Storage Hacks: 10 Important Tips When Living Alone for the First Time

Living alone for the first time is exhilarating and a tad nerve-wracking. It is your space, so you set the rules, but you must also plan every meal and keep the place clean all by yourself. With a little planning and practicality, you will make solo living a dream come true.

Here is how to navigate this new chapter with confidence.

1. Budget Like a Pro

Living alone means you are in charge of your finances, so you need a budget. First, record your monthly income and set aside 10% for a rainy day. Then, add up fixed expenses like rent, utilities, and insurance. From there, allocate a reasonable amount for groceries, transportation, and entertainment. You can tackle your spending with fancy budgeting apps or a simple spreadsheet—just be sure to adjust it as needed.

2. Keep a Spare Key on Hand

Nothing kills the excitement of living alone faster than locking yourself out. Avoid this fate by making a copy of your house key and keeping it safe. You can ask a trusted friend, family member, or neighbor to hold onto the spare or hide it in a secure location. Keyless entry systems or smart locks are another great investment if you are prone to misplacing things.

3. Keep Things Tidy

With no one around to complain about the mess, it is tempting to let dishes pile up. But keeping your space clean makes it more enjoyable to live in, not to mention easier to maintain. Set a simple cleaning routine, like tidying up for 10 minutes a day or dedicating one day a week to deep cleaning. If things are a bit too crowded, consider renting a self-storage unit to free up some space.

4. Master the Art of Cooking for One

Surviving on takeout and instant noodles is fun at first, but your wallet and health will thank you for learning to cook. Start with simple recipes, like stir-fry, pasta dishes, and one-pan meals. To save time and money, try meal prepping, which involves cooking in large batches and freezing portions for easy meals later.

5. Embrace the Solitude, but Stay Social

Living alone means a lot of quiet moments. It might feel weird at first, but it is an opportunity to focus on yourself. Whether you enjoy reading, binge-watching your favorite shows, or dancing in your pajamas, take advantage of having space to do whatever makes you happy. Of course, do not resort to isolating yourself. Regularly hang out with friends, call family members, or join a local club to maintain a healthy social life.

6. Get to Know Your Neighbors

Introduce yourself to your neighbors when you move in, even if it is just a simple hello. Knowing your neighbors comes in handy when you need to borrow an egg, have someone accept a package, or water your plants while you are out of town. Who knows—you might even develop a lasting friendship.

7. Stock Up on Essentials

There is nothing worse than realizing you are out of toilet paper at midnight. Avoid the panic by keeping basic household supplies stocked. This means adding things to your shopping list before they run out completely.

8. Prioritize Safety

Make a habit of locking the doors and windows whether you are at home or away and consider installing a video doorbell. If you live in an apartment, get familiar with the building’s security measures and escape routes. In case of an emergency, keep contact information for local emergency services, a trusted neighbor, and a dependable friend or family member on hand.

9. Manage Maintenance

When something breaks, there is no roommate to call for help—it is on you now. Learn a few basic home repairs, like unclogging a drain, plunging a toilet, and resetting a tripped breaker. Stock a basic tool kit with essentials like a hammer, screwdriver, and duct tape. As for the bigger stuff, make sure you have your landlord’s number or a handyman you can call.

10. Make Moving Easier with Packing and Moving Services

Living on your own is exciting, but have you thought about how you will get there? Save time and stress by hiring a professional packing and moving company to manage the heavy lifting. You might also benefit from putting things in storage temporarily while you figure out your living situation.

How Independence Storage Simplifies Your Move

Are you moving into your first solo home soon? If you need extra space, turn to Independence Storage. We provide clean, secure storage units to make your transition go smoothly. Our ground-level drive-up units are easily accessible, and our affordable pricing packages deliver what you need without unnecessary costs. We place no limits on your time with us, so rent your unit for as short or as long as you need—we will prorate any unused rent after the first month. Check out our facility in Mountain View, CA, or reserve a unit online today!

Storage Hacks: Tips to Declutter and Organize Your Home

Are you tired of tripping over toys in the living room or rummaging through cluttered kitchen cabinets? Whether you are preparing to move or simply refreshing your space, an organized home makes life easier. With a few smart storage hacks, you can transform chaos into calm. All you need to do is tackle the clutter one room at a time.

Check below Storage Tips for your Home:

Prepare to Declutter

Before jumping in, set yourself up for success with these simple tips:

• Identify the areas in your home that need the most attention and set achievable goals to avoid becoming overwhelmed.
• Remove everything from a space before reorganizing. Create three piles as you go—keep, sell/donate, and store. A storage unit could be ideal for keepsakes or valuables you want to hold onto but don’t have room for at home.
• Measure shelves, drawers, and cabinets before buying storage solutions to ensure a good fit.
• Choose storage options that suit your needs and lifestyle. Options include stackable bins, drawer dividers, fabric totes, over-the-door organizers, and much more.

Once you have completed these steps, you are ready to tackle each room with confidence.

