• How to Decide What to Put Into Storage

    A common issue faced by homeowners is having more stuff than they have room to hold. If you have too many belongings to store or keep organized in your home, then taking advantage of self-storage services in Mountain View can be incredibly beneficial. While moving your items into a storage unit is a simple process, deciding what should go into storage and what should remain at home can be difficult. Use the following tips to help choose what should go into your storage unit .

    First, it’s important to know what items should not go into storage, and this includes anything living, toxic, highly flammable, or edible. Next, consider the size of your storage unit. If you have something large or bulky you’re thinking of storing, then you should first determine if your unit can accommodate it. Finally, consider the time of year and your household’s needs. There are likely to be items that your family won’t need again for several months, such as summer gear or holiday décor, and these types of belongings are often an ideal choice for putting into storage.

    Goods storage units in Mountview, CA

  • Common Reasons People Rent Storage Facilities

     

    When you look at your storage options, it’s often a good idea to consider renting a storage unit in Palo Alto. This can help you crack down and get rid of the clutter that’s been building up in your apartment, and it can also make it easier for those who travel on a regular basis. Some people look to storage units when they move, whether the plan is to temporarily move to college or to move away from an area where friends and family will remain. Keep reading to see why people choose to rent storage facilities. storage - facility

    Clearing Out the Clutter

    It doesn’t matter if you live in a shed or a mansion; if you have enough belongings, you may find yourself dealing with clutter. This inefficient use of space can be annoying and inconvenient, and for some people it can even induce anxiety. A local storage unit can be an excellent solution to this problem. You won’t have to throw away anything with exclusively sentimental value, but you will reap the benefits of a cleaner and more practical living space. You can even visit your storage unit and access your belongings any day of the week, so you should never feel like you are taking a risk.

    Enjoying Regular Travel

    Some people live a lifestyle that is based around travel, and a storage unit may be just what this type of personality needs. You might travel for business, for pleasure, or to see your friends and family. No matter what keeps you on the road, it’s nice to have a home base for some of your belongings. You can use your storage unit rental to keep clothing, a toothbrush, or anything else you might need after your travels.

    Moving to a New Location

    Some people move to a new area with no intention of looking back, while others have reasons to regularly return. If you fall into the latter category, a storage unit can help you keep your belongings safe. Even if you are moving just a few hours away, a storage unit makes it easy to access anything you didn’t take with you.

     

  • Packing Picture Frames for Storage

    When packing your picture frames for temporary storage in Mountain View, there is a right way to keep them protected. Picture frames should be moved and stored in boxes specifically meant to hold these items in self-storage. This will ensure that they are properly protected while they set in your storage unit .

    Watch the video for the right way to pack your picture frames in a frame box. Set your picture in the middle of several sheets of packing paper. Fold the paper around the frame, like you would if you were wrapping a present. Tape the sides down, and label the paper. Stuff paper into the frame box to rest on the bottom, and slowly slide the wrapped frame into the box. Stuff more paper into the top of the box, and tape it shut. Label the box so it does not get lost in the storage unit.

  • Do You Need Insurance for Your Storage Facility?

    No matter what you store in your storage unit, it is recommended by all storage rental companies that you keep your items insured. Your items should be protected by being at a secure storage unit near Palo Alto , and you should have the added protection of insurance in the event something unfortunate occurs.

    Most homeowner’s and renter’s insurances will cover the items that you keep in your storage unit. It is best to double check with your insurance, though. If your insurance company does not cover your items in storage, then your storage rental company will most likely have policies to offer you.

    It is necessary to insure your storage items. In the unlikely event that your storage unit is invaded or vandalized, your insurance policy can cover the damages. Policies may also cover potential water damage or pest damage, if these were to occur. Speak with your storage rental company and insurance company on the best ways to protect your items from damage.

    storage - insurance

  • Myths about Using Storage Units

     

    People around the world use storage units for housing extra belongings, important documents, and bulky items. When you are in need of some extra storage space, it is a great idea to take a tour of a self storage facility in your local area. A company offering different storage options in Mountain View can help you pick out a storage unit that is tailored to your specific needs. In order to achieve the best benefits from your storage unit rental, you will want to make sure that you gather plenty of information about your facility. Read on to learn about a few myths about storage unit rentals. storage - units

    Myth: Storage Units Are Not Secure

    A common misconception about storage units is that these types of facilities are not safe and secure. However, a high-quality storage unit facility will be equipped with state-of-the-art security features, including 24-hour alarms, surveillance cameras, and more. All of these security features will provide you with total peace of mind after you put your stuff into storage.

