Self storage seems simple: rent a unit, put your stuff inside, lock it up. But the difference between a smooth experience and a frustrating one often comes down to planning and knowledge. We’ve seen customers face problems that could have been prevented with a bit of guidance. From security concerns to damaged items, most storage headaches trace back to common mistakes. Let’s look at what can go wrong and how you can get it right.
Not Researching the Facility
Would you rent an apartment without seeing it first? Probably not. Yet people often choose storage facilities based solely on price or location. Start by visiting facilities in person. Check for security cameras that actually work, not just empty housings on walls. Are the grounds well-lit? Does the gate system function properly? Do staff members seem knowledgeable?
Read reviews from current customers. Look for comments about pest problems, water issues, or customer service complaints. One person’s bad experience might be an outlier, but patterns tell you something important. Ask about access hours. Some places advertise 24/7 access but actually have gates that lock overnight. Find out if there are extra fees for after-hours access. These details matter when you need something at an unexpected time.
Not Choosing the Right Size
“I’ll just cram everything in to save money,” said everyone who later regretted their storage choice. Too small means damaged items from improper stacking and frustration when you can’t find what you need. Too large means wasted money month after month.
Bring measurements of your largest items. Sure, that sofa might be 7 feet long, but add cushion width and you might need more space than you thought. Draw a rough floor plan. Map out where large items will go and how much walking space you’ll need. Remember, you want access to everything, not just items at the front. Talk to the manager about real-world capacity. A 10×10 unit holds a one-bedroom apartment’s worth of stuff—if packed well. But do you pack well? Be honest with yourself.
Not Packing Properly
Moving boxes come in different strengths for a reason. That free box from the grocery store might hold lightweight items but will collapse under heavier things. Use boxes of similar sizes for easier stacking. Fill boxes completely to prevent crushing, but don’t make them too heavy to lift safely.
Create clear walking paths in your unit. Imagine needing something from the back in six months. Will you have to unpack half the unit to reach it? Cover upholstered furniture, but skip the plastic wrap. Furniture needs to breathe. Plastic traps moisture and leads to mildew, especially in non-temperature-controlled units. Label boxes on all sides, not just the top. You won’t always see the top when boxes are stacked. Write the contents and which room they belong to for easier unpacking later.
Not Considering Temperature-Controlled Storage
Wood expands and contracts with temperature changes. Electronics hate extreme heat. Photos curl in humidity. Some things just need stable conditions. Regular storage units can reach over 100 degrees in summer and below freezing in winter. That’s fine for many items but devastating for others.
Temperature-controlled units cost more but prevent warped furniture, damaged electronics, and ruined collections. Do you have family heirlooms, musical instruments, or important documents? The extra cost might save irreplaceable items. Many customers learn this lesson too late. We’ve seen people open units to find damaged wooden furniture that would have been fine in temperature-controlled storage.
Not Insuring Belongings
“It won’t happen to me” is what everyone thinks until it does. Fire, flood, theft—emergencies don’t announce themselves ahead of time. Most storage contracts specifically state that the facility isn’t responsible for your belongings. Read the fine print before signing.
Check your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance first. Many policies offer some coverage for items in storage, but limits and exclusions apply. Take photos of valuable items before storing them. Create a simple inventory list with estimated values. This documentation helps if you ever need to file a claim. The monthly cost of insurance is tiny compared to replacing everything you’ve stored. Think of it as buying peace of mind.
Not Visiting the Unit Regularly
Storage units aren’t magical preservation chambers. Problems can develop over time if no one checks on things. Small leaks get worse. Pest problems grow. Items shift and fall. The longer these issues go unnoticed, the more damage they cause.
Set a calendar reminder to visit every few months. Walk around your unit, move a few boxes, look for any signs of trouble. These regular visits also help you reassess what you’re storing. Do you still need everything? Could you downsize to a smaller unit?
Final Thoughts
Small mistakes in self storage can lead to big problems. The good news? A little planning prevents most issues. Research facilities thoroughly. Choose the right size for your needs. Pack properly with quality materials. Consider temperature control for sensitive items. Insure your belongings. Check on your unit regularly.
Greylock Storage offers secure units in Pittsfield, Adams, Schenectady, and Glens Falls. Our staff can help you avoid these common mistakes and find storage that works for your specific situation. Need help choosing between self storage and portable storage? Our Go Mini units bring storage to your doorstep for convenient loading.
Contact us today to learn more about our self storage options and how we can help meet your storage needs.