Organize the Kitchen

A well-organized kitchen makes cooking more enjoyable. The key is to keep essentials accessible while reducing clutter:

• Transfer pantry staples like flour, sugar, cereal, and pasta into clear, labeled containers. This keeps food fresh longer and makes it easier to see what you have.
• Install shelves, hanging racks, or pegboards to store pots, pans, and utensils.
• Store spices, cutting boards, or plastic wrap in cabinet door organizers.
• Arrange related items together to keep everything within easy reach. Stackable shelf risers maximize cabinet space, while lazy Susans make hard-to-reach corners more accessible.

Make the Living Room More Relaxing

Your living room should be a place to unwind. If clutter has taken over, tidy up with these tips:

• Clear off the coffee table, TV stand, and bookshelves. Place decorative boxes or baskets on them to store remote controls, magazines, and accessories.
• Choose multi-purpose furniture like storage ottomans, coffee tables with drawers, and end tables with shelves to hide clutter.

Boost Bathroom Storage

Bathrooms tend to accumulate clutter quickly, so smart storage solutions are essential:

• Assess the medicine cabinet and toss any expired meds or beauty products.
• Store everyday essentials in labeled bins under the sink so you can find them easily.
• Add shower storage with a hanging shower caddy or corner shelves.
• Install towel hooks or racks to keep them off the floor.
• Store extra toiletries in over-the-door organizers.

Declutter the Bedroom

A cluttered bedroom makes it hard to sleep well. Here is how to maximize storage while keeping things cozy:

• Sort your clothes by category and be honest about what you actually wear. If you have not worn something in a year, donate it.
• Use under-bed storage to hold seasonal clothes, shoes, or extra linens.
• Simplify the nightstand, removing everything except the essentials like a lamp, a book, and your phone charger.

Rearrange the Home Office

A clutter-free workspace boosts productivity and reduces stress. Here is how to organize your home office.

• Declutter your desk. Place everything besides your laptop, a notebook, and a few pens in drawers or labeled bins.
• Manage cords and cables with cable clips, zip ties, or a cord organizer.
• Implement a paper filing system using labeled folders or a filing cabinet. If possible, go digital to reduce paper clutter.

Get the Garage in Order

Garages are a catch-all for everything from holiday decorations to sporting equipment. A little organization goes a long way:

• Install pegboards, hooks, or shelving units to keep tools, bikes, and gardening supplies off the floor.
• Choose clear, labeled bins for seasonal decorations, camping gear, and miscellaneous items to easily see what’s inside.
• Store like items together so it’s easier to find what you need without sifting through piles of stuff.

Increase Functionality in the Laundry Room

An organized laundry room makes this chore a little less tedious:

• Use separate hampers for whites, colors, and delicate to make laundry day more efficient.
• Create a folding station at a small table or wall-mounted drop-down shelf to fold clothes right out of the dryer.
• Store detergent, stain remover, and dryer sheets on open shelves or in labeled bins. If space is tight, try a rolling cart stored near your washer and dryer.

Simplify with Independence Storage

At Independence Storage in Mountain View, CA, we know that decluttering can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re downsizing, moving, or simply making more space in your current home, our clean, secure, and accessible storage units fit your needs. We offer short- and long-term storage with flexible options and no minimum stay required. Every unit is at ground level for easy drive-up access, and we keep everything in top condition. Take the stress out of decluttering—reserve a storage unit today or contact us to learn more.

The Best Move-in Checklist for Couples

Moving in together is a thrilling milestone in any relationship. It is the start of a new chapter filled with shared experiences, late-night talks—and debates over the correct way to load the dishwasher. To make this transition as smooth as possible, we have compiled this move-in checklist for couples. Use it to help you organize the logistics of the move and communicate openly with your partner about this big life change.

Move In Checklists for Couples to Focus:

1. Talk About Finances

2. Money can be a touchy subject, but discussing finances upfront is crucial when moving in together. Start by creating a joint budget that outlines income, expenses, and saving goals. Decide how you will split expenses, whether that’s 50/50 or proportional to income. Then, set up a joint emergency fund as a safety net for unexpected expenses.

3. Decide Where to Live

The goal is to find a space that feels like home for both of you. The first decision is whether you’ll move into one partner’s current residence or start fresh in a new place. Location matters, too—factor in commute times and proximity to family and friends. Also, discuss what you find important in a neighborhood, whether it’s walkability, safety, or nearby restaurants and parks.

4. Declutter

Combining two households means double the stuff, which makes decluttering a must. Take inventory of what each of you owns especially large items like furniture and appliances. Do you really need two toasters or three sets of measuring cups? As you declutter, sort your belongings into three categories: keep, sell/donate, or store. If you have items you’re not ready to part with but don’t have space for, a storage unit is the perfect solution.

5. Plan the Big Move

Moving day can be stressful, so plan ahead. Consider hiring packing and moving services to handle the heavy lifting, especially if you have a lot of furniture or fragile items. Pack strategically by labeling boxes clearly and grouping items by room. Do not forget to pack an essentials box with the necessities you’ll need right away, like toiletries, a change of clothes, and basic kitchen supplies.

