• Don’t Believe These Myths About Storage Facility Security

    It’s natural to be a little worried about leaving your belongings at a storage facility. Just remember that the security of your things are a top priority for the company—after all, the company doesn’t want a break-in to cause legal liability or ruin the facility’s reputation. High-security storage units in Mountain View take extra steps to safeguard your possessions.

    Myth: Anyone could walk in and steal my stuff. Secured storage facility in Mountain View, CA

    Reputable self-storage rental companies take the safety and security of their customers’ belongings very seriously. Good storage companies invest a great deal into their security measures. When you choose a facility, look for well-built security fences and gates. Most storage facilities secure the property with a high-tech alarm and electronic keypad access.

    Myth: Employees are rarely on-site.

    Once you rent a storage unit, you’ll have easy access to it whenever you want—without having to find an employee to help you. Unfortunately, this has led many people to mistakenly think that managers are rarely at the facility to supervise the grounds and protect the storage rentals. This isn’t the case at reputable storage facilities. Look for a company staffed by capable professionals who are readily available to keep an eye on the facility.

    Myth: I have to buy extra insurance, even if the facility looks safe.

    Most storage facilities do force their customers to purchase storage insurance coverage. This is usually unnecessary and only adds additional fees to the rental. Look for a facility that accepts your current renter’s or homeowner’s insurance policy.

    Myth: If I’m a day late with the rent, my stuff can be auctioned off.

    This is a frightening prospect, but you can rest assured that your belongings will be protected by state law and the terms of your rental agreement. In California, absolutely nothing can be done to your rental unit until it’s been at least 14 consecutive days since the payment was missed. Even at that time, an auction can’t take place. The storage facility must send a written preliminary lien notice to the renter, which provides notification of the date of termination of the rental agreement. This date must be at least 14 days from the date of the notice. At that point, the facility owner must send another notice of a lien sale, notifying the renter when the unit will be auctioned. This date can’t be any less than 14 days from this second notice. At any point, the renter can satisfy the arrears and halt the sale.

  • How Should I Protect My Files in Storage?

    Using a storage unit for files can be a great solution for keeping your personal documents or for storing dwocuments for your business. Protecting those files properly will ensure that they’re always ready when you need them. If you’re renting a storage unit in Mountain View for your files, use these strategies for protecting them from damage.

    Start by ensuring that your files are completely dry, and then pack them in airtight containers with hard outer shells. If you must store your documents in boxes, make sure that the boxes are strong and that you put the papers themselves in sleeve protectors. Use wooden pallets to keep the boxes off of the ground. Label all of your storage containers clearly with waterproof markers, so you can easily find the items you need. Don’t over-pack the containers, which can weaken them and make them more difficult to transport. Many people find it helpful to store their documents near the front of their storage units so that they are easy to access.

    File storage facility in Mountain View, CA

  • The Military Family’s Guide to Storing Stuff During a Deployment

    A deployment can be a tough time for every member of your family. If you are getting ready for a long deployment, you will need to deal with practical matters, such as where to keep your belongings while you are overseas. A storage unit rental facility in Palo Alto will provide you with a secure storage unit to keep all of your household items while you are on deployment. If you are gearing up for a deployment, keep the following storage tips in mind: military - move

    Consider Downsizing Your Home

    If your deployment will last for 12 months or more, your family may want to choose to move into a smaller home while you are away. As you are choosing what to place in storage, and what will remain with your family during the deployment, consider downsizing some of your items. By donating or eliminating some of your family’s stuff, you will have an easier time during the moving and storage process.

    Ask About Auto Storage

    For many families, auto storage is necessary during a long deployment. Rather than having your car sit in the driveway while you are away overseas, you can protect the value and safety of your vehicle by placing it into storage. Many self storage facilities have auto storage options that are perfect for military members and their families. After you have placed your car into storage, you will not have to worry about keeping it protected while you are away.

    Evaluate Your Security Needs

    Since you will be far away from your family during your deployment, you will need to make sure that you choose a secure storage facility for your belongings. High security storage units are equipped with advanced safety features that will protect your stuff during your deployment. Before you leave for your trip, take the time to inspect the storage unit and ensure that it offers all of the security features are needed to provide you with peace of mind while you are away.

  • Quick Packing Tips

    If you are moving your belongings into a storage unit near Mountain View, you should take the time to pack your items correctly. This video from Chasing the Look will provide you with some quick packing tips to keep in mind during your move into a storage unit. As you are packing your boxes, you can label your boxes with painter’s tape for easy identification. Old towels and clothing can be used to protect delicate items when they are placed in boxes.