    Myth: Self Storage Units Have Fewer Services

    As you are getting ready to rent a storage unit, you will have the option of choosing between full-service and self storage. A myth surrounding self storage is that this type of storage comes with fewer services and features than a full-service unit. Your self storage unit will provide you with the same amenities as a full-service facility, and will simply require you to complete the loading and unloading process on your own.

    Myth: Storage Units Require Extended Contracts

    If you have been waiting to rent a storage unit because you are afraid of signing a lengthy contract, you will be pleased to learn that storage unit rentals are available for both long- and short-term periods. Temporary storage is a great option for students or families who are gearing up to move. Your storage unit staff can answer any questions that you may have about the myths and facts surrounding storage.

     

  • How Having a Storage Unit Can Help You Move

    Whether you are moving to a new neighborhood, or are getting ready for a long-distance relocation, you may want to consider renting a storage unit in preparation for your move. Storage units provide families with additional space to house their belongings as they are getting organized for a move. A storage rental company near Mountain View can provide you with the temporary storage rental that you need to streamline your moving process. To highlight the advantages of storage unit rental, here is a look at three ways having a storage unit can assist you during the moving process. storage - unit

    Storage Units Allow for a Flexible Timeline

    If you are searching for a new residence, but have not yet figured out where you are going to live, your storage unit rental can allow you to begin the moving process on a flexible timeline. When you move your belongings into storage, you can rest assured that they will be safe and protected. After storing your stuff, you can easily stay at a friend or family member’s house while you are on the hunt for a new home.

    Storage Units Provide Additional Space

    Families that are downsizing during a move may want to explore the advantages of storage unit rentals. With your storage unit rental, you can house your important personal items in a safe location while you are getting organized. In the event that you find that your new home does not have enough storage for all of your belongings, a storage unit can provide you with the space you need to hang on to your treasured items.

    Storage Units Can Ease Your Stress

    Another great advantage of using a storage unit when you move is that your rental will help to ease your stress during the moving process. Rather than worrying about packing in a hurry and then moving all of your boxes and belongings in a single day, you can take your time and gradually move your items in and out of storage.

  • How to Pack Clothing for Storage

    When you are packing clothes to place in a storage unit near Palo Alto, there are several factors that you will want to keep in mind. By preparing your clothing before it is placed in your storage rental , you can save time and energy when it comes time to unpack your belongings. For example, it is a great idea to wash and fold your clothes before they are placed in your storage unit rental. You can get more tips by watching this video.

    Clean clothes will be fresh and appealing when they are taken out of a storage unit. Additionally, it is also a terrific idea to group similar types of clothing as you pack. For example, you may want to designate a specific box for your winter clothes. A company that offers storage options can provide you with the perfect space for storing your extra clothes.

  • The Benefits of Ground-Level Storage

    If you have been thinking about using a self-storage facility, then consider looking for one with ground-level storage units near Mountain View . With ground-level storage, you can take greater advantage of the many benefits of having a storage unit. Here is a brief look at how a ground-level storage unit can help you.

    • By using a ground-level storage unit, you can enjoy easier access to all of your stored items. You will not have to climb up stairs to reach your storage unit, making it a more comfortable option when unloading and loading your furniture and boxes.
    • You can have access to bigger storage options with ground-level units. Your storage facility will be able to make its units tall and large without having to accommodate multiple floors of storage units.
    • It is easier to get around a ground-level storage facility. Instead of navigating stairs, elevators, and multiple floors, you can find your storage unit and park next to it without hassle.

    self - storage

  • Finding the Right Self-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 in Palo Alto 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.

