Starting an RV and Boat Storage Rental in Tacoma WA Boats and RVs are vacation staples that enable vacationers to explore picturesque attractions and escape the hustle and bustle of the city. This is why for someone looking for residual income, RV and boat storage services are the way to go. This is because there...
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Storage rental services are ideal for those who wish to store items for both short-term and long-term periods. Even if it is your first time to consider a storage rental service, doing a thorough research will help you find the right option. There are some basic questions you need to ask so you can find...
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How to Invest in Self-storage No matter how hard people deny it, there’s a bit of a hoarder in everyone. Somehow, a lot of people just cannot resist the urge to buy stuff and hold on to them for a long time. Even when some of these items have already gone beyond their usefulness, they...
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Marketing a self storage rental for businesses and organizations is often done using online channels and general advertising practices these days. But, there are other ways to make it known that such self storage rentals exist. How to Market a Storage Rental for Businesses and Organizations Here are some great examples of what can be...
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Having a self-storage space for large family heirlooms, recreational activity gears, or any excess furniture that are taking a lot of space in your house seems an ideal and trendy approach these days. Over 50, 000 self-storage facilities are budding all over the US. Here’s something to remember though, when it comes to renting storage...
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The self-storage industry has boomed in the last few decades. In 2009, the United States had about 46,000 storage facilities out of 58,000 units across the world. The number keeps increasing as more and more people opt to store their personal belongings or business products in rented spaces instead of stacking them in the basement,...
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Just like any other equipment that you invest in for business and commercial purposes, your mobile homes, RVs, boats, and similar vehicles are investments that need to be protected. They cost a lot of money to procure and it is essential for you to maximize their use and keep them in great working order for...
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When deciding to rent a self-storage unit, there are important factors you need to consider, including your space requirements and the cost. After all, there are times when a basic self-storage unit will not be enough to store all your valuables. Another important factor to consider is the temperature. There are climate controlled storage units...
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The use of self-storage units is gaining in popularity these days, and there are different reasons that contribute to the growing popularity. Whatever the reason, self-storage allows people to store their important belongings safely and at an affordable price. Following are the most common reasons people use self-storage facilities: Lack of Storage Space at Home...
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Boats and RVs are vacation staples that enable vacationers to explore picturesque attractions and escape the hustle and bustle of the city. This is why for someone looking for residual income, RV and boat storage services are the way to go. This is because there are communities that may restrict the parking of RVs and boats in driveways and streets. In Tacoma, this is an excellent opportunity that self-storage owners should take advantage of.
However, it is essential to arm yourself with knowledge so you can reap the rewards of boat and RV storage. One thing you need to consider is the type of storage you are going to offer and the services you are going to provide.
Factors to consider when starting RV and boats storage rental services
Construction
Tacoma’s economics are vital factors to take into account when deciding on the type of services and storage to offer. Large vehicle structures come in three basic configurations with the canopy as the simplest as it only has a roof. The manger style is the second configuration, which is enclosed on three sides. The third configuration is an enclosed individual unit.
More often than not, starters have a notion that building a canopy or manager unit is less expensive, but looking at the bigger picture will make you realize that the three configurations need additional strength and deeper footings.
The width, depth, and height will also be the determining factors for the type of boat and RV storage units you should consider. In addition to the vehicle, space should also be capable of accommodating additional fixtures, such as tow bars, air-conditioning units, motorcycle racks, and much more. On average, 12 feet is the minimum unit width and 45 to 50 feet is the maximum depth. The construction cost must not be set aside as it is also an important factor.
The configuration will have a significant impact on the tax assessment. Fire sprinklers can also increase construction costs and operational expenses. Even if you only consider canopies, it may cost more as a certain size may also require sprinklers. Without a doubt, the construction is the greatest expense when putting up RV and boat storage. If you intend to increase the size, you will need to anticipate the increased construction cost.
Services
Once you have decided on the configuration for your boat and RV storage, you will also have to think of the products and services you will offer that will be in conjunction with your business. The products and services you will offer will depend on your customers. There are vacationers who prefer to spend their vacation the best way possible and a more convenient facility will not only earn tenants but also keep them.
