Here at Iron Forge Storage, we understand that you might be wondering how safe your belongings really are when they’re kept in a storage facility. While we take pride in the safety and security of our units, it is a team effort to protect the items you care about. We’ve put together 8 Do’s and Don’ts to bring you peace of mind while you store with us:

1. DO organize and make note of what will be stored. Knowing what is in your storage unit and having items clearly marked will greatly benefit you when belongings need to be retrieved or organized.  Documenting your belongings with a photo or written list is also helpful if items need to be sold and posted to an online marketplace.  This will also help if any damage to items is discovered, having information to submit for insurance purposes is a plus and can make the claim submission process go more smoothly.  Talk to your insurance agent about appropriate coverage and their policy of safely storing belongings to avoid potential hurdles.
2. DO use detachable shelves to stack boxes and smaller items. Utilizing shelves to store boxes, containers and smaller household items not only maximizes your use of space, but also helps you visualize and organize your belongings for easy retrieval.  Evenly dispersing items helps generate more airflow which aids against possible mold and mildew issues for long term storage.  Many items can be stored safely and securely using these simple practices, saving you money from unnecessary higher cost climate-controlled units.
3. DO keep your unit locked at all times. Keeping your unit locked with a stainless-steel disk lock will keep your belongings more secure since they are much more effective against tampering due to their closed shackle design.  Also, its unique key-retaining feature ensures the padlock was not left unlocked.  Before placing the lock on your unit, be sure to double check that the sliding latch on the door for the deadbolt is engaged.
4. DO limit the number of people who have access to your unit. Two copies of keys are given to you with your lock. But to keep it secure, it’s important to limit the number of people who you trust to access your storage unit.  Always inform the office of the people you have authorized to access your storage unit or for us to speak to about your account details.
5. DO take pictures of your unit before moving in. If you’ve paid for a security deposit, make note or inform our office of any damage or significant imperfections to the walls or floors of your unit.  This will ensure there are no unexpected charges due to damage upon your move out and will help in getting your security deposit back when the unit is checked for the next tenant.
6. DO NOT store any food items or items that may rust or leak fluid like oil or fuel. Storing food in your storage unit is prohibited and attracts pests which can cause great damage to not only your belongings but to the structure as well as the units around yours.  Also, avoid storing any equipment that may rust or leak fluids such as oil or fuel as this type of damage can be permanent and costly to our facility.  Securing the floor with a tarp or cardboard underneath any potential equipment that has not been winterized will help eliminate costly fees and damage that will be charged to the tenants accordingly.
7. DO NOT move items in or out of your storage unit during wet weather if possible. Moving items into or out of your storage unit during rain or snow tracks unwanted water into your unit which will eventually dissipate moisture into the air in and around your belongings.  This can potentially cause mold/mildew issues over time and damage to your stored belongings.  Keeping your unit as dry as possible is important and ensures your belongings stay safe.  Moisture absorption packets are not necessary, but certainly may be useful in and around very sensitive items such as documents, photographs or books.
8. DO NOT tightly wrap furniture and other items that need to breathe in plastic. This can trap moisture in as temperatures cool and heat and cause unwanted mold or mildew.  Instead, use old sheets or cloths to cover upholstered items such as antiques, art and wooden instruments.

Securing your items in a storage unit is a simple and effective way to transition from place to place, to clear clutter and to keep overflow from filling your home or workspace. By following the tips above, you’ll find that the process is smooth and that your valuables are kept safe a secure. Reach out to Iron Forge Storage with any questions you may have!