Public Storage--Storing Your Stuff

So you landed that once-in-a-lifetime job on the other side of the country, but want to rent before finding a permanent home in your new city? Perhaps you are remodeling your new home before you move in. Now comes the question of what you will do with all of your stuff, perhaps even your car. Public storage is a convenient, worry-free option. With so many options available, finding the right one for you is easy no matter what, how much, or how long you wish to keep your stuff in storage. Answering the following questions will help you get a good idea of the best route for you.

How much stuff do you have?

This is a no-brainer, but still important. Renting a unit that is too small means having to squeeze all of your possessions into a small space, potentially damaging something. Renting too much space is a waste of money. Some public storage companies offer diagrams on their web sites to help give you an idea of which size storage unit best suits your needs. Give yourself a bit of wiggle room so you will not have to keep any unnecessary possessions with you.

Do you need it all?

Most people can stand to lighten their loads a bit. By getting rid of old clothes,  kitchenware, furniture, electronics, even secondary cars you not only have less to haul, but can save money by downsizing your storage unit.

Will anything you are storing require special measures?

The list of items that require special care is endless: art, wine, antique cars, and the like. Luckily, many public storage companies offer climate-controlled units to help guard delicate items against extreme temperatures. Public storage complexes are generally very secure, and usually have surveillance or security guards on site.

Will you be storing an auto?

If your family only needs one car for the move, public storage is your best bet for a few reasons, including preventing damage. Most public storage companies store cars, but before you leave, make sure you have taken the following steps:

• Fill the gas tank to prevent condensation a well as rusting.
• Wash, wax, and vacuum your car.
• Remove the windshield wiper blades to prevent sticking.
• Check all fluid levels.
• Change the oil.
• If you cannot find someone to periodically start and run the car, prevent a dead battery by attaching a battery maintainer, which will perform the same service.
• If your parking break is on, release it to prevent the pads from sticking.
• Leave a window cracked to prevent moisture accumulation.

You may need to take a few additional steps before rushing off to your new destination, depending on your car's needs. These may include draping your car with a cloth cover or jacking it up to prevent flat spots on your tires. Talk to your mechanic about such measures if you think your car has needs beyond the basics.

Does your moving company offer storage?

You can completely remove a step or two from the moving process by having the movers take both storage and destination-bound items away in the same trip if the moving company you hire provides storage. Plus, retrieving your stuff from storage would then just be a matter of calling your moving company.

Out of sight, out of mind

Unless you have very generous friends or relatives with lots of extra space, public storage is the only option if taking all of your possessions with you is impossible. Be sure to seek out the best deals on storage units in your area if your moving company does not offer storage. As you search for the best deal, keep in mind not only how much you want to spend, but also how long you plan to keep your things in storage.