Electricity and water are deemed to be the most desired and preferred services. Water comes with the service and customers do not usually pay extra fees for it. On the other hand, electricity can either be offered for a flat rate or metered. Aside from these utilities, propane stations, wash, dump, and valued commodities such as glass wipes, ice, coffee, etc., are also popular add-ons.
Before you decide what products to offer, you need to consider the potential income and initial cost vs. expense and risk. If you plan to offer vehicle-prep services, which will involve accessing a tenant’s RV or boat, then keep in mind that this also involves additional legal responsibilities and insurance.
Security
Security is paramount for storage rentals. Just like products and services, the security features will also depend on your customers. The perimeter fencing is the basic feature you should add to your storage. It can either be solid block walls or chain link and razor.
If your storage service offers 24-hour access, you need key-coded entry gates and camera surveillance. As much as possible, install a camera in a location where it can easily capture license plates during the entrance and exit. Proximity card readers can also be added if tenants have stored vehicles. Storage rental service owners may even take security to the next level by opting for more sophisticated alarm and security systems.
Legal Consideration
The requirements and challenges that come with operating a storage facility for RV and boat no longer come as a surprise. However, to ensure that you will have a smooth and problem-free operation, you need to take note of the legal requirements of vehicle storage. The legalities of vehicle storage differ from traditional self-storage.
Since boats and vehicles are titled property, the storage owner’s lien rights will be affected. If the properties are not zoned for storage use, it can also be a big problem especially if it is outdoors. You should also consider local ordinances even if outside parking has been allowed in the area. If you want to start outside storage, check the local zoning ordinances and restrictions to prevent governmental intervention.
Rental Agreement
It is common for most rental agreements to have expectations from tenants to store personal property. However, there are rental agreements that do not recognize the car, boat, and RV storage, and liabilities for this type of storage may be left unrecognized. For self-storage owners who have decided to accommodate vehicles, amending leases should be essential as this addresses liabilities and even reduces the occurrence of legal issues.
Tenants must also provide specific information to the storage facility including describing the property being stored. The description should include the vehicle’s make, model, color, year, serial number, and license number. If a tenant fails to pay for the storage fee, the storage operator will be forced to sell the property being stored. It is also required for the facility operators to obtain information about lien claims and security interests.
Knowing the cost, special requirements, and legal responsibilities of operating RV and boat storage facility will give you greater peace of mind. Regardless of the services, products, and level of security you offer, you need to keep your tenants or customers in mind. Boat and RV storage facility is meant to accommodate vehicles while also giving tenants more time to enjoy their vacation.
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There are various reasons you may need to store your vehicle for some time. You may be going on an extended vacation, or you are in the military and you are getting ready for an overseas deployment. Likewise, you may want to store your convertible for the winter, and avail of vehicle storage Tacoma providers offer.
Whatever your reason, you cannot just leave your vehicle sitting in a garage without preparing it, or parking it out on the street for a long period of time. It is not unreasonable to expect a damaged engine, punctured tires, dead battery, and find a family of rats establishing domicile under your hood if you do this.
The following are some important tips that you can keep in mind when preparing to store your car for the long haul. These can help preserve your engine’s useful life, and make sure you can get your car back on the road in no time once you come back.
Make Sure It Is Clean
While some people may think that washing the car before storing it may not be necessary, it is nevertheless an important step. Bird droppings or water stains left on the exterior can wreak havoc on the paint. Clean the fender undersides as well as the wheels to remove grease, tar, or mud. Give your car a generous wax coating for good measure.
Keep the Vehicle Covered
Your car is best stored in a garage to keep it safe from the elements. The temperature is likewise stable. Consider putting your vehicle in one of the public storage facilities near you.
Change Oil
This step may not be warranted if you are parting with your car for only a week or so. However, if you need to store the car for at least 30 days, you need to change the oil. According to car manufacturers, used engine oil contains contaminants that may damage your engine.