    Check out this video to get a better idea of what types of storage units are available to rent. Ranging from the size of a large closet all the way up to a multiple car garage, storage units come in a variety of sizes to suit anyone’s needs. This makes it easy to find the right storage unit for you!

    Rent the perfect self storage unit

  • Customer-Friendly Features at Independence Storage

    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.

    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.

    Map of Silicon Valley in Mountain View, CA

  • Pop Culture: The Surprising History of Bubble Wrap [INFOGRAPHIC]

    If you’ve ever packed or unpacked a box, chances are you’ve come across plastic sheeting better known as bubble wrap. Bubble wrap is an excellent packing material that protects fragile items during shipment and storage—and it’s also satisfying to pop! You might be surprised to learn that bubble wrap was originally invented not as a packing material, but as a way to create textured wallpaper. When that idea didn’t take off, it was used as greenhouse insulation. Eventually, bubble wrap was used to protect IBM computers during shipment in the late 1950s, and has been the packing and storage material of choice ever since. Take a look at this infographic from Independence Storage, a self-storage facility in Palo Alto , to learn more about the history of bubble wrap, and what makes popping it so entertaining. Please feel free to share these fun facts with your friends and family.

    History of bubble wrap

  • Independence Storage: Different from the Rest

    At Independence Storage, our secure storage facility in Palo Alto offers customizable self-storage options that will meet your individual needs. Our managers are on-site six days a week, and you can access your self-storage unit 365 days per year. The storage facility is only accessible via an electronic keypad to ensure that your belongings are safe and secure at all times.

    All of our units are ground-level storage units, making it easy to load and unload belongings directly from your self-storage unit. Each storage unit has 10-foot ceilings, so they can accommodate unique storage needs. Our customizable storage unit rental agreements and billing options make it easy for you to rent a storage unit on your terms, for as long or short a period as you need one.

    We have no minimum rental period, so you can rent a unit for less than a month if you need to. You can pay monthly, pre-pay, or sign up for automatic payments. We also offer storage unit rental discounts to customers who pre-pay, and pro-rated refunds for unused storage units after a customer’s first month of renting with us.

    Street view of Independence Storage in Mountain View, CA

  • Reasons to Get a Self-Storage Unit

    If you are tired of tripping over your belongings, it may be time to look into a self-storage facility in Palo Alto. This same secure storage facility might also be helpful if your job has you traveling across the country on a regular basis, or if you like to go all out when it comes to decorating for the holidays. A storage unit can be a convenient solution in all sorts of situations. Read on for a closer look at these reasons to get a self-storage unit. Secure Storage Facility in Palo Alto

    Running Out of Room

    You do not need to live in a mansion to enjoy your personal space; all you have to do is understand how to cut down on clutter. Fortunately, self-storage facilities make it easy to keep your home clean, organized, and clutter-free, so even the smallest apartments can feel roomy enough for your needs. A storage unit can help you take back your closet, attic, garage, or other area of your house that has become overrun with clutter. This is the perfect solution for those items that are too sentimental to let go of but not functional enough to make use of.

    Constantly On the Go

    If you live in New York but frequently attend to business on the West Coast, it may behoove you to rent a storage unit in Palo Alto. This will give you a sort of “home base” where you can keep a few of your important things that you would like to have with you whenever you work away from home. If these belongings are already in town when you arrive, you do not need to worry about bringing them on the plane. Storage facilities are perfect for a busy, “on the go” lifestyle.

    Seasonal Decorations

    You might see more seasonal decorations during the winter than any other time of year, but some homes are committed to celebrating every holiday. If this describes your level of holiday cheer, you might need a place to store your lights, inflatables, and other decorations. If you do not have a basement or an attic, a storage unit is perfect.

