution to store equipment, inventory, and decorations during the off-season, allowing you to keep your business assets safe and well-preserved.

Benefits of Self Storage for Small Businesses

  • Economical: Self storage is often more economical than renting additional office or warehouse space, saving you money.
  • Security: Most self-storage facilities provide security features like surveillance cameras, gated access, and individual locks, ensuring your business assets are safe.
  • Flexibility: Self-storage leases are typically month-to-month, providing flexibility to adjust your storage space based on your business’s changing needs.
  • Accessibility: You can access your stored items whenever you need them, making self-storage an excellent solution for businesses that require frequent access to inventory, tools, or equipment.
  • Organization: Self-storage can help keep your workspace and home clutter-free, making it easier to focus on your business operations.

Small businesses in various industries can reap the benefits of self-storage. Whether you need to store inventory, equipment, supplies, or create a dedicated workspace, self-storage facilities offer flexibility, security, and convenience, helping you streamline your business operations and maximize your available space. Consider self-storage as a valuable asset in growing and managing your small business effectively.

Moving Day Made Easy: Your Guide to a Stress-Free Move

Moving day is one of those events that seem distant on the calendar until it creeps up on you suddenly. The stress, the hustle, and the feeling that something important might slip through the cracks can be overwhelming. To make your move a smooth and organized experience, here are some valuable pointers to help you prepare for the big day.

Moving day is one of those events that seem distant on the calendar until it creeps up on you suddenly. The stress, the hustle, and the feeling that something important might slip through the cracks can be overwhelming. To make your move a smooth and organized experience, here are some valuable pointers to help you prepare for the big day.

Rent a Storage Unit Ahead of Time

If your move involves storing some of your belongings, consider renting a storage unit ahead of time. Companies like Public Storage offer this service, allowing you to set up your storage unit well in advance. Here’s why this can be a game-changer:

  • Your lease agreement is already signed.
  • Your storage account is set up and ready.
  • The first month’s rent on your storage unit is already paid.
  • The unit is move-in ready, requiring only your lock and access code.

By a storage unit ahead of time, you eliminate last-minute hassles and ensure a seamless transition for your items.

Take Advantage of Checklists

Keeping track of details during a move is essential. Use a checklist to centralize important tasks, whether it’s through a handy app or good old-fashioned pen and paper. Your checklist can help you:

  • Keep a record of the number of boxes, their contents, and which room they belong to.
  • List all the places where you need to update your change of address.
  • Compare the location and quotes from local movers or truck rental services.
  • A checklist keeps everything in one place, making it easier to manage.

Buy All Your Moving Supplies in Advance

Using garbage bags as a substitute for proper moving boxes is not ideal. Stock up on essential packing supplies such as:

  • Sturdy boxes and bins.
  • Protective materials like bubble wrap, packing peanuts, and shrink-wrap.
  • Furniture covers for mattresses and upholstered furniture.
  • Box cutters, labels, and tape.

Having these supplies ready in advance will make the packing process more efficient and your items better protected.

Organize Your Move Ahead of Time

For a DIY move, ensuring your team of helpers is well-prepared is crucial. Here’s how to get organized before the big day:

  • Declutter your possessions to reduce the items you need to move. Consider storing the things you’re uncertain about.
  • Provide friends and family with ample notice so they can plan to assist you on moving day.
  • Have everything packed and ready to go, so your team only needs to carry items to the vehicle.
  • Preparation is key to a successful move, and having a well-organized team can make the process smoother.

Safety Tips for Moving and Storage

Safety should always be a top priority during a move. Consider these safety tips to protect yourself and your belongings:

Avoid overloading boxes and bend at the knees, not the waist, when lifting heavy objects.

  • Protect your hands with hand sanitizer and a pair of work gloves.
  • Wear closed-toe or safety shoes to keep your feet safe.
  • Ensure box labels are brightly colored and have large print for easy visibility.
  • Taking these precautions will help prevent accidents and ensure a safe and efficient move.

With these valuable tips, moving day doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. By pre-renting your storage unit, using checklists, having the right supplies, getting organized in advance, and prioritizing safety, you can ensure a smooth and successful move. When moving day arrives, you’ll be well-prepared and ready to tackle the challenges with confidence.

