Calgary’s housing market is booming, and renovations are a common sight. Whether you’re moving to a new home, refreshing your current space, or simply need some extra breathing room, self-storage can be a lifesaver during these transitions. It provides a secure, temporary haven for your belongings while you navigate the next chapter.
But before you toss everything into a unit and slam the door shut, a little preparation goes a long way. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to ensure your belongings stay safe and sound in their temporary Calgary home:
Declutter and Sort
Self storage in Calgary shouldn’t become a graveyard for forgotten belongings. Before packing anything, dedicate some time to decluttering. Sort through your items and be honest with yourself.
Do you really need that chipped China set from your Great Aunt? Is that old ski equipment ever going to see the slopes again? Donate, sell, or recycle what you don’t need. A ruthless decluttering session will not only save you money on storage space but also make it easier to find things later.
Check Storage Facility Restrictions
Calgary self-storage facilities may have specific rules about what you can and can’t store. These restrictions are in place to protect everyone who’s using the facility and to prevent damage to the stored items themselves. Here are some common examples of prohibited items:
Perishables: Food items attract pests and can decompose, creating unpleasant odors and unsanitary conditions.
Hazardous Materials: Flammable liquids, paints, propane tanks, and other hazardous materials pose a fire and explosion risk.
Living Things: Animals and plants can’t be stored in self-storage units. Not only is it cruel to keep living creatures in such an environment, but they can also attract pests and damage stored belongings.
Illegal Items: Storing stolen goods, illegal substances, or hazardous waste is strictly prohibited.
Certain Automotive Fluids: Engine oil, antifreeze, and other car fluids can leak and damage other stored items. Check with your facility for their specific policy on these materials.
If you’re unsure whether a particular item is allowed in your self storage in Calgary, it’s best to err on the side of caution and check with the facility manager. They’ll be happy to answer your questions and ensure you’re following the storage guidelines.
Strategize Your Packing
How you organize your storage unit can make a difference in how much you can store and how easy it is to retrieve items later on. Here are a few additional strategies:
Use Clear Plastic Bins: For items you may need to access frequently, consider using clear plastic bins instead of cardboard boxes. This allows you to see the contents without opening the bin, saving time and effort.
Stack Strategically: Stack boxes and bins in a way that heavier, less frequently needed items are on the bottom, and lighter, more frequently needed items are on top. This not only protects your belongings from damage but also makes retrieving items easier.
Dismantle What You Can: Break down furniture and larger items if possible. This reduces their footprint and makes it easier to fit more into your unit. Keep all related hardware in labeled bags attached to the item or stored in a designated ‘hardware’ box.
Vacuum Pack: For clothing, curtains, and linens, use vacuum-sealed bags. These bags compress items, saving a ton of space, and protect against moisture, dust, and pests.
Room Labels: Label boxes with the room they came from in addition to their contents. This simplifies the unpacking process, whether you’re retrieving items for use or eventually moving them out of storage.
By incorporating these strategies into your packing process, you’ll optimize your storage space and keep your belongings in pristine condition for when you need them again.
Maximize Space Efficiency in Your Unit
Once you have everything packed, it’s time to think about how to arrange it all within the unit to maximize its benefits. Here are some space-saving strategies:
Utilize Vertical Space: Stack boxes securely, placing heavier items on the bottom. Invest in plastic storage shelves for additional organization.
Leave A Central Aisle: Create an accessible pathway to access items at the back of the unit.
Fill Empty Spaces: Use leftover packing peanuts or furniture pads to fill gaps between boxes for added stability.
By implementing these strategies—utilizing vertical space, leaving a central aisle, and filling empty spaces—you’ll maximize the efficiency of your storage unit. This organized approach saves space and keeps your items easily accessible and well-protected.
Climate Control Considerations
Calgary’s climate can be harsh, with hot summers and cold winters. Consider climate-controlled storage if you’re storing sensitive items like electronics, artwork, or musical instruments. These units maintain a consistent temperature and humidity level, protecting your belongings from extreme fluctuations.
Protect Your Investment
Security is a major concern for many self-storage users. After all, you’re entrusting your valuable possessions to a facility. Thankfully, the self-storage industry has a strong focus on security. Most facilities offer a variety of security features, including perimeter fencing, security cameras, and gated access.
To add an extra layer of protection, purchase a high-quality lock for your unit. Renter’s insurance can also provide valuable peace of mind, covering your belongings in case of theft or damage caused by fire, water, or vandalism.
Conclusion
Conquering your self-storage experience starts with this checklist. By following these simple steps, you can transform a potentially daunting task into a convenient storage solution. With a little planning and organization, your belongings will be safe and secure until you need them again, ready to be integrated into your life.