    For more essential packing tips , contact a company that offers self storage in your local area. The professionals who work at a storage facility will be happy to provide you with more information about the best ways to pack up your stuff in preparation for a move.

  • Your Room-by-Room Guide to Home Decluttering

    Decluttering your home may seem like an impossible endeavor at times, but it can be easily done when broken down into manageable parts. If you declutter one room or space at a time, then you will soon find your home is cleaner and more spacious than you thought possible. Take advantage of different storage options in Mountain View —such as a storage unit or storage shed rental—to help you declutter your home room by room. Here is a quick guide to help you declutter your home. home - storage

    The Bathrooms

    Your bathrooms are one of the most important areas of your home to declutter, because you can save a great amount of time during the morning and evening. It is important to regularly update your medications, skin care products, and toiletries. Decluttering these items can significantly reduce the clutter and free up space in your bathrooms.

    The Closets

    Your closets naturally become a place for extra storage, such as clothing, shoes, toys, bedding, and rarely-used items. Closets are an important area to declutter, because you often find clothing that no longer fits, has become damaged, or was forgotten about. You can also separate and store seasonal clothing in your storage unit to create more space.

    The Office

    Your office can quickly become a dumping ground for old files, mail, and random pieces of paper clutter. Decluttering the office might take a little more time than other areas of your home, because you will want to inspect each piece of paper before recycling or shredding it. Once you clear off your desks, place filing boxes in your storage unit, and declutter your working space, however, then you have more freedom to finish your projects.

    The Garage

    You may find yourself storing tools, recreational items, and large appliances in your garage. These items can quickly overtake your garage space and prevent you from parking your vehicles. Choose other storage options, such as a storage shed rental, to store these tools and appliances until you need them.

  • How to Pack Dishes for Storage

    It is important to pack your fragile belongings , such as dishes, correctly to keep them from breaking during a move to your storage unit in Palo Alto. To keep your dishes truly secure against breakage, use dish-specific moving boxes and moving paper. Read on for how to use these items to pack your dishes for self-storage.

    As you can see in the video, packing dishes for storage is not a difficult process. Ensure there is ample paper at the bottom of your box. Place a dish in the middle of a stack of moving papers, and fold one edge over the plate. Place another dish onto the covered dish, and cover that plate. Use this process for four plates at a time, and fold over the rest of the corners. Put the secure stack of dishes vertically into the box and continue until full. Move each box into your storage unit with care.

  • Affordable Self-Storage: Our Payment Plans and Discounts

    At Independence Storage, we are proud to provide our clients with affordable self storage in Mountain View . If you have decided that you are in need of a storage rental, but you are worried about the cost, be sure to review the many payment plans and discounts that we have to offer. By financing the cost of your storage unit, you will be able to create an affordable payment plan for your rental term.

    One of our best payment plan options is for those clients who are looking for temporary storage rental. For clients that will be renting one of our units for a year or less, we offer terrific savings on pay ahead plans. By paying for your rental in advance, you will receive a fantastic discount. If you would prefer to make monthly payments, we can also set you up with an affordable monthly plan. With our financing program, you will be able to easily afford your storage unit rental.

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  • Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Storage Facility

    If you are reviewing storage options in Mountain View, you will want to make sure that you choose a storage rental company that is prepared to fulfill all of your storage needs. By doing your research and touring the facility, you can rest assured that you are placing your items into the best available storage unit. There are several factors that you will want to keep in mind when you are choosing your next storage facility.

    One essential factor to consider when you choose a storage facility is whether the facility requires you to enter into a long term contract. Ideally, your storage facility should offer both short-term and long-term rental agreements. You will also want to make sure that the facility has been equipped with a comprehensive security system that will protect your belongings. For ease of access, you should also choose a storage facility that provides spacious, ground level units. Once you have found a facility that meets these requirements, you will be ready to start moving your stuff into storage.

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  • Proper Storage for Mattresses

    A mattress is a bulky item that can take up a lot of space in your storage unit. In this video, you will learn some essential tips to keep in mind when you are placing a mattress into self storage. When you bring your mattress to a storage unit in Mountain View , you will want to make sure that you place it in an area where it can lie perfectly flat. If the mattress is not stored in a flat area, it may become misshapen over time.

