Pack and Store

Choosing The Right Self-Storage For You!

2012-02-14T14:47:00.000-08:00

Self-storage is an incredibly large market, and can be overwhelming for people who are new to the industry. While the idea of storage can seem quite simple and straight-forward at first, there are many things to consider once you have decided that you want to store your goods. I have put together a breakdown of the options out there, and the things to keep in mind, in order to help you make the decision that best suits your needs.

1) Outdoor Storage:
While outdoor storage can often be seen in a bit of a negative light, it is definitely one of the best options for those who are struggling with overall costs. Because the units are outdoors, you would definitely have to be very careful about what you store in them. If you live somewhere where the temperatures can get low, it is probably not wise to store items such as antique furniture and pricey artwork in a unit like this. With that being said, sometimes the items that people need storage for don't require special care, and to pay extra money for an indoor or climate controlled space may seem like a waste. If you're just looking to store overflow from your garage, or garden shed, these types of units are pefect. Access is usually pretty easy, since you aren't driving into a building, and you can come and go on your own terms.

2) Indoor Storage and Climate Controlled Units
While these types of units are often a higher cost, they are definitely a good idea if you're worried about the condition of the goods you are storing. Many facilities are now offering climate controlled units, which means your goods are stored at room temperature and are not susceptible to the issues that can arise from extreme temperatures (cracking or warping in the cold, developing mould and mildew or melting in heat). There are even some facilities that offer drive-up capabilities, which means you can drive your car right into the building (and in some cases, right up to your unit).

3) Portable Storage
One of the fastest growing types of self-storage is the portable storage (also known as “mobile” storage) service. Unlike the other types of self-storage, you don’t have to worry about any transportation when choosing a portable storage service. It pairs the convenience of self-storage, with the added bonus of being able to load your unit up right on your very own property. Most companies allow you to make the choice of either storing your container on your property the entire time, or having them brought back to a storage facility for as long as you need it stored. While it is a new concept to many people, portable storage units usually have many of the same benefits of the indoor self-storage units, and they are usually even stored in climate controlled facilities as well. Since you aren’t required to do any of actual moving or transporting of the containers, this service gives you the extra time and brain power to focus on your move or home renovation.

No matter which option fits best, it is always smart to shop around before making any decisions. Make sure to ask lots of questions. The attitude and helpfulness of the staff, whether over the phone or in person, is always a good indicator of the quality of the facility you’re looking at. Treat it is a type of interview. Most places will even offer you a tour of the facility, so you can see exactly what you would be signing up for.

Storage Wars

2012-01-27T11:54:00.000-08:00

With the recent rise in popularity of public auction themed reality shows, we have in turn seen a rise in popularity of our public auctions at Pack and Store. Anyone familiar with the self-storage industry is aware that public auctions are par for the course, unfortunately. If you don't pay your monthly rent, your goods are sold. It's as simple as that. While the contents of the units auctioned can range anywhere from complete junk to hidden treasures, we're welcoming more and more bidders to our facility as time goes by.

There is lots of debate as to whether or not these reality tv shows correctly portray what goes on at one of these auctions. If you were to purely base your opinions on these programs, you would probably expect that each and every unit contains something worthwhile. I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but sometimes this just isn't the case. I have included a link belowe which will lead you to an article from storageauctionskings.com. This article will help give each of you some further insight into these reality shows, and give you a better idea of the difference between these reality television shows, and just plain old "reality". Please have a read, and drop us a line with any questions or comments you may have. Alternatively, Pack and Store is holding our next public auction on Saturday, February 4th. If you want to skip the reading, why don't you drop by and see what's it all about for yourself?!

http://www.storageauctionskings.com/storageauctionstipsandtricks/is-storage-wars-fake-staged-or-for-real/1033

Home Renovation Guide

2012-01-10T14:14:00.000-08:00

We were recently feature on the website Homerenovationguide.com!