  • Choosing the Best Self-Storage Facility

    You never want to be kept apart from your belongings or learn that they have been destroyed while in storage, which is why it is crucial that you choose the best self-storage unit in Mountain View for your needs. Choosing the right professional storage services can be easy; simply assess your needs, find out if they have an on-site store manager, and learn about the way they charge for their services. Please continue on if you would like some assistance in choosing the best self-storage facility. Checklist with red ink at Independence Storage in Mountain View, CA

    Knowing What You Need

    One of the most important aspects of a self-storage facility is the range of units that it has to offer. If you are only looking for some extra space to store the clutter from your studio apartment, you will not need a storage space the size of your living space itself. Think about the items that you will be moving to storage and the amount of space you will need to keep them safe. If you are torn between two options, it may be wise to go for the bigger one so that you do not have to stack all of your things on top of each other. However, it can also be wasteful to pay for a unit if you don’t use the entire space.

    Presence of a Manager

    A self-storage facility with an on-site manager may be able to offer you a greater level of customer service. Rather than playing phone tag or searching around to try and find the information you need, you can head to the storage facility and talk to the manager. This can expedite the process of answering your questions and alleviating your concerns, and it may contribute to the safety of your belongings.

    Minimum Stay Requirements

    You should always understand the terms of a contract before you sign it. Certain self-storage facilities will only offer their services if you commit to a certain timeframe of storage, while others tend to be more flexible. Some even offer special perks, like refunds of unused rent. Know how long your facility expects you to use their services.

  • Tips for Selecting a New Storage Unit

    Picking the right self-storage unit to rent is as important as picking the right home—you want to be sure that the bulk of your belongings and prized possessions are secured, properly housed, and kept in good condition. With all of the self-storage facilities in Palo Alto to choose from, it benefits you to know what to look out for when selecting a new storage unit. Do your research and compile a list of potential places to check out. And come prepared with questions in hand. Easily accessible new storage unit Palo Alto

    Choose an Accessible Unit

    Good self-storage facilities are always easily accessible to their renters. Choose a facility that is located near where you plan to be, and that is staffed with helpful, courteous, and knowledgeable attendants. Remember to be mindful of its hours of operation. Not only should your unit be accessible distance-wise, but it also should be conveniently accessible based on your schedule, which may mean being open on weekends and holidays too.

    Go with a Facility That Is Secure

    Security is very important. After all, you expect that your things will be safely contained inside your unit at all times. Pick a place that has a security fence or wall with electronic gates that are controlled by a keypad or swipe pass. There should be active surveillance cameras scattered throughout the property too. For extra security and peace of mind, be sure to invest in the strongest and most appropriate lock that you can afford for your unit.

    Inspect the Unit Before Signing a Contract

    A storage unit’s cleanliness reflects on the facility as a whole. Not many people would willingly pay good money to store they precious belongings in a filthy room, and neither should you. Before you sign any paperwork, be sure to tour the facility and have a look inside any unit you plan to rent. Do not hesitate to move on elsewhere if a certain facility’s standards are not in line with yours.

    Consider a Climate-Controlled Unit

    Take an inventory of your belongings before you choose a self-storage unit. If you own items that are sensitive to temperature, humidity, or pests, you may want to consider renting a climate-controlled room. Ask your local storage professional about the benefits of this option and if it is right for you.

  • What Makes Independence Storage Unique?

    When life happens and you need a self-storage to keep your belongings safe and secure, work with Independence Storage in Mountain View . Unlike other storage facilities in Palo Alto, Independence Storage offers customized storage solutions to fit your unique needs. For example, customizable billing options for short-term and long-term clients and pre-payment discounts can make storing your belongings at Independence Storage more convenient and affordable than anywhere else. Independence Storage also offers storage refunds so you’re never stuck paying for a unit you no longer need, even if you decide to move out in the middle of the month.

    Stop by Independence Storage today to see why more people in Mountain View and Palo Alto trust this storage facility than any other. You can also contact Independence Storage online to get a quote on a self-storage unit.

    Unique Storages by Independence Storage in Mountain View, CA

  • Independence Storage Facility Features

    Storage facility in Mountain View

    If you’re looking for convenient self-storage services in Mountain View at an affordable price, look no further than Independence Storage. Students, homeowners, and business owners in Palo Alto choose Independence Storage for all of their self-storage needs. What separates Independence Storage from other facilities in the area?