6. Merge Your Styles

Moving in together requires agreeing, or at least compromising, on home decor decisions. If one of you loves modern minimalism and the other prefers rustic cabin vibes, you have got some work to do. Discuss your preferences to see where your tastes overlap. Shop for furniture and decor together and bring home pieces that reflect both of you. If certain beloved items do not fit the new aesthetic, get creative—maybe that quirky chair can go in a reading nook instead of the living room.

7. Divide Household Chores

Cleaning the bathroom isn’t glamorous, but someone has to do it. Before resentment builds over dirty dishes, create a chore plan that works for both of you. Some couples prefer a rotating schedule, while others divide tasks based on personal strengths. If you love cooking and your partner does not mind washing dishes, that’s a natural fit.

8. Establish House Rules

Every household runs on unspoken rules—why not talk about them to nip disagreements in the bud? Discuss guest policies, including how often you are comfortable having visitors over. If one of you is an early bird and the other is a night owl, set quiet hours to make sure you are both getting the rest you need. Also, be open about pet peeves. From leaving shoes by the door to never replacing the toilet paper, getting the little things out in the open prevents arguments later.

9. Discuss Future Plans

While it’s great to live in the moment, knowing what you each envision for the future ensures you’re on the same page. Talk about career aspirations and whether relocating for work could ever happen. If marriage, kids, or pets are in the cards, have those conversations sooner rather than later. Even if you’re just renting for now, discuss whether you see this as a short- or long-term living arrangement.

10. Celebrate Your New Home

After all the planning, packing, and moving, take time to enjoy your new space together. Plan a fun date night or pop a bottle of champagne at home to celebrate the milestone. If you’re feeling social, throw a housewarming party to invite friends and family into your new home. Most importantly, make it your own—decorate, start traditions, and settle into this exciting chapter together.

How Independence Storage Can Help

With this move-in checklist for your new home in mind, you may be ready to rent a storage unit. Independence Storage has clean, secure self-storage units conveniently located in Mountain View, CA. All our units are at ground level with drive-up options for easy access. Plus, affordable rates and customizable billing provide the flexibility you need. Reserve a unit online or visit us today to see our facility in person.

5 Biggest Moving and Packing Mistakes

Moving to a new home is exciting, but it can also be a real headache. Between the endless to-do lists and last-minute packing chaos, things can spiral out of control fast. Knowing about a few common pitfalls can save you time and stress. Tackle the move yourself or hiring a packing and moving company.

Here are the five biggest mistakes to avoid:

1. Procrastinating on Packing

It is easy to put off packing. You think, “I will just do it the weekend before the move. How hard could it be?” But come moving day, you are knee-deep in a sea of random, unorganized belongings, kicking yourself for not starting sooner.

Here is how to avoid this packing blunder:

• Start early: Begin packing non-essential items at least three to four weeks in advance.
• Go room by room: Focus on one space at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
• Set daily packing goals: Small tasks each day keep you on track without burning you out.
• Declutter as you go: Donate, sell, or toss items you no longer need. The fewer things you pack, the easier your move will be.

If packing still overwhelms you, consider using professional packing services for moving. Experts can box up your belongings quickly and efficiently, freeing up time to focus on other aspects of your move.

2. Skimping on Quality Packing Materials

You grab a stack of free boxes from the grocery store and some old tape from the junk drawer and call it good. What could go wrong? Plenty. Weak boxes can break under pressure, especially if sealed with a single layer of cheap tape. Plus, fragile items are more likely to break without proper padding.

For the best results, invest in good-quality packing materials. A little extra spending upfront can prevent costly damage later. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Sturdy boxes: Double-walled cardboard boxes hold up better.
• Heavy-duty packing tape: Don’t rely on weak tape that barely sticks. Use four individual lines of strong packing tape to seal your boxes properly.
• Cushioning materials: Bubble wrap, packing paper, and foam peanuts protect fragile items.
• Plastic wrap: This is great for securing dresser drawers, keeping furniture dust-free, and bundling loose items together.

For added convenience, many packing and moving services sell packing supplies. Be sure to ask when scheduling your move date.

3. Not Labeling Boxes Clearly

It’s a month before your move, and you’ve already started packing with high-quality boxes and tape. You’re doing great! Now, just make sure you label your boxes as you go. Otherwise, you’ll get to your new home with a mountain of identical-looking boxes to sift through.

Try these labeling tips:

• Write key details on each box: Instead of just “kitchen” or “bathroom,” write “Kitchen – Pots and Pans” or “Bathroom – Towels and Rugs.”
• Label three sides: Use a bold marker and write on multiple sides of the box.
• Mark your breakables: Clearly label fragile boxes so movers know to handle them with care.
• Use a color-coded system: For added efficiency, assign a color to each room and use matching stickers or markers. This prevents you from having to write the room name every time.

If you hire professionals to help with packing and moving, make sure box labeling is included as part of their package.

4. Overpacking Boxes

It’s tempting to cram as much as possible into each box to reduce the number of trips. However, an overloaded box can easily become too heavy to carry, increasing the risk of injury or the bottom breaking open mid-move.

