by Scott Meyers of Self Storage Investing

Note: After today’s blog post, I’ll be focusing my writing efforts elsewhere. To stay up to date with me and SSI, visit our website and see what new projects we’re working on next.

For valuable collectors of all kinds, storage – the right type of storage – is key to keeping your items safe. Choosing an environment that is too wet, dry, hot, cold, or virtually any other variable can cause your valuables to sustain serious damage … even when they’re not being exposed to the elements. The tricky part, however, is that the right storage environment for your books may not be the right storage environment for your woodwork, or your movie collection, or your antiques, and so on. Keeping each item in its particular specifications can help increase longevity, and worth. Be sure to look up characteristics before you store to enjoy these and other benefits.

Salt Mines

When it comes to old collectables, salt mines are often a storage space of choice. Old movie posters, equipment, and film reels all find safe homes underground. While these cool, dry conditions are certainly favorable for these antiques, implementing them is also expensive. Very expensive. Storers also have to travel deep into the earth to retrieve or visit their items.

However, these conditions can easily be recreated in a self storage unit. Use dehydration techniques, or rent a climate controlled unit and keep your valuables at a standard temp year round to help reduce damage. Self storage units are also much more affordable, and can be accessed without the need for a hardhat (unless you’re prone to some questionable stacking measures) or an underground elevator.

To help get the most out of your self storage unit, be sure to check in on what types of conditions will best preserve your belongings. By recreating them and keeping measures constant, items can be kept safe (and valuable) for years to come.

To find more tips about the self storage industry, head to SelfStorageInvesting.com

by Scott Meyers of Self Storage Investing

As the idea of self storage continues to grow both in popularity and practice, more and more facilities are popping up across the country, as well as across the globe. Business owners are seeing a need for consumers to store their belongings, and they’re acting by way of providing such a service. They’re building self storage units is all shapes and sizes, as well as with a variety of amenities. Units can be rented with power, air conditioning, and even with fancy décor, bathrooms, and more, to create an almost home-like setting. While not everyone needs a chandelier or even running water in their self storage unit, it’s true that most individuals and families could benefit from a little extra storage space.

With so many available storage companies, however, it’s important to choose the right one. I’ve shared tips for finding the best fit in the past, but today there are even more incentives to sign with different companies. To help tip the competition in their favor, many storage facilitie are offering upcoming and ongoing contests to new clients. In the market for an iPad? You could win one just by signing up with a certain self storage company. Others are offering discounted rents (sometimes even free), cash prizes, or gift cards at local restaurants for a few lucky winners. Their competition is your gain.

Be sure to check in on these contests, many of which are fueled by social media, before signing up for just any new company. While you shouldn’t make your choice solely based on who has the best prizes, it can certainly help tips the scales in either direction, should you be on the fence.

To find out more about the self storage industry or if you’re interested in becoming one of the prize-givers yourself, head to SelfStorageInvesting.com.

By Scott Meyers of Self Storage Investing

Depending on your location, water damage can cause immense damage to your belongings. Even when a storage unit is sealed tight and all pipes are free from drips or leaks, water damage can still be a serious issue. When living in humid, saturated areas, the moisture still seems to find its way in. No matter how hard we try to keep it out, water is one of those nuisances that always seems to create an entrance. So instead of cutting it off at the source, it’s best to implement counteractive methods along the way.

For example, by absorbing humidity or moisture within a unit, you can greatly reduce the chances of belongings becoming musty or damaged by moisture. Many times it can even be done by spending virtually no money; a great trade considering the ample benefits keeping items dry can provide.

Moisture Absorbing Tips

Dehumidifiers: One of the most obvious fixes is to use a dehumidifier. If your unit has power, this may be a good option. However, it can also be dangerous to leave the machine running unattended for long periods of time. If choosing a dehumidifier, visit your unit often or set up a timer that will turn it off and on frequently.