Keep the Battery Charged
When left unattended for a long stretch of time, your battery will lose its charge eventually. Ask someone to start your vehicle every other week, and if possible, drive it even for just 15 minutes each time. This way, the battery will maintain its charge and keep the various components like the engine lubricated properly. The air-con should also be run from time to time to keep the air quality fresh, and the parts in good condition. If you can’t find someone to start your car regularly while you’re away, you can have the negative battery cable disconnected or you can buy a battery tender.
Leave the Parking Brake Alone
While the habit of using the parking brake is normally a great idea, it is not so when leaving your car in a vehicle storage Tacoma facility. If there is constant contact between the brake pads and rotors, they will tend to fuse. You can instead buy a tire stopper or chock to keep the vehicle from moving.
Top the Tank Off
When storing the vehicle for more than a month, make sure that the gas tank is filled. This way, moisture won’t accumulate inside the tank, and the seals will not dry out. To prevent the build-up of ethanol, use a fuel stabilizer that will likewise protect your engine from rust, gum, and varnish for up to a year.
Avoid Getting Flat Spots
The tires must be inflated to the appropriate pressure. They can develop flat spots when left idle for a long time as the vehicle’s weight presses down on the footprints of the tires. The process happens at a quicker pace in cold temperatures, and with vehicles that come with low-profile or performance tires. Flat spots can become permanent, in which case, tire replacement may be necessary. Just having someone drive the car occasionally can help prevent flat spots. An alternative is to put the vehicle on jack stands with the wheels off.
Keep Critters Away
By keeping your car in a storage facility, it will be kept warm and dry. However, these same features make a garaged vehicle enticing to rats. Your car offers a lot of good hiding places for critters, as well as a lot of things to munch on. Cover as many gaps as possible where rodents can enter like the air intake and exhaust pipe. You can use steel wool for this. Then, spread some mothballs or peppermint-dipped cotton swabs along the car’s perimeter. Rats hate the smell.
Keep Your Auto Insurance Up-to-Date
Don’t think that just because your car will be in a vehicle storage Tacoma facility, it means you can cancel your car insurance. While you may be able to save some money initially, chances are your insurance provider will increase your premium due to the coverage gap. This may cost you more money over the long term. The rate increase varies based on your place of residence and your insurance provider. Thus, it is best that you call your insurance company to find out what your various options are.
Getting Your Car Back on the Road
Once you get back to your car, you would want to make sure that it is still roadworthy. Here are some things you need to check before taking your car out of the storage facility.
Windshield Wipers – Check if the wipers have brittle or cracked rubber.
Under the Hood – Check for traces of rodent infestation. Find out if there are chewed hoses, belts, and wires; and if there are nests left behind. If the air intake and muffler are covered, remove the covers before starting the car.
Tires – Check the tire pressure, and if necessary, inflate your tires to the ideal specifications.
Breaks – Rust usually accumulates on the rotors. However, it usually goes away once you start driving your car.
Battery Cable – If you disconnected the battery cable before storing the car, be sure to reconnect it. Likewise, don’t forget to clean the battery terminals.
Fluids – Make sure the fluids are at the ideal levels, and there are no leaks.
Be sure to keep the tips provided in this post in mind. This way, your car will be in good condition once you leave it in a storage garage, and when you get back to pick it up.
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Self-storage facilities are getting to be more and more in demand these days. For various reasons, people have growing needs to store their belongings in a safe place. Sometimes, the reason is quite simple, such as having too much stuff that could not fit into their home. Whether you have too many pieces of furniture, memorabilia, books, or clothes, you can find affordable self-storage in Tacoma WA to keep your valuables and help with providing more space in your home.
Normally, on a monthly basis, you are renting a specific space with self-storage to keep your things. Compared to a full-service storage unit, where someone else has the say on how things are stored, and you only have limited access to your things, a self-storage facility provides you complete control over what you store in the place and how you arrange your things.
The flexibility of a self-storage unit is one of its biggest advantages. Instead of waiting for somebody to provide you access to your things, you can come and go as you please. Moreover, you can remove items from your unit and add new things, as long as they would fit inside.