A Comprehensive Guide to Hiring a Moving Company: Repurposing Your Move for Success

Hiring a moving company can be a game-changer when it comes to a smooth and efficient move. To make the most of this service and ensure a successful relocation, here’s everything you need to know.

Hiring a moving company can be a game-changer when it comes to a smooth and efficient move. To make the most of this service and ensure a successful relocation, here’s everything you need to know.

Research and Compare Moving Companies

Do your homework and research different moving companies in your area. Read reviews, check their credentials, and compare their services and pricing. Consider factors such as experience, reputation, and insurance coverage to select a reliable and reputable moving company.

Get Multiple Quotes

Request quotes from several moving companies to compare their prices and services. Make sure to provide accurate information about the size of your move, distance, and any additional services you may require. Avoid basing your decision solely on price; consider the overall value and reputation of the company.

Plan Ahead

Contact moving companies well in advance to secure a booking. Popular moving seasons, such as summer and weekends, tend to fill up quickly, so plan ahead to ensure availability. Make a moving timeline and schedule to stay organized and on track throughout the process.

Understand the Services Offered

Different moving companies offer different services, so understand what is included in their packages. This may include packing, loading, transportation, unloading, unpacking, and additional services such as packing supplies or self storage. Clarify any questions or concerns you may have with the moving company to avoid surprises on moving day.

Get Proper Insurance Coverage

Check the insurance coverage provided by the moving company and consider purchasing additional insurance if needed. Understand the extent of coverage for your belongings during the move and clarify any doubts with the moving company. Proper insurance coverage can give you peace of mind during the move.

Declutter and Downsize

Before the move, take the opportunity to declutter and downsize your belongings. Purge items you no longer need or use to minimize the amount of stuff you have to move. This can save you time, effort, and money in packing and transportation costs.

Label and Pack Strategically

Proper packing is crucial for a successful move. Label your boxes clearly with their contents and their intended room in the new home. Pack fragile items carefully with appropriate packing materials. Consider packing an essentials box with important items you’ll need immediately upon arrival at your new home.

Communicate with the Moving Company

Keep open communication with the moving company throughout the process. Inform them of any changes, updates, or special requirements. Be responsive to their inquiries and provide necessary information to ensure a smooth move.

Be Prepared on Moving Day

Be ready on moving day by packing ahead of time, disassembling furniture if needed, and keeping important documents and valuables with you. Be present during the loading and unloading process to oversee the move and address any concerns.

Show Appreciation

After the move, show appreciation to the moving company by providing feedback, leaving reviews, and referring them to others. A positive review or referral can benefit the moving company and help future customers make informed decisions.

By following these tips and understanding the ins and outs of hiring a moving company, you can repurpose your move for success and ensure a smooth and hassle-free relocation to your new home. Happy moving!

How To Prepare Your RV For Winter Storage

If you’re an avid RVer and you live and travel in Canada, chances are climate conditions just don’t permit you to enjoy your RV all year round. When you’re facing cold rainy seasons or deep winter weather every year, getting your RV properly winterized and ready for seasonal RV storage is a necessity.

Once you’ve selected a site where you’d like to store your recreational vehicle, there’s plenty of preparation work to do before you put it away for the season. To help you get started, we’ve gathered some essential tips to help you keep your RV in tip-top shape for RV storage.

If you’re an avid RVer and you live and travel in Canada, chances are climate conditions just don’t permit you to enjoy your RV all year round. When you’re facing cold rainy seasons or deep winter weather every year, getting your RV properly winterized and ready for seasonal RV storage is a necessity.

Once you’ve selected a site where you’d like to store your recreational vehicle, there’s plenty of preparation work to do before you put it away for the season. To help you get started, we’ve gathered some essential tips to help you keep your RV in tip-top shape for RV storage.

Clean and wax your vehicle’s exterior surfaces

Exposure to sunlight can cause a lot of hazards in the long run. It can fade your vehicle’s paint job, and do damage to its rubber and vinyl components. To help prevent this, apply a thorough wash and a good coat of wax to your RV before storing it.

Reseal any tears, cracks, or openings in the body and roof of your RV

It doesn’t take much for the smallest opening to create a world of trouble. If undetected or untreated, water leaks can create mildew formation, and even structural damage to your motorhome. If you discover any suspected openings in your vehicle, seal them properly before putting it in storage.