To keep boxes at a manageable weight, remember these tips:

• Use small boxes for heavy items: Reserve small boxes for books, dishes, and canned goods.
• Stick to a 50-pound limit per box: If you can’t lift it comfortably, it’s too heavy.
• Distribute weight wisely: Place heavier items at the bottom of the box. If there’s still room, stuff lightweight towels or bedding on top.

If heavy lifting isn’t your thing, consider investing in packing and loading services for moving, so you don’t have to lift a finger.

5. Forgetting an Essentials Box

You arrive at your new home, happy but exhausted, only to realize your toothbrush, phone charger, and pajamas are somewhere in the mountain of boxes. That’s not exactly the smoothest way to start your first night.

The trick to avoiding this scenario is to pack an essentials box with everything you’ll need for the first 24 to 48 hours. Here’s what to include:

• Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, and toilet paper
• Clothing: A change of clothes and pajamas
• Electronics: Phone charger, laptop, and power strip
• Kitchen basics: Snacks, paper plates, plastic cutlery, and water bottles
• Important documents: IDs, lease or mortgage papers, cash, and moving company contracts

Independence Storage Makes Moving Easier

Moving is complicated enough without worrying about where to store your stuff. Independence Storage simplifies the process with secure, convenient, and affordable self-storage solutions in Mountain View, CA. Whether you need short-term storage during your move or a long-term solution, we’re here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our self-storage services, or reserve your unit today.

Strategies for Safely Packing Your Fragile Mirrors & Artwork

Packing Tips from Independence Storage in Mountain View, CA

Packing up your belongings to move them into storage requires time and effort. Independence Storage wants to make sure you pack your fragile mirrors and artwork safely. We offer self-storage units that are safe and affordable in Mountain View, CA. Whether you’re in between homes or don’t have enough room to keep your belongings, our storage units are the perfect solution. Read on to learn more about how to pack your fragile mirrors and artwork so you can store them at our secure facility. Contact us if you have any questions or are ready to get started by selecting your storage unit.

Safe Strategies for Packing Mirrors & Artwork

Before you load up your storage unit, you’ll want to make sure that your fragile possessions are packed correctly. If you leave your mirrors and artwork in a precarious packing situation, they might become damaged during your move into a self-storage unit. There’s no need to be nervous as long as you choose quality boxes that are specifically designed for moving these objects. These boxes are generally tall and long with the aim of eliminating jostling inside, so the items are packed tightly together. You can pack several frames and mirrors in the same box as long as you’re careful.

Before you start working, have a large, flat surface to work on. Put packing paper in the bottom of the box you’ll be using. Place the object to be packed on the center of the table and wrap bubble wrap over the item and secure it with tape. Use two sheets of bubble wrap for particularly fragile items. Add wadded-up newspaper on the sides and top of the box to prevent any jostling. Close the ends of the box and apply a generous amount of tape. Mark the box as “pictures” or “mirrors” as well as “fragile.” Here are additional tips to ensure the safety of your fragile mirrors and artwork:

• 1. Purchase the right type of boxes. There are specially-made boxes sized for mirrors and artwork.
• 2. Make sure the bottom, sides, and top of each box have cushioning.
• 3. Wrap your mirror or artwork in bubble wrap or packing paper. Be sure that the packing material is safe to use with the artwork.
• 4. Label the box and mark it as fragile. Do not forget to add it to your storage unit inventory list.
• 5. Look for high-quality storage units that offer climate control. This can help protect stored artwork.

Packing Your Mirrors & Artwork for Storage

Your mirrors and artwork are extremely fragile. Before you put these items into storage, you’ll want to pack them the right way to keep them safe. There are boxes made specifically for large mirrors and artwork, but you’ll need to do some prep work to your items before you place them into those boxes. Be sure to wrap bubble wrap around your mirrors and artwork and then tape around the item to keep the bubble wrap in place. Line the bottom of your boxes with packing paper to create a cushion. Place your mirror or framed artwork inside your box and fill in space around the item with additional packing paper.

Why Should You Use Self-Storage?

There are many reasons that you may want to take advantage of self-storage to store your mirrors or artwork. Sometimes you have an old piece of art that you don’t have room to display, but you don’t want to get rid of it. Other times, you may be in-between homes. Either way, relocating these items to a secure storage facility is often your best option. You can access your items whenever you like, and you can rest easy knowing that they’re located in a safe, secure, and dry facility. You might not look forward to packing up your mirrors or artwork, but taking the time to do so correctly can prevent them from being damaged in the move. There are many things that can go wrong during a move, but planning ahead and taking the proper precautions will make the process smooth and help you get everything to your storage unit in one piece.

Choose Independence Storage for Your Fragile Items

Just as it’s essential to pack your mirrors and artwork properly, it’s equally important to choose the right self-storage facility. Renting a storage unit is a convenient and affordable solution to storing your belongings for the long- or short-term. When you’re looking for a storage unit in Mountain View, CA, look no further than Independence Storage. Each of our storage units is on the ground-level with ten-foot-high ceilings. We provide excellent security and customizable billing for all of our customers. Visit us to take a tour of our storage facility or contact us to reserve your storage unit today.