Reasons for Using Self Storage
Here are some of the common reasons why people use self-storage:
1. Downsizing – some people move into a smaller home and need space to store their extra possessions.
2. Temporary move – you can use a self-storage facility when you do not want to take all your things with you when you are staying at a place temporarily. One reason for the temporary move is the renovation of a part of the whole house. You may also be assigned to work in a place far from home for a few months or so.
3. Better opportunities – if you are moving into another city or state to look for a better lifestyle or better opportunities, you may need self-storage so that relocation does not result in any kind of loss.
4. Storing things for students – students need storage space to keep some of the things that they do not need for the time being.
5. Storing old files – some working professionals use self-storage to keep their old documents and other reference materials that they could still use later on.
6. People living in an area prone to natural disasters – there are areas that are frequently hit by hurricanes, floods, etc., so they need a safe place to store their valuables.
7. Business owners – some business owners have seasonal products. Self-storage can be useful to store inventory that they do not need at the moment.
8. Elderly parent moving into the home or a child returning from college – some people choose to keep appliances and furniture in a self-storage facility to make room for another family member, instead of moving to a bigger home.
No matter what the reason may be, the number of people who use self-storage units is consistently growing. These reasons show that people of any age group need the service to have ample space for things that are important to them.
Finding an Affordable Facility
Some storage spaces are expensive, so those who are not earning much can find it difficult to get their own. This is why it is necessary to find a self-storage facility that allows them to acquire a unit based on their needs or an affordable service that does not cost too much. Perhaps you are patient enough to find a unit that is just the right size for your needs because certainly, nobody likes to pay for a larger space that will not be fully utilized.
Once in awhile, self-storage providers have promotional offers to attract more customers and reward their loyal customers for their continued use of their services. You may want to look for these special discounts and other offers to really have affordable storage space.
Tips in Looking for an Affordable Self Storage
The following are some tips to find the best deal for a self-storage space:
• Choose the right size – the sizes of storage spaces vary from small to large and sizes in between. Most of these units have standard sizes, but you can find a company that offers unique sizes.
It is important that you choose the right size because the price is usually based on the size of the unit. Select the right size and store your things efficiently to maximize the space and save money on the monthly rental.
• Insurance – most storage companies require their customers to have insurance while they are renting a unit. Some people do not know about this requirement, and only find out about it when they are about to sign paperwork. There are companies that have their own insurance coverage and may require that you buy from them.
You may save some money by spending some time looking for self-storage insurance coverage before making a deal with your rental unit. If you are covered by a renter or homeowner insurance, you may check with your provider if your policy covers the items you will store in a self-storage facility.
• Avoid rate increase – self-storage companies may increase their rental fee at some point. The increase is minimal, but it would add up when you are renting storage space on a long-term basis. Sometimes, you cannot avoid this increase, but you may still be able to find a company that is less likely to increase their rate. You may do research about the history of the company and you can also check for recommendations online or from the people you know.
Reliable Self Storage
Before paying for a self-storage unit, you must check first if the storage service is reliable. Make sure that the service has the proper safety arrangements. You may also want to check some reviews of previous customers that are posted online. To ensure that you are getting the highest quality of service, it is crucial that you find a reputable company. These are some of the important issues to consider so you can find easy to access, affordable self-storage in Tacoma WA.
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The thing about commercial real estate is that there are different property types that comprise it. One of the fastest-growing areas here is that of self-storage facilities which became popular because of the growing number of people who are in need of excess storage for a variety of household items, or those who are in transition and are therefore in need of a reliable temporary storage solution.
Self-storage has provided homeowners with a reliable and cost-effective alternative to their storage needs, especially those who live in condominiums or apartments where storage space, and living space for that matter, is rather limited. A majority of those who spend on these facilities are people who have things that they do not need at the moment but cannot muster up the courage to throw away.