    For starters, Independence Storage offers many different-sized units and customizable billing options for your convenience. You will also appreciate the fact that Independence Storage will give you a prorated refund if you decide to move out before the end of the month. As far as the facility itself, 10-foot high ceilings make it easier for you to fit more items into your storage unit. Electronic keypad access maximizes security and gives you peace of mind that your belongings are safe. Independence Storage offers convenient access seven days a week from 7am to 7pm every day of the year.

  • What Sets Independence Storage Apart?

    Independence Storage is proud to serve as the premium self-storage facility serving Mountain View . With our dedicated staff and high-quality storage units, we give you all of the tools you need to safely store any of your belongings.

    With 18 years of experience in the industry, we understand how to offer reliable and convenient storage units. We always have professional managers on-site to ensure that everything runs smoothly. With electronic keypads, we can ensure the best security. Our staff is ready to help you find a unit that meets your needs. Since our facility only handles storage units, we are able to dedicate all of our attention to giving you the optimal storage experience.

    Whether you need short or long-term storage, we provide the units and the facility management that you need to feel comfortable about the condition of your belongings. We do everything we can to give you the best storage experience in the Mountain View area.

  • Tips for Packing Boxes for Your Storage Unit

    Packing boxes for storage isn’t exactly an art form, but it’s pretty close. By making sure to properly pack your belongings, you can expect them to come out of their boxes in good shape. Good packing techniques can also help you conserve space so you can get the most out of every box and fit more items in your storage unit. Here are some tips for packing boxes before you move everything into a self-storage facility in Mountain View .

    tips for packing boxes

    Use the Right Boxes

    The right box makes all the difference. Heavy items should be packed in small boxes, while light items should be placed in bigger ones. Large boxes packed with heavy items not only make for back-breaking work but also have a better chance of breaking during transportation.

    Pack Heavy to Light

    When packing the boxes themselves, place heavier items at the bottom of the box and lighter items on top. This will prevent light, fragile items from breaking and will add stability to the boxes. The same concept applies when placing the boxes in the storage unit, with lighter boxes stacked on top of heavier ones.

    Fill in Empty Spaces

    Empty space inside packing boxes allows items to move around and potentially break. To keep everything in its place, fill in gaps with clothing, towels, or packing paper. Boxes that are loosely packed or unbalanced can also be hard to move due to the shifting weight inside the box.

    Label and Tape Boxes Well

    Label each box with the room it’s destined for and a description of its contents. This will help you quickly find a particular item, especially when the time comes to take your boxes out of storage. Once the boxes are labeled, tape close the bottom and top seams and make a couple of wraps around the box’s top and bottom edges, where stress is concentrated.

  • Tips for Customizing Your Storage Space

    These days, you can have just about anything the way you want it. Extra pickles, extra mayo on your burger? No problem! Want that leather couch in red? It’ll be here in a week. Fortunately, the same can be said when it comes to your storage options. Some self-storage facilities in Mountain View will allow you to customize your storage unit rental to fit your needs. Here are some things to think about that will help you get the most out of your storage unit rental .

    storage space in Capitola

    Billing Options

    While it isn’t necessarily the case that no two renters are alike, a lot of people who rent storage facilities do have different billing needs. Whether you are renting a short-term unit, a long-term unit, or you aren’t sure how long you will need to keep your belongings in storage, customizable billing options allow you to pay for your unit whenever is best for you. Add online bill payments or automatic withdrawals for added convenience.

    Length of Use

    How long you will require a storage unit depends on a number of different factors, the primary one being why you are renting a storage unit in the first place. Whether you are staging for a move, downsizing your home, combining households, or away at college, you should be able to determine how long (or how short) your storage rental is.

    Pre-Payment Options

    If it is the case that you will have your belongings in storage for quite some time, look into pre-payment options that can help save you money in the long run. By pre-paying for your self-storage unit in Mountain View, you may be able to receive a sizeable pre-pay discount. Some storage facilities may even offer pre-payment options for short-term rentals as well. And to make sure you don’t pay for more time than you need, look for a storage facility that offers prorated storage refunds for mid-month move outs.