Tips for Taping Moving Boxes for Storage

Taping Boxes for Storage for Your Move in Mountain View, CA

You can pack your boxes perfectly, but not taping them correctly can make your move a disaster. Independence Storage wants to provide you with tips for taping your moving boxes and transporting them to a self-storage unit. Learning some useful strategies for taping and packing your boxes can make your move easier and ensure everything gets into storage safely and securely. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions or need more information on our storage facility in Mountain View, CA.

Taping Your Boxes for Storage 101

When you’re packing up boxes to put in your storage unit rental, you should know the correct way to form sturdy boxes. You’ve spent time and money packing your self-storage unit, so you should spend that little bit of extra time to ensure your boxes are taped correctly. There’s more to taping up a box correctly than just slapping a piece of tape on it. For the best method, use four individual lines of tape to secure your box for the storage unit. Each piece of tape supports the bottom of the box, so your personal possessions are protected. After that, you’ll need to stack your boxes correctly and safely. Use a tape dispenser to save time and frustration. Our team can help you locate all of the supplies you will need for moving your belongings into storage so you can complete your moving process quickly and easily. The following steps tell you exactly how to tape your boxes for storage:

1. 1. Lift your box up and tuck down the sides
2. 2. Fold-down all the flaps at the bottom of your box, which is now upside down
3. 3. Use a generously sized piece of tape running down the middle of the box where the flaps meet and extend down on each side
4. 4. Push each piece of tape close to the surface
5. 5. Use another piece of tape perpendicular to the first piece
6. 6. Use two more pieces of tape to form an X from corner to corner
7. 7. After packing your boxes, tuck in the top and push for a nice, tight seal in the middle
8. 8. Tape straight down the center where the flaps meet as you did for the bottom
9. 9. Use two parallel pieces of tape to fully secure your box

Tips for Packing & Taping Boxes for Your Storage Unit

Not all tape is created equal. Be sure you use packaging tape instead of scotch or masking tape for your boxes. Once you get all your boxes taped up safely, you need a storage facility to keep them secure. Packing your boxes securely may be a bit tedious, but it can make the difference between getting your items into storage without damaging them and having a nightmarish moving situation. Check out the following tips for packing boxes for your storage unit:

• Using the Right Boxes – It may sound backward, but heavy items should be packed in small boxes, while light items should be placed in larger ones. Large boxes full of heavy items are difficult to move and are more likely to break during transport.
• Packing Heavy to Light – Place heavier items at the bottom of your boxes and lighter items on top. This prevents lighter, fragile items from breaking and increases stability. Do the same thing when placing boxes in your storage unit, with heavy boxes on the bottom and lighter ones on top of them.
• Filling in Empty Spaces – Too much empty space in a box allows items to shift around and potentially break. Fill in gaps with items such as towels, clothing, or packing paper.
• Labeling and Taping Boxes Well – Label each of your boxes with its contents and the room of your home it belongs in. Use the color-coding strategy in the next section to make things even easier on yourself.

Color Coding Your Storage Boxes Saves You Time

Color coding your boxes can make it easier to find and retrieve them from your self-storage unit in the future. Feel free to get creative because you can use any color-coding system that makes sense to you or strikes your fancy. Just be sure to write down your color-coding system to make sure you remember it later! Taping pieces of colored paper or colored Post-it® notes can represent specific rooms or types of items so you can keep these groups of boxes together and easily find them later.

Storing Your Belongings Securely at Independence Storage

Packing and organizing your boxes is just one key aspect of moving. Another is choosing the best self-storage facility in Mountain View, CA. Independence Storage specializes in excellent customer service, customer-friendly features, and safety and security measures. Each of our storage units is ground-level and has a ten-foot-high ceiling. We have on-site managers to answer your questions and get you the help you need. We encourage you to take a tour of our storage facility and ask us any questions you have about packing your belongings. Contact our team today to reserve your storage unit.

Self-Storage Insurance Information from Independence Storage

Why You Should Insure Stored Items in Mountain View, CA

Most of us have homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, which covers the belongings in our home. For the same reasons, it makes sense to have insurance for your items in storage in Mountain View, CA. Independence Storage goes above and beyond to be the most secure and convenient self-storage facility in the area. We want to ensure you have all the information you need when it comes to self-storage insurance. With health insurance, auto insurance, and homeowner’s insurance, it may seem like you don’t need another form of insurance to deal with. Find out if storage insurance is important and whether you should bother with it. Contact our team today to learn more about how we can help you.

Do You Need Self-Storage Insurance?

Self-storage units are a great place to store items that you don’t have room for at home. They’re also perfect for temporary storage if you’re in between moves or have kids away at college. No matter what your reason for renting a self-storage unit is, you may have one lingering question: do you need self-storage insurance? Many people who visit a storage facility for the first time may not be familiar with whether or not they should take out additional insurance for their storage unit. In many cases, your existing homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy already includes items you keep in a storage unit rental. It’s important to check your policy to make sure you’re covered. If you aren’t covered or simply don’t have insurance, ask the storage facility for more information. Another vital thing to do is to find a storage facility that offers additional security like Independence Storage.