Coal: There are a lot of odors that can come from moisture or water damage. To help stop these odors before they begin, set out a bowl full of coal and let sit. The coal absorbs these odors and leaves your unit virtually smell-free.

Chemicals: Other moisture-absorbing options include anhydrous calcium chloride tablets or granules, which will pull water from the room’s air. Keep them in a small container that won’t rust or discolor from water damage.

Containers: Finally, a specialty-made set up can pull in moisture from the air. While this may cost a little more, it will be mess-free and prevents you from measuring chemicals. These kits can be purchased at a local department or hardware store and will come with specific instructions.

Leaving your storage unit dry and clean is easier than you think. Just follow these simple steps to help keep all your belongings water-damage free.

To find out more about the self storage industry, or to open up your own, head to SelfStorageInvesting.com.

by Scott Meyers of Self Storage Investing

No matter what may be on the receiving end, no one likes paying bills. Whether for play, for activities, or even for delicious meals, no one really wants a check. Even when money is present and you’re receiving the exact same billed dollar amounts month to month, the actual formality of writing a check or swiping your card takes time, is repetitious, and reminds of us just how inefficient our bill-paying ways have become.

Thankfully, in the world of self storage, there’s no need to pay month by month … unless you want to that is. Facilities will be happy to receive payments in advance, allowing you to provide a one-time payment and life worry-free for months, or even years. Oftentimes renters can even work out a deal with their storage landlords, earning a better rate or a percentage off when paying for multiple months at a time. While it may seem expensive up front, in the long run it will help save cash, as well as time spent paying your rent.

Another option is signing up for automatic withdrawal payments. By linking your bank account (discretely, there’s no info exchange), your storage unit rent can be paid on time, and without your having to put forth effort. Each facility should have this paperwork when signing up, and can help you get the groundwork in place. Facilities will also offer discounts for those who utilize this offer, cutting down on overall rental costs.

When it comes to self storage payment plans, there are different methods that can not only make bill paying easier, but can save cash along the way. Be sure to check with your facility about their payment options and any discounts you may have been missing out in.

To find out more about the self storage industry or if you’re interested in getting started yourself, head to SelfStorageInvesting.com today.

by Scott Meyers of Self Storage Investing

When picking out a self storage unit – whether this is your first time in the game or you’re just moving to a new location – there are several points of reference to keep in mind. Chances are there are more than one option in your area, and finding the one that best suits your needs upfront can save you from a lot of headaches later on. Before you sign up, do your research and check out each company so there are no surprises later on.

One of the first things to check in on is the Better Business Bureau. If a facility scores low, you’ve saved yourself time and added background checks; you can just pick up and walk away. After all, the BBB is in place for the very reason of evaluating companies and making sure they don’t provide inferior services, why not take advantage? A quick visit to bbb.org will allow you to enter your zip code and check out any self storage facility you’re considering doing business with. The website also shows when complaints have been filed, so you can see what companies have had issues in the past.

Next, be sure to get a written quote from units you’re considering – at least two is a safe bet. By asking for prices in writing – including rent, available insurance, and any other expenses that are available – you’re ensuring that the price won’t be changed on signing day.

Finally, meet with and talk to the facility’s manager. If any issue takes place or you need to get it touch with the company, they’ll be the person you are talking to. If they are a friendly, helpful person – which you should expect in this line of business – you can gain peace of mind that said problem will be resolved by someone whom you trust.

Before you sign, be sure to use these simple tips to help find the right self storage facility for your needs.

For more self storage tips, or if you’re interested in getting started in the business, head to SelfStorageInvesting.com.

by Scott Meyers of Self Storage Investing

Reusing items is a growing trend in our country’s mission to reduce waste. Consumers are becoming more conscious about their packaging, they’r working to recycle on a regular basis, and are finding environmentally friendly options for everyday activities. On this list includes moving, driving, and packing breakable items. What once may have taken multiple tanks of gas and an entire sack full of waste can now be done  virtually waste free.

Due to the availability of greener products and easier disposal of items, reducing one’s carbon footprint has become much more efficient.

