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  • Things to Consider Before Renting a Storage Unit

     

    Have you ever rented a storage unit? They’re an excellent solution for storing things either short or long-term, and they’re secure and convenient. If this is your first time renting one, there are some things you should know.

    • First, let’s talk about how storage units work, because the process is typically similar regardless of your storage company. You find a storage facility near you, and sign a contract to secure a unit within that space for a specified amount of time. Some companies have a three-month minimum requirement, while most others rent units on a month-to-month basis. You’ll need government-issued ID to rent the unit, like a driver’s license, military ID, passport, or state ID. Read your contract thoroughly before you sign it, so you make sure you’re clear on the terms. For instance, you’ll need to know things like when your payments are due and how much notice you’ll need to give before moving out of your unit.
    • Rules for storage units are basically common sense. You can’t live in your storage unit or conduct business there, and you’ll be restricted in terms of what kinds of items you can store. Essentially, nothing hazardous to your unit or the units around you can be stored in a storage unit, nor can anything illegal.
    • There are a few different reasons people rent storage units. Some people need seasonal storage of things like holiday decorations or sports gear. Others need temporary storage, during a move or a renovation. Sometimes, people who are decluttering or downsizing need a place to store things, and sometimes when a family member comes to stay for a while, extra space is needed to store what used to be stored in the guest room. College students often store their dorm room furnishings over the summer, and members of the military use self-storage when they’re deployed. People often choose self-storage for a car, boat, or RV.
    • There are two different types of storage. Full-service storage involves a company that will pick up a customer’s belongings and transport them to the storage unit. Often, customers can request a pickup or a return on a smartphone app, which is very convenient. Full-service storage facilities take pictures to document what you’re storing and create an online inventory list. Self-storage is a more popular option because it’s more affordable but still safe and secure. Self-storage customers take their things to the storage unit themselves, and pick things up when they need them.
    • Before you rent a storage unit, consider your needs carefully. What do you need to store? Do you need climate control? What size unit do you need? Self-storage units typically come in at least five sizes: 5’x5’, 5’x10’, 10’x10’, 10’ by 15’, and 15’ by 20’. The size you need will be based on how much you need to store, and you can find online calculators to help you estimate the appropriate size.
    • Do you need indoor, outdoor, or climate controlled storage? Indoor storage units are sometimes climate-controlled and sometimes not. Outdoor storage units are covered and locked, with drive-up access. They’re good for large items and vehicles, but indoor storage is better for anything valuable or fragile. A climate-controlled storage unit is best for storing clothing, furniture, and anything else you want to protect from extreme temperatures, mold, and mildew.
    • Assess the amenities before deciding on a storage unit. How accessible will your storage unit be? Some facilities offer 24-hour access, while others are closed on certain days, like Sundays or holidays. It’s important to find a facility with hours that are convenient for you. You’ll also want to make sure the facility you choose is secure. Is there in-person surveillance? How safe and secure is the facility? Pay attention to the location and the lighting, and make sure you feel safe on the property.
    • Prepare your things before you store them. Acquaint yourself with the rules and restrictions about what you can store before you pack up your things. Then take the time to create a detailed list of everything you’re storing. Taking inventory can help you remember what you’ve got in storage, and it can be useful if you ever need to file an insurance claim. Clean all items before placing them in storage, and disassemble furniture to make better use of your storage space. Pack everything carefully in high-quality boxes, cushioning it as you would for a move, and label everything clearly. Place items strategically so that you’ll be able to find things easily and nothing will be damaged.
    • Consider insurance. Having your items properly insured will give you the peace of mind that comes with knowing that you’re protected in case of breakage or theft. This does not necessarily mean, though, that you need to purchase storage insurance. While many storage facilities offer affordable self-storage insurance options, you may already be covered by your homeowners or renters insurance.

    When you’re ready to rent a self-storge unit, choose Pouch Self Storage. We’ve been operating mini-storage facilities since 1979 and we’re committed to keeping our clients’ belongings safe. Founded by John Yelland, who hails from Australia, Pouch Self Storage is named in honor of the kangaroo’s pouch- nature’s safe and secure storage spot. We’re an industry leader in design, building, and maintenance of self-storage facilities, and we strive to give our occupants the most advanced security systems available. At our nine Southern California facilities, you’ll find state-of-the-art computer monitoring systems that allow our self-storage managers to monitor the opening and closing of every storage unit door, 24 hours a day. For more information, call (800) 378-4598 or contact us through our website.