Insurance Tips for First-Time Storage Renters

If you’re struggling to find enough space in your home for all of your belongings, you may want to consider renting a storage unit. A self-storage is an excellent option for anyone who needs a safe, secure place to store their personal possessions. There are many things to consider before renting a storage unit for the first time, including buying insurance, keeping your unit organized, and making the most of your space:

• Buying Insurance – Self-storage is generally a secure option, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. Insuring your property can give you peace of mind. Keep a thorough record of every item you keep in your storage unit and take photographs if you can. This will help you be fully prepared against any eventuality.
• Not Overstuffing Your Unit – You’ll likely be surprised at how much you can fit in one of our storage units. But that doesn’t mean you should just cram boxes in the unit willy-nilly. Be careful to keep your storage unit organized and accessible. Leave a path so you can walk through your unit and easily access all of your items at any given time. Leave at least some space between your boxes and the unit’s walls. Make sure you turn the lights on as soon as you enter the unit so you don’t stumble.
• Making the Most of Your Space – Planning ahead is key, so you don’t run out of the room, and your storage unit is organized. Put some thought into where to put all of your items. If you have a larger item such as a couch, you’ll want to place it at the back where it will take up as little space as possible. You may also be able to pack light boxes on top of the couch.

Should You Insure Your Items in Storage?

It’s recommended to keep your items insured, no matter what you store in your storage unit. Your items should be protected by being at a secure storage unit. The added protection of insurance is essential in case anything unfortunate occurs. The team at Independence Storage can help you find the right storage insurance for you and answer any questions you may have. Your insurance policy can cover damages in the unlikely event that your storage unit is invaded or vandalized. Insurance policies can also cover potential water damage or pest damage.

Keeping Your Belongings Secure at Independence Storage

While you should insure your belongings in storage, choosing a safe and secure self-storage facility is equally important. Choosing Independence Storage in Mountain View, CA means you can rest easy knowing your items are safe and secure. We also pride ourselves on our customer service and have on-site managers for your convenience. Visit our storage facility today to take a tour and learn more. Contact us today to reserve your storage unit.

Tips for Packing Fragile Items from Independence Storage

How to Pack Your Fragile Items for Storage in Mountain View, CA

Fragile items require extra care when packing and moving. Independence Storage is happy to offer you some tips for packing your fragile items to move them into our storage units in Mountain View, CA. Fragile items are those that can break easily, including glass, valuable collectibles, musical instruments, and more. It’s important to spend a bit of extra time to ensure you’re packing and transporting these fragile items safely. No one wants anything to break while moving, so be sure to learn how to pack your fragile items for storage. Contact our team with any questions or to get a quote for a self-storage unit.

How to Pack and Move Your Fragile Items

If you’re moving fine china into a storage unit, you’ll need to take extra care to ensure your fragile belongings come out in one piece. Start by layering a compact box that weighs no more than 10 pounds with packing peanuts. Wrap each piece of china individually. Bubble wrap is a great way to wrap fragile items. Place your wrapped china inside the box vertically and fill the empty space between them with packing peanuts or crumpled newspaper. Seal the box and mark it as “fragile” with a marker. It’s also a good idea to label the box, so you know what’s in it later. Be sure to use arrows to indicate which side is up. You may also want to use sturdy cardboard dividers between individual cups and other large items, so they don’t bang around. If you use these precautions, your china should arrive in perfect condition.

Tips for Keeping Fragile Items Safe in Storage

Whether you’re removing clutter from your apartment or are in-between homes, renting a storage unit can be extremely helpful. You want to make sure your belongings remain in the same condition they were when they left your home. That means you’ll need to ensure you pack using the proper techniques and materials. Keep reading to learn some useful tips for keeping your fragile items safe while moving them into or out of storage:

• Packing Smart – Your time is valuable, but investing time to pack smart will help ensure your fragile items end up in one piece. Poor packing is one of the most surefire ways to end up with broken belongings when you retrieve them from your storage unit. Fragile items deserve more attention and tend to be more valuable than those that aren’t easily broken. Start by using sturdy boxes that are appropriately sized for your items. The less free room you leave in the box, the less your items can move around.
• Choosing a Safe Storage Facility – How you pack your fragile items is important. But, a safe storage facility is also critical. A quality storage rental company will be attentive and accommodating so you can rest assured that your important belongings are in good hands. Make sure your storage unit is adequately protected, so you don’t have to worry about thieves breaking in and stealing, vandalizing, or damaging your fragile items. Insuring your belongings is another good option.
• Arranging Your Storage Unit – Keeping your fragile items safe starts with packing but also has to do with the arrangement of your storage unit. You never want to stack heavy boxes on top of those that contain fragile items, even if they seem perfectly secure. You also don’t want to stack boxes with fragile items too high. If any of the boxes crumble over time, you could return to your storage unit to find your prized vase shattered on the floor. Keep boxes with fragile items out of aisles where you might accidentally kick them, and be sure to label your boxes so you know which ones contain vulnerable materials.

Should You Put Your Fragile Items in Storage?