    Once you have found the perfect spot for your mattress, you can start placing other items on top of its surface. Ideally, you will want to stack lightweight boxes on top of your mattress. It is also important to ensure that the weight on the surface of your mattress is evenly distributed.

  • Preparing Your Boat for Storage

    During the winter months, many boat owners choose to protect their vessels by placing them in a secure dry storage facility . A spacious storage unit in Mountain View will provide you with the capacity that you need to store your boat until you are ready to take your next outing in the spring. Before you bring your boat to the storage rental company, there are several steps that you will need to take to make sure that it is prepared. To help you get ready for putting your boat in a storage rental, here is a look at the steps of preparing your boat for storage. boat - storage

    Take One Last Outing

    Before you place your boat into a storage unit, you may want to head out on the water one last time. During your final trip of the boating season, you can take note of any mechanical repairs or other issues that need to be addressed around your vessel. By taking the time to inspect your boat while it is launched, you will have a better idea of how to get it expedition ready for the spring.

    Perform a Thorough Cleaning

    When you place your boat into storage, it should not be dirty or covered in seawater and other contaminants. After your boat hull has been lifted out of the water, you will be ready to clean it very thoroughly. Along with scrubbing the hull, you will also want to inspect and clear out the interior and head areas.

    Protect Your Boat’s Engine

    As a boat engine sits throughout the winter season, it may slowly start to deteriorate and develop mechanical issues. To ensure that your boat will be in peak performing shape after the winter storage season is over, there are a few preventative maintenance steps that you can perform. By topping off your gas tank, adding a stabilizer, and inspecting your belts and strainers, you can rest assured that your boat’s engine can withstand several months in storage.

  • Quick Tips for Easy Downsizing

    Downsizing can be a major transition for any member of your family. In this video, you will receive some tips that will help your loved one throughout the process of downsizing. To keep from getting overwhelmed, you will want to take the time to make a detailed inventory of all of the items that are currently in the home. Large or sentimental items that cannot be brought to the new space can be safely housed at a storage unit in Mountain View.

    With services from a storage rental company , you will have many different storage options available for your home. By relying on the services of a secure storage facility, you will be able to obtain the additional space that you will need throughout the downsizing process.

  • How Self-Storage Can Help You Get Organized at Home

    You may think your home has plenty of room for all of your possessions, but you may find that self-storage near Mountain View can help significantly while organizing your home. By renting a storage unit , you have a safe and protected space for all of your extra furniture, seasonal clothes, and important documents. self - storage

    Store College Students’ Belongings

    When your children head off to college, you may be left with a couple rooms full of unused furniture, clothes, knickknacks, and decorations. Instead of letting this collect dust in your home, pack all of these items safely to be stored in your storage rental. Self-storage is easily accessible, so when your children return from college, either permanently or for an extended break, they can retrieve their items whenever they want. Using college storage is another way to keep your children’s possessions safe until they have a house or family of their own to furnish with their childhood memories.

    Store Seasonal Clothes and Decorations

    Instead of letting clothes clutter your dressers and closets, keep them stored by their season. As each season turns, you can easily return to your storage unit and switch out a container of winter clothes for spring clothes, or vice versa. The same goes for seasonal decorations. Many people love decorating for the winter holidays, but they have no convenient place to keep their decorations the rest of the year. The longer these items are not put into storage, the longer they will clutter up your house.

    Store Important Documents

    You are supposed to keep tax documents for a certain number of years. Mortgage information, bills, and any other important documents must also be kept for a certain number of years. Even though you rarely need these items, they need to be accessible at times, and that is where self-storage comes in handy. You can organize your office by packing your documents in a secured document container and placing them in your storage rental. This will go a long way toward decluttering and organizing your home.

  • Taping Boxes 101

    Sturdy boxes are essential for any move. As you are packing your belongings for placement in a storage unit near Palo Alto , you will want to make sure that your boxes are taped and secured properly. In this video, you will take a close look at the process of taping moving boxes. To save time and frustration as you are taping boxes, you can use a tape dispenser. The tape dispenser will ensure that the tape adheres to the seam of the box and creates a strong bond.

    A facility offering storage rental can help you locate all of the supplies you will need for moving your belongings into storage or across the country. With assistance from a company that specializes in storage units, you can complete your moving process quickly and easily. For answers to your questions about self storage, be sure to get in touch with a storage unit facility in your area.