  • How to Move Out of a Storage Unit

    Waist up portrait of handsome bearded man loading cart with cardboard boxes into self storage unit, copy space

    Keeping some of your things in self-storage is extremely convenient, but it’s not typically a permanent solution to storage problems. Most self-storage facilities offer contracts on a month-to-month basis, and there’s good reason for that. People store their things because they want to clear clutter temporarily to sell a house, they need to store furniture when remodeling, they’re in the middle of a move, and many other reasons that don’t involve keeping the storage unit for the long term. When you’re ready to clear out your storage unit, here are some tips for managing the process smoothly.

    • Give advance notice of your move. Typically, storage facilities require a call or written notice to inform them of your intention to vacate the storage unit. Make sure you know your facility’s policy, so you don’t need to pay for time you weren’t using your unit.
    • Decide where your belongings are going. Before you pull all of your things out of storage and bring them to your home, make sure you have a place for everything. One great way to do this is to visit the storage unit before you start taking things out and take pictures of everything that’s there. You can then look at these pictures once you get home and make a plan for all of the items.
    • Bring a big enough vehicle to move everything. Don’t waste trips running back and forth with a too-small vehicle. You might need to rent a truck or van for a day, but it’s well worth it. If any of your items are heavy, bring someone to help you transport them.
    • Leave the space clean. It’s usually required for tenants to clean out their storage units before leaving. This is not as daunting as it may sound; typically, it just means removing all of your things and sweeping.
    • Take your lock with you. It’s easy to forget a little thing like that, but it’s important to unlock the unit and remove your lock, so that the storage facility staff will be able to access the unit.
    • Let management know you’ve gone. Once you’ve removed all of your things, confirm your exit with the facility’s manager before you leave.

    Now you know how to move out, but if you ever need to move your things back into a storage facility, choose Pouch Self Storage. We’ve been operating mini-storage facilities since 1979 and we’re committed to keeping our clients’ belongings safe. Founded by John Yelland, who hails from Australia, Pouch Self Storage is named in honor of the kangaroo’s pouch- nature’s safe and secure storage spot. We’re an industry leader in design, building, and maintenance of self-storage facilities, and we strive to give our occupants the most advanced security systems available. At our nine Southern California facilities, you’ll find state-of-the-art computer monitoring systems that allow our self-storage managers to monitor the opening and closing of every storage unit door, 24 hours a day. For more information, call (800) 378-4598 or contact us through our website.

  • Temporary Housing Options for the Next Time You Move

    Moving can be stressful, and it’s often complicated. There are many reasons people may need temporary housing during a move, whether it’s because they haven’t found new housing, or the new home isn’t ready for occupancy. If you’re in the position of finding stopgap housing, we have some suggestions for where you might want to consider staying until you can get into your permanent home.

    • Rent until you’re able to buy. You can find a variety of rental homes on the market, with leases that run for 12-24 months or simply go on a month-to-month basis. Renting a house can be a great option if you are new to the area and want to get the “lay of the land” before committing to a home purchase. Just make sure you read your lease carefully before you sign.
    • Consider a vacation rental. Airbnb and VRBO are examples of sites that allow you to rent a home temporarily, as a short-term or long-term vacation home. These are typically fully furnished, so you won’t need to bring many things with you.
    • Stay with someone you know. If you have friends or family members in the area, it may be worthwhile to discuss the possibility of staying with them while you find a place to live. Make sure you’re on the same page about expectations and how long you’re planning on staying.
    • Book yourself into an extended stay hotel. Extended stay hotels can be affordable options, providing long-term accommodations, usually with a bed, living space, and kitchenette. As a bonus, you may enjoy hotel amenities like cleaning service, internet access, on-site laundry and gym, and a breakfast buffet.
    • Inquire about corporate housing. If you are moving for work, talk to your company about corporate housing. Many times, large companies either rent or own furnished homes or apartments for employee use. If yours doesn’t, ask about reimbursement for relocation expenses.

    Of course, once you’ve decided where you’ll stay, what can you do with all of your stuff? If you rent an unfurnished home, of course, you’ll take your things with you. Often, however, people choose to rent a home that’s smaller than their previous house and their future home. If that’s your situation, you may still need to find a place to keep some of your things while you’re waiting to move into your permanent abode.

    • You can get the moving company to store your things. If you’re hiring a full-service mover to transport your household goods to a new location, it’s wise to inquire about their ability to store things for you.
    • Self-storage is often the most convenient option. Self-storage is the best option for a lot of people, because it allows you to store your items securely, yet have access to your items whenever you need it. Additionally, storage units can typically be rented on a month-to-month basis, which is convenient if you don’t know how long you’ll be in temporary housing.