All kinds of items and belongings can go into your storage unit as long as you plan ahead. Safely packing fragile belongings such as heirlooms and wedding china can ensure they’re protected from mold, burglary, and other dangers when stored correctly. Learn when these items should be kept in storage:

• If They Are Rarely Used – Old items that you rarely use, such as paintings, heirloom furniture, or expensive china and crystal, can be protected in storage.
• If You Are Transitioning – Whether you’re moving from one home to another or remodeling, there are plenty of reasons to store your fragile items.
• If They Will Be Protected – Your attic, garage, or closet might not be the best place to keep fragile items because they could be damaged by moisture, mold, or other factors.

Choosing the Best Storage Facility for You

A self-storage unit is a great option if you want to keep your fragile items safe and secure. Independence Storage in Mountain View, CA is an excellent place to keep your fragile belongings. Our ground-level units with ten-foot-high ceilings make storing your fragile items easy. Our storage facility is secure and we have on-site managers to make sure you’re always taken care of. Contact us today to learn more, schedule a tour, or reserve your storage unit.

How to Choose the Best Storage Facility in Mountain View, CA

Tips for Picking the Right Storage Facility from Independent Storage

Everyone has stuff, but sometimes you don’t always have a place to put it. Independence Storage is a top-rated storage facility in Mountain View, CA. Our self-storage units are all 10-foot-tall ground-level units. Some people think that all storage facilities are the same, but that’s not the case. At Independence Storage, we care about you and your belongings. We’ve prepared some tips for picking the right storage facility. Take a few moments to read through them, and then contact us today to learn about our manager’s specials.

What to Look for in a Storage Facility

We all care about the security of our belongings, and it’s important to find the best storage facility. So, what separates one storage facility from the next? The first is finding a self-storage place with on-site managers who make sure your items are safe after the gates close. You also want to look for a storage facility that offers electronic keypad access. Because your storage needs can change suddenly, find a facility that does not require a minimum stay or penalize you for moving your belongings out early. Independence Storage has everything you’re looking for in a storage facility. We have nearly two decades of experience. Our facility offers secure, ground-level units with no minimum stay as well as customized billing and payment options.

Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Storage Facility

If you’re reviewing your storage options, you will want to make sure you choose a storage rental company that’s prepared to fulfill all of your storage needs. Doing your research and touring the facility can help you rest easy, knowing you’re placing all your items into the best available storage unit. There are multiple factors you should consider when choosing your next storage facility. The first thing to consider is whether the facility requires a long-term contract. A quality storage facility will offer short-term and long-term rental agreements. You should also ensure the storage facility has a comprehensive security system to protect your belongings. You should choose a storage facility that offers spacious, ground-level units for ease of access.

Choosing the Best Self-Storage Facility

Not being able to access your belongings or learning that they’ve been destroyed in storage are not pleasant experiences. To choose the best storage services, you’ll need to assess your needs, find out if the facility has an on-site manager, and learn about the terms and price of storage services. Learn more about these three crucial factors to consider when choosing the ideal self-storage facility:

• Knowing What You Need – Size matters when it comes to self-storage units. If you only have a small number of items, you won’t want to pay for a larger unit. At the same time, you won’t want to cram a whole houseful of items into a small unit. At Independence Storage, you can always move into a larger or smaller unit.
• Presence of a Manager – Having an on-site manager provides for better customer service, so you don’t have to play phone tag to get the answers you need. Our managers can answer your questions and take care of your needs.
• Minimum Stay Requirements – Always be sure to understand the terms of your storage contract. Some facilities only offer services for a certain timeframe, while others like ours are more flexible. At Independence Storage, all unused rent is refunded after the first month.

What to Consider When Choosing a Storage Facility

It’s crucial to select the storage facility that best suits your needs. You don’t want to be spending more than you should be or making things more difficult for yourself. Consider the following factors when choosing a storage facility in Mountain View, CA:

• Decide What Kind of Unit You Need – Ground-level storage units are ideal for easy access and to load and unload conveniently. Our facility offers all ground-level self-storage units to make your life easy.
• Size Up Your Space – It’s easy to choose the right size of the storage unit. Our facility has recommendations for you, and you can always ask us if you have questions. Use our guidelines to choose the best unit for you and then consider ways to maximize your space, such as adding shelves to your unit.
• Consider Security – One of the most important aspects of a storage facility is security. You’ll provide your own padlock, but you also want other elements such as electronic keypad entry, security cameras, and an on-site manager.

How to Choose the Right Self-Storage Unit for You

Renting a self-storage unit is a convenient, inexpensive way to give yourself extra space for your belongings. When you choose Independence Storage in Mountain View, CA, you’ll rest easy knowing we provide excellent customer service and customer-friendly features. Each storage unit rental is a ground-level unit with ten-foot-high ceilings. We offer excellent security, expansive units, and customizable billing. We encourage you to visit to take a tour of our storage facility and ask us any questions you may have. Contact us today to learn more or reserve your storage unit.