Pack and Store is an EXCELLENT option for home renovations, since you have the choice of having the container stored on your property the entire time (an excellent option for people who need access to the contents of their unit(s) on a daily basis), or having them brought back to our facility for the duration of your storage term. Once the containers have been brought back to our facility, you are still able to access the contents (free of charge) whenever you want to. All you would need to do is give us 24-48 hours notice, and we can set up an appointment for you to get into your unit.

Pack and Store containers help you to get everything out of your home in time for the renovation, and you would then have all your goods delivered back to you to unpack and enjoy in your newly renovated home, condo or apartment!

You can check out the post at:
http://www.homerenovationguide.com/professionals/pack-and-store

Check out our Youtube video!

2011-11-01T11:03:00.000-07:00

To give you a better idea of how our mobile storage services work, we have Youtube channel with some videos that give you an idea of what a typical day looks like for Pack and Store! Please note the convenient size of our containers (5 x 8 x 7), which help us service even the most remote areas in the downtown core. Also, we can fit up to 5 containers on our truck at once, which means you aren't limited to just taking one at a time. This helps to make your move even more efficient.

Follow the link below, and have a look for yourself!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j9_Bb2fI-pk

Decluttering Can Be Bad For Your Health!

2011-10-12T12:09:00.000-07:00

We recently came across the following article on a blog devoted to organization(organizing.yourway.net), which outlines the benefits to both the body and mind when you take the time to declutter. Yet another reason to get a mobile storage unit and finally clear up some space :)

http://www.realage.com/health-tips/the-health-benefits-of-decluttering

Packing Tips

2011-09-21T13:57:00.000-07:00

It's very important to make sure that you pack your container in the most efficient way in order to save you money, time and energy. You would be surprised at how much can fit into one of our containers! Here are some packing tips, to make your move even easier!

Preparing to Pack

Depending on what you plan to store, you may need corrugated boxes, ‘easy crates,’ wrapping paper, bubble wrap, wardrobe boxes, mirror boxes, covers for furniture and mattresses, and special boxes for breakables (glass packs, dish packs, etc.). You will need quality sealing tape (masking or cellophane tape are not strong enough), a marker for labeling contents, and a sheet of paper for listing inventory and location. Free box (room identification) labels are available from Pack and Store™.
Pack and Store™ offers a large selection of all the above. Please call for delivery details.
Pack and Store™ offers room labels for boxes free of charge!

Packing

DO NOT STORE FOOD.
Disassemble furniture if possible and cover with padding.
Pack books and papers in small boxes to control weight.
Use properly sized boxes to make moving easier.
Protect items with paper or padding material.
Fill boxes completely to reduce shifting in transit.
Pack breakables in dish-pack or glassware boxes for greatest protection. Wrap each piece separately. If packing breakables in regular boxes, stack dishes on their sides and glassware upright. Place heavy items at the bottom of boxes holding breakables.
Wrap mirrors and pictures in clean paper and pack into mirror boxes. Do not lay flat.
Pack clothing in wardrobe boxes if possible.
Thoroughly clean and drain appliances before storing. Tape down moving parts. When storing a refrigerator or freezer, sprinkle baking soda over flat surfaces and leave the door ajar.
When storing tools and bicycles, clean and wipe lightly with oil for added rust protection. Cover with plastic or paper pads to protect other items from staining.
Securely close all boxes and label with contents.

Filling your Pack and Store™ Container

DO NOT STORE FOOD.
Load heavy items at the bottom with smaller items on top.
Place items you may need in front of the container.
Distribute weight evenly in the container.
Store large or bulky items at the center of the container.
Most sofas can be stood on end to make the best use of space. Use a cover.
Mattresses and box springs should be stored in protective bags.
Do not load more than 3,000 pounds in your Pack and Store™ container. note that household goods will not exceed the weight limit. if you are packing a large number of books and/or papers, please speak to one of the staff.
List stored items, with location, in the inventory list. Update as items are removed or added.

Safety Precautions

DO NOT STORE FOOD.
When lifting heavy boxes, bend at the knees instead of waist, grip box firmly and hold it close to your body.
Do not store flammables, or hazardous materials.
Do not remove cover from container.
Do not let children or animals play in, on or around container.
When not packing, lock the door with your padlock and close the weather-resistant cover