    If you’re looking for self-storage in Southern California, choose Pouch Self Storage. We’ve been operating mini-storage facilities since 1979 and we’re committed to keeping our clients’ belongings safe. Founded by John Yelland, who hails from Australia, Pouch Self Storage is named in honor of the kangaroo’s pouch- nature’s safe and secure storage spot. We’re an industry leader in design, building, and maintenance of self-storage facilities, and we strive to give our occupants the most advanced security systems available. At our nine Southern California facilities, you’ll find state-of-the-art computer monitoring systems that allow our self-storage managers to monitor the opening and closing of every storage unit door, 24 hours a day. For more information, call (800) 378-4598 or contact us through our website.

  • A Letter To Our Tenants in Response to COVID-19

    To all Pouch Self Storage Customers,
    In response to the Coronavirus outbreak and the resulting mandates from state and federal authorities, Pouch Self Storage Centers is abiding by the CDC recommendations and implementing social distancing.
    We are however going out of our way to help our customers as best as we can. In order to accommodate social distancing due to the COVID-19 virus, the following facility hours have been modified until further notice to 8 am – 5 pm daily.
    We are doing our best to flatten the curve and have limited staff onsite. In order for us to accommodate our customer’s needs, while still maintaining the regulations of safety, all employees are to have ZERO contact with customers while still managing the facility and protecting our customer’s belongings.
    You can see available units and rent through our online portal at Pouchselfstorage.com
    Sincerely,
    Pouch Self Storage
    marketing@pouchselfstorage.com

  • Examining the Business Benefits of Document Shredding

    The idea of a paperless office is an enviable one, but in reality, it’s hard to achieve. Businesses will always have to deal with reams of printed materials. Many of those printed documents will contain sensitive information, like customer data or financial information. Protect your business and your customers by signing up for secure, onsite document shredding .

    Security and Peace of Mind
    The No. 1 benefit of business document shredding is security. You and your customers can enjoy peace of mind knowing sensitive information won’t fall into the wrong hands. After all, identity theft is among the most common white collar crimes, and it’s growing at an alarming rate. With an onsite document shredding service, you won’t have to worry about criminals stealing information that will cost your customers and ruin your business’ reputation.

    Convenience and Affordability
    Running a business requires long hours at the office. It’s hard work to keep track of everything that needs to be done. And no matter how much revenue your business brings in, overhead is always a consideration when making business decisions. Onsite document shredding won’t require any extra work on your part, and it’s very affordable. All you’ll have to do is place documents to be shredded in the locked storage bin to await destruction.

    Eco-Friendly Disposal
    It’s technically possible to recycle non-shredded documents that contain sensitive information, but doing so wouldn’t be safe. There’s a greater risk that identity thieves will get their hands on it. When you choose onsite document shredding, your safely destroyed documents can be brought to a recycling facility. You’ll be doing your part to help make the Earth a little greener.

    State and Federal Compliance
    Depending on what type of business you have, you may be subject to multiple state and federal regulations regarding document retention and destruction. Law offices and healthcare clinics are just a couple of examples. Professional document shredding will help your business stay in compliance with document destruction requirements.

    Onsite document shredding is available at POUCH Self Storage , along with the secure shredding of data DVDs, CDs, recording tape, and floppy disks. For storage options in Lake Forest and San Juan, call our office at (800) 378-4598.

  • Reserve Your Free Moving Truck Today!

    Renting a storage unit from POUCH means you’ll get a great price on a secure self-storage space that is just right for your needs. Did you know it also means you can move your items with a free moving truck? Our We Move You FREE program makes moving into your storage unit as easy and affordable as possible.

    To reserve a free moving truck, you must have a confirmed reservation for a new storage space. Simply contact your storage facility to set up a date and time for the truck. We provide the truck, driver, and gas free of charge. The driver is not allowed to assist you in moving your items, but the truck comes equipped with an appliance dolly and 10 moving pads at no extra cost.

    Free moving trucks are available within a 15-mile radius of your POUCH Self-Storage facility. To reserve a truck or learn more about storage units in Lake Forest, call (800) 378-4598.

  • Maximize Your Retail Space by Storing Extra Inventory

    When you have a retail store, every inch of space counts. That means you have to get clever about the way you manage your inventory. Fortunately, business storage can help you keep the items your customers need without making your space unmanageable.