Where Self Storage Meets Green

Moving, an act traditionally causing ample boxes, tape, and more; has been made much more environmentally friendly with these changes. Most notably, companies are dedicating their entire premise to making recyclable boxes. Whether their boxes are made out of previously used cardboard or can easily be broken down, these businesses are streamlining how boxes are created. Self storage units are filled with re-used boxes, and moves of all sizes help give the landfills a break with this upcoming and responsible trend.

Purchasing these boxes gives consumers peace of mind that they’re helping out the environment, while still providing steady moving options. In fact, recycled box makers in California put their boxes to the test, proving they are every bit as durable and strong as traditional cardboard models. The only difference being what happens to them before and after the move.

For your next move or storing venture, remember to reuse your boxes or to pick up those made with salvaged materials. These items will offer the same sturdy storing abilities for your self storage unit, but without the need for added waste.

For more self storage tips, or if you’re interested in starting a facility of your own, head to SelfStorageInvesting.com.

by Scott Meyers of Self Storage Investing

It’s no secret that adding shelving into a self storage unit can increase its productivity, allowing for more storing space to be available; implementing several levels allows you to store from top to bottom, not just on the available floor space. Using shelves can also making storing a more organized and efficient process, allowing items to be easily located, as well as leaving walking space between boxes.

But to get even more bang for your buck, consider the different types of shelves that are out there. While it’s easy to say “these were on sale” or “I had these collecting dust in the basement,” for your current shelving options, there may be a more practical model. Using metal or wire shelving units are a growing trend in the self storage industry, and it’s not hard to tell why. Metal shelves are sturdy, lightweight, don’t require dusting or cleaning, and can be adjusted to fit any level or space. And because they have slats (as opposed to solid shelves and sides), you can view what’s on each shelf without needing a ladder or step stool.

Compared to competing models, metal shelves are generally the most cost effective as well. Cheaper than lumber, wire models won’t be discarded due to size; just add on or downsize as needed.

Finally, incorporating solid boxes is a great way to utilize your new shelves. Choosing boxes that are similar in size will allow you to store more efficiently, without the worry that boxes will fall or tumble. You can also label each one for easy location and unpacking.

Consider wire or metal shelving options to increase the storing space in your self storage unit today.

To find out more about self storage or if you’re interested in getting started in the business, head to SelfStorageInvesting.com.

by Scott Meyers of Self Storage Investing

With all the hype surrounding self storage units, it’s safe to say that you’ve read several stories praising the industry. Storage units are a cost effective way to store belongings, they are safe, easy to access, and consumers can rent them for as long as they need them. However, with all these benefits that storage units provide, it is also important to use them correctly. Storing an unsafe item can easily endanger others as well as your stint with the rental company … even when not out to cause malicious intent.

Therefore it’s best to stay up on your self storage knowledge, keeping safety in mind. Knowing what items are not recommended for a self storage unit is the best way to keep them from entering your rental unit, even by accident.

Items to Keep at Home

-Anything flammable or combustible. This may sound obvious, but paint cans or varnishes are easily held onto by homeowners or renters – a common source of fires. Businesses also keep gas cans or oils on hand for vehicle or machine maintenance. These items should be kept off site to avoid setting the entire storage facility ablaze – even if the odds are unlikely.

-Perishable items that aren’t regularly accessed. When not circulated, perishable items can easily get lost or broken. This can lead to mildew and mold, and over time can create foul odors or unhealthy spores to those who breathe them in.

-Vehicles that aren’t insured. Even if you have renters insurance, your stored vehicle is licensed differently and has to have its own policy. Not doing so could mean a loss to the owner if anything were to happen to the unit.

-Lastly, self storage units are not proper living spaces. Unless purchasing a high-end unit with running water and safe circulation, choosing to live in a self storage unit could be a serious health hazard.

To find out more about the self storage industry or if you’re interested in starting your own, head to SelfStorageInvesting.com.