How to Choose the Right Self-Storage Unit for You

Whether you are in need of extra storage space at home or you have items you don’t need but aren’t ready to part with, renting a self-storage unit is a convenient, inexpensive way to give yourself extra storage space. When looking for a storage unit, you will find that most self-storage facilities offer a range of sizes of storage units. At Independence Storage, we pride ourselves on providing excellent customer service and an overall wonderful experience for our customers. Our customer-friendly features make us one of the most popular self-storage facilities in Palo Alto. Each storage unit rental is a ground-level storage unit with ten-foot-high ceilings. We offer a variety of self-storage unit sizes to ensure that each customer gets the storage unit rental that he needs.

Features to Look For in A Self-Storage Facility

Excellent Security

Security is one of the most important features to look for in your self-storage facility. You must feel confident that you can store your treasured heirlooms and belongings in a secure location. The most secure self-storage facilities will have on-site managers to monitor all of the units and the property. Facilities should also keep the property protected with gates and individual electronic keypads. These security measures will ensure that only you can access your items, and you can feel safe and confident in your self-storage facility.

Expansive Units

Stored items have a way of expanding, especially as you continue through your life and gather more mementos and personal items. You need a storage unit that can accommodate your growing amount of storage. Quality storage facilities and storage rental companies will rent out a variety of storage sizes to suit your needs. These units should have high ceilings to give you the maximum amount of space in whichever unit size you choose.

Customizable Billing

A great self-storage facility will give you many options in storage units and billing. There are many different ways to pay, such as weekly, monthly, and annually. In addition to versatile payment options, you can work with your store manager to find the right price for you. A storage rental company should be dedicated to giving you as many billing and storage options available. Look for the facility that places a priority on your comfort and peace of mind.

Tips for Picking the Right Storage Facility

Determine the Size Needed for Your Storage Unit Rental

The first thing that you need to do is determine what size storage unit you’ll need. Most storage facilities have storage units in a variety of sizes, and you want to make sure that you don’t end up with more or less storage space than you need. You can estimate your self-storage unit size by mapping out which items you plan on storing. You should always choose a storage unit that is slightly larger than you think you’ll need so that you’ll have room to retrieve items from the unit as needed.

Visit a Few Storage Facilities in Your Area

Don’t just choose the closest or cheapest storage facility in your area. Instead, visit a few different storage facilities in person. You want to confirm that the storage facilities are clean, well managed, secure, and easily accessible. You can even ask the manager or owner to show you a storage unit rental so that you can see what you’ll be working with. Once you’ve visited a few storage facilities, it will be easier to make your decision

Ask the Right Questions

You can make sure that you get the most out of your storage unit rental near Mountain View if you ask the right questions of the self-storage facility’s manager before signing a rental agreement. You should make sure that you know the storage facility’s rental contract and billing options, access hours and security features, and available storage unit sizes. Here are just a few of the questions that you should ask before committing to a storage unit rental.

What Are Your Rental Terms and Billing Options?

Before renting a self-storage unit, you should determine how long you think you’ll need to store your belongings there. If you aren’t really sure how long you’ll need your storage unit, you should choose a storage facility that offers flexible rental contracts and billing options. This allows you to rent a storage unit month-to-month, rather than on a long-term lease, making it easier to store your items without worrying about them. You can also choose to pre-pay for your unit when it’s convenient for you, rather than receiving a monthly bill.

How Secure is the Storage Facility And What are Your Access Hours?

Regardless of what you’ll be storing in your self-storage unit, you want to choose a secure storage facility. A secure storage facility will only allow access via an electronic keypad to ensure that your belongings are safe from theft or vandalism. You’ll also want to be clear on what the access hours are for your storage facility. Some storage facilities only allow renters access to their storage units during certain hours.

What Sizes Do You Offer for Self-Storage Units?

You should rent a storage unit that is slightly larger than you think you’ll need so that you’ll have room to find and retrieve boxes when you need to access your items. Find out from the storage facility manager what storage unit sizes they offer to renters. Make sure that they offer a storage unit in a size that meets your particular needs.

Watch this video to learn more about how to choose the right storage unit:

Whether you are in need of extra storage space at home or you have items you don’t need but aren’t ready to part with, renting a self-storage unit can solve a lot of your problems. Visit Independence Storage in Mountain View, CA for safe and accessible self-storage. Our secure storage facility protects customers’ storage units with electronic keypad access. Our office is open Monday through Saturday, and customers have access to their storage units seven days a week, 365 days a year. During office hours, there is always a manager on-site to answer customer questions and provide service. To make self-storage easy for our customers, we offer flexible billing and payment options. There is no minimum stay for our storage unit rentals, and any unused rent is refunded after your first month of use. You can rent an affordable storage unit without having to commit to a full year’s lease. We also offer discounts for pre-payment and allow our customers to sign up for automatic payments.

Don’t Believe These Myths About Storage Facility Security

Smart Packing and Storage Tips for First Time Storage Unit Renters

Tips for Safely Storing Photos

Simple Strategies for Decluttering

Spotlight on Our Safety Features

Expert Pest Prevention Tips for Storage Units by Independence Storage

Learn the Dos and Don’ts of Helping Your Child Pack for College

How Should I Store My Furniture?

Must-Have Supplies for Temporary Storage

Protect Important Documents with Independence Storage’s Expert Tips