    This video offers advice for maximizing your retail space. Carefully monitoring sales and making sure you’re not wasting space on items that don’t move can help. Using a storage unit to hold extra inventory will also ease your space constraints.

    Get additional space for your inventory by renting a storage unit at POUCH Self Storage . We even offer a FREE moving truck to make transferring your goods easier. Contact our storage facility in Lake Forest by calling (800) 378-4598.

  • Getting Ready to Sublet Your Apartment

    There are lots of great reasons to sublet your apartment, from covering your rent when you’re going to be traveling for a few months to moving to a new place without breaking your current lease. There are plenty of things to consider when you sublet your apartment, including what items you need to move to a storage unit before the new tenant moves in. Keep these things in mind as you prepare for your sublet.

    Check with Your Landlord
    Many people who sublet their apartments try to do it without getting an OK from their landlords. This risky game could be very costly in the end. Some leases prohibit subletting completely, while others require sublet tenants to go through a credit check. It’s a good idea to work with your landlord during subletting, so you don’t open yourself up to expensive fines for violating your lease agreement.

    Pack Up Your Valuables
    When you’re going to have a tenant in your home, it’s a good idea to make sure that your valuables move out with you. Although you should of course remove valuable jewelry and expensive electronics, but don’t overlook items that are simply valuable to you. If you have a set of glasses or some pots and pans you do not want to risk getting damaged or removed, pack them up. Fortunately, you don’t have to cart your good stuff around. A secure storage unit will keep your items safe until you need them again.

    Set Up Clear Lines of Communication
    When you sublet your apartment, you’re still ultimately responsible for what happens there. Prevent communication breakdowns from occurring by setting a schedule for how and when you want to check in with the new tenant. You may want to do weekly calls, ask for a monthly email on a certain date, or request to stop by at period intervals to check the place out. Keeping the lines of communication open will help to make your sublet a success.

    POUCH Self Storage can help you get you get your items out of your home before your sublet with our self-storage units , available in a range of sizes. Find out how to rent a storage unit in Lake Forest by calling (800) 378-4598.

  • Boat Storage 101

    Proper storage is one of the most important parts of maintaining your boat. In addition to finding storage facilities that allow for boat storage, prepping your boat to be put away is also essential. Here’s what boat owners need to know about safe storage.

    Avoid Storing Your Boat in Water
    Although many docks offer storage, the water is not a good choice for long-term boat storage. It may seem counterintuitive, but your boat should only be in water when it is in use. Otherwise, the water will constantly put pressure on your boat, which increases the wear and tear and makes more frequent repairs necessary. Storing your boat at a storage facility is not only cheaper than dock storage but also safer for your boat.

    Clean Your Boat Before Storing
    Cleaning may sound like the last thing you want to do after a day on the water, but putting a dirty boat into storage can cause damage. Further, you’ll be glad your boat is clean when you get it out for use. Scrub the deck, topsides, cockpit, hull, and all other compartments. After washing the boat, fill up the tank to prevent condensation from forming, and charge all your batteries or disconnect them from their cables. After a thorough cleaning, dry the boat completely before storing it, so that moisture damage doesn’t occur.

    Invest in a Cover
    Although people often store boats without covers, covering the boat is the best way to protect it from the elements. Covers also keep your boat safe from debris and dirt buildup. Ideally, get a custom-fitted cover to give your boat the best possible protection. Your boat cover should have supports so that you can prop it up. This will reduce the risk of water settling around the bottom of your boat.

    Store your boat with confidence at POUCH Self Storage. Our storage facilities have 24-hour video surveillance and keypad entry for the utmost security for all of your belongings. Find out how to rent boat storage in Lake Forest by calling (800) 378-4598.

  • Comparing Covered and Open RV Storage

    RV storage is an issue most owners will have to deal with eventually. There are multiple ways to store your RV, but two of the most popular are covered and open. Here is a look at how these two kinds of RV storage compare.

    Open RV storage is essentially a large parking lot within a storage facility. It gives you the benefit of vehicle storage within a secured environment, but open storage does not provide any protection from the elements. Covered storage allows you to park your RV on a secured lot underneath a roof that provides protection from the sun, rain, and winter weather. Covered storage is not fully enclosed. Depending on the climate in which you are storing your RV, both kinds of storage can be acceptable.

    POUCH Self Storage offers both types of RV storage and is happy to answer your questions so you can select the right option for your RV. Learn more about vehicle storage in Rancho Cucamonga and Fountain Valley by calling (800) 378-4598.