Remove Food from the RV

It’s important to remove food or spices and such in the RV and because food and spices attract rodents and insects.

Leave rooftop vents open

Don’t like the musty smell of a dank basement? You can eliminate the potential of this unwanted odour by leaving your RV’s overhead vents open, with a vent cover installed overtop to keep the rain out.

Screen or cover any vent or pipe openings to the outside

Overlooking these areas is an open invitation to any pest large enough to infiltrate. Place special fly screens over appliances and gas vents, and pipe ends, to block pesky insects like wasps. Use expanding foam or silicone to plug openings underneath your vehicle to keep out rodents. Don’t forget to leave traps inside the RV, too, just in case!

Pay attention to security when you store your RV

Getting a specialty lock designed for your vehicle type is a smart investment, and acts as an effective theft deterrent. Thieves tend to look for the easiest targets, so make sure your RV utilizes high-quality security devices. Choose a RV storage facility with onsite security features, like surveillance cameras and high-powered outdoor lighting. Additionally, you should also keep appropriate insurance on your vehicle, in case anything happens to it while it’s in storage.

Keep your tires fully inflated to the recommended maximum pressure

To prevent weakening during storage, keep your RV’s tires inflated to the maximum pressure recommended by the manufacturer, and cover them to avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight. Give your tires a good soapy wash to get rid of the build-up they’ve acquired on the road. If possible, especially if you’re storing for the long term, raise your vehicle onto blocks or use lift jacks so that it’s not resting directly on the tires.

Place a wooden plank between the tires and the ground

If you’re not going to be using wheel blocks or jacks, make sure the parking surface you plan to use is firm and even. If the ground is made of asphalt, leave a piece of plywood underneath the tires to prevent surface oils from wearing on the tire rubber over time. You sure won’t want an unexpected blowout next time you hit the road!

Keep your RV covered

If it’s made of breathable material, it’s a good idea to place a cover over your motorhome to protect it from dirt, and from the elements if you’re storing it outside. The breathable fabric will allow enough air flow to keep mildew from growing underneath while you’re away.

Wash your vehicle’s interiors thoroughly

Giving the inside of your RV a good wash not only prepares it for the next travel season, it also rids the vehicle of any residual food particles or odours that might attract unwanted guests. This is also a good opportunity to discover small openings to the outside which can enable any such pests to pass through, such as cracks between wires or cables. When doing your cleaning and inspection, don’t make the mistake of forgetting about cupboards, drawers, and closets. After washing, leave the RV’s interiors as dry as possible to guard against mold.

Close the window shades

Prolonged exposure to the sun can leech the colours right out of your motorhome’s interior fabric, such as carpets and upholstery. Use the daylight shades to shield your vehicle from the sun’s rays, while still allowing light inside. Having at least some light filter in will have the effect of discouraging mold growth.

Keep your cabinets and closets open

You should also prop open your refrigerator door, while you’re at it. Leaving such internal components open will prevent moisture and mould buildup while you’re away. And place a box of baking soda inside the fridge for odour control.

Take out any items from your RV which can freeze

Any liquid remaining in your vehicle can easily freeze over the winter. When it thaws, it can cause damage from bursting inside pipes, and create a huge mess. This can happen to the contents of containers, too, so remove items like liquid soap, water bottles, soda pop, cleaners, etc.

Remove your RV’s batteries

It’s important not to allow your batteries to freeze, so disconnect them and store them safely above ground in a dry, separate area with a heat source. Also, like fuses, dry cell batteries can passively consume power, even if the appliance in question is turned off. Check items like clocks and radios, and remove the batteries from these devices. This also eliminates the risk of battery corrosion, which can occur if such items are not in use for long periods of time.

On a final note, it’s still a good idea to go and check on your trailer or motorhome every once in a while, just to make sure everything is in order. This is especially true if you’re storing outdoors. After all, security cameras onsite won’t be able to alert you to things like a slow tire leak or minor damage caused by a storm. You’ll also want to verify that there are no unexpected moisture leaks or pest infiltration that occurred during your absence, so be on the lookout for signs of chewing, droppings, or water flows inside the vehicle.

By taking proactive storage measures for your vehicle, especially in combination with the occasional check-up, your RV should be just as you left it. You’ll be good to go when the travel season rolls around again!