  • How to Judge the Security Features of a Storage Facility

     

    A temporary storage unit can provide you with valuable space during your next transition. When you are choosing a storage rental company near Palo Alto , you will want to make sure that your storage options include high quality security features. With advanced security and safety systems, your storage rental company will be able to provide you with total assurance that your valuable belongings are protected from theft and harm. If you are gearing up to rent a storage unit, be sure to read on to learn more about how to judge the security features of a storage facility. storage - facility

    Alarm Systems

    One of the most important security features for any storage unit is a quality alarm system. A security alarm will deter burglars, and will also notify the proper authorities immediately when a break-in takes place. As you are considering renting a storage unit, you may want to ask your storage company about what type of alarm system they have installed in their facility.

    Video Surveillance

    Video surveillance is another must for any quality storage unit facility. Since there are typically many people coming and going from a storage facility throughout the course of a given day, a video surveillance system will allow the security personnel at your facility to keep track of who enters and leaves. Additionally, in the unfortunate event that a crime occurs at a storage facility, video surveillance will provide valuable assistance towards identifying and apprehending the criminal.

    Advanced Locks

    Finally, you will also want to evaluate the quality and condition of the locks that are installed throughout the storage unit facility. For example, you may want to seek out a storage facility that offers password or passkey access to each individual storage unit. With a passkey access system, you can rest assured that you are the only person who has access to your stored belongings. Additionally, you may also want to determine whether your facility has secure padlocks or other physical locking mechanisms.

  • Self-Storage: The Smart Choice for Students

    The average college dorm room or apartment doesn’t provide much room for storage. As a result, you will probably not be able to keep all of your personal possessions in your room or apartment with you when you attend college. This doesn’t mean that you can’t bring them with you to college, though! Instead of leaving them behind at home, you can store items in a storage unit located nearby. Here is why you should consider renting space at a self-storage facility in Palo Alto. student self storage palo alto

    You won’t have to bring all of your possessions back home at the end of every school year.

    At the end of every school year, you are required to move out of your dorm room and take all of your belongings back home. This can be a huge hassle for you, especially if you live far from campus. Rather than moving your items back and forth several times over the course of your college career, why not rent a storage unit that will serve as the perfect place to store your belongings? It will cut down on the moving you need to do at the beginning and end of every school year.

    You will give yourself more space to study and relax in your dorm room or apartment.

    If you bring too many items to school with you and try to make them fit into your dorm room or apartment, you will be forced to sacrifice some of the precious space you have. College dorm rooms and apartments usually aren’t that big to begin with, so it will have an impact on your ability to use your room or apartment. By investing in a self-storage unit, you will give yourself the space you need.

    You will give yourself a space to safely keep your valuable possessions.

    Storing valuable possessions in a dorm room or apartment is never a good idea. Thefts take place on college campuses all the time, so if you have items that are especially important to you, you should keep them locked away in a secure storage unit at all times.

  • 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

  • Do You Need Self-Storage Insurance?

    There are many reasons to use a self-storage unit in Mountain View . Self-storage units are a great space to store items that you don’t have room for at home, when children are away at college, or in between moves. 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 self-storage unit for the first time may be unfamiliar with whether or not they should take out additional insurance for the storage unit. In many cases, your existing homeowners or renter’s insurance already includes any items in a storage unit rental. It is important to check your policy to ensure you are covered. If you aren’t or you don’t have insurance, ask your storage unit facility for more information. To guarantee the safety of your items in storage, find a facility that offers additional security.

    Self Storage in Mountain view

  • 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

  • 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

  • The Benefits of an On-Site Storage Manager

    Life is full of complications, so it is nice when your self-storage facility in Palo Alto can simplify things. When your storage unit rental has an on-site storage manager, you can store your belongings with ease. The on-site manager will be available to answer your questions as well as offer peace of mind that your storage will be safe. If you are looking for a storage facility for your belongings, continue on for a look at the benefits of an on-site storage manager.

    Although a storage facility seems like a straightforward place of business, there is much behind the scenes work to take care of. An on-site storage manager is beneficial because he or she can be available to answer any questions that potential customers might have. If you are wondering how to access your belongings, how long you can keep your self-storage unit, or what types of security measures are in place to keep your things safe, the on-site storage manager can offer you all of the appropriate information. An on-site storage manager will also be qualified to deal with any problems or concerns that you might have. The on-site manager adds a more personal element to self-storage units.

    storage facility in palo alto