Because of this behavior, self-storage businesses have boomed across the globe making investing a self-storage facility a rather worthy venture. Billions in dollars of revenues are generated by this industry year in and year out. A number of reality television programs have also resulted from the popularity of self-storage facilities. And although this kind of business model may seem unusual in the world of commercial real estate, there is no discounting the fact that it is a viable money-maker.
The thing about these facilities though, well most of them, is that they are often situated in locations that are not as glamorous as most people would prefer them to be. The advantageous component here is that a large number of consumers can be accommodated at once, tenants pay a small deposit amount (sometimes even zero), and then they are free to leave as soon as they deem necessary. This level of flexibility is one of the things that make self-storage facilities attractive for the average person.
There are two major factors that can be attributed to the growth of such a business model. First, more and more people acquire things that cannot be consumed. Non-perishable items like knick-knacks, toys, furniture, appliances, books, upholstery, and the like can take up a lot of space if owners refuse to donate or throw them away as new items are purchased.
With the current rise in home prices, many homeowners have also downsized to smaller apartments and condominium units which are easier to manage thus resulting to an even smaller amount of workable and usable space for these belongings. The demand for storage remains the same but the available supply has decreased making self-storage facilities even more essential. The market definitely exists and there is profit to be made.
Second, even if the contracts applied to self-storage rental agreements are rather short, there are customers who simply refuse to throw out unnecessary items, clean out their storage spaces, and instead choose to leave things where they are even after the contract has lapsed. Some religiously renew their contracts while others choose to abandon their personal belongings. Based on estimates from several storage facilities, one tenant uses a storage unit for an average of three years. This is great for a business like this.
Because of this, those who make a business out of renting out storage units are protected from lengthy vacancies that often occur in other areas of commercial real estate. And given the short-term contracts, it is much easier for those in the storage solutions business to react should market conditions rapidly shift.
If you want to engage in this kind of business endeavor and feel like you can manage to invest in a self-storage facility then here are some of the things that you should be mindful of in order to succeed.
Always consider the geography of the facility. Most of the time, you will find similar facilities situated within close proximity to one another. See to it that your facility is at least three to five miles away from another business. This ensures that you will get a fair share of the market when you start operating.
Also do your research when it comes to choosing the location as your success will depend on what is known as the trade area. It would be best if your trade area has a modern residential component. This means having more apartments and condominiums within a close range rather than houses and lots.
Even if an area is quite busy if there is an existing facility and if you hear that other businessmen are interested in setting up shop in that area, steer clear of it and find a different place for your building. Even if the demand for storage units is high, an oversaturation of the market can cause any business to decline. You can lose customers with the snap of a finger if your nearby competitor goes so much as to offer an added service that you don’t have, say keycard locks for example.
If you are new to the industry, do consider consulting with a real estate specialist that has had extensive exposure to storage facilities. Be sure to understand everything about it and only jump in when you feel confident about your skills to actually handle such an endeavor. During this time, be patient.
If you choose to invest in an existing facility, your patience will also be tested. Do know that a facility that has had a change of ownership usually takes as much as five years to stabilize in terms of operations and earnings. When your building does start to rake profits, always focus on the economic rather than physical occupancy of the facility. Even if almost all of your storage units have been availed of but you haven’t raised rental prices in years, the economic occupancy will be significantly less compared to the physical attribute.
And of course, always be open to investing in components that will give you an edge over your competition. Customers are not only interested in storage spaces. They also want additional services that will seemingly provide them with more bang for their buck. Add value to your facility by offering enhancements like biometric scanners and proximity cards for added security, climate-control devices to ensure that stored items will be well-preserved, and even mobile apps that will further improve the consumer experience.
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Self-storage space and warehouse facilities are a multimillion-dollar industry all over the world. People continue to rely on these storage facilities to put their excess stuff in. These items could be furniture, old unused files, old clothes, tools, toys, and almost anything you would want to hang on to but have no space in the house to keep it in. Even celebrities have been known to rent a self-storage unit or two.
There are many benefits to renting self-storage space. One of the most obvious use is to free up space in your own home. People used to store things in their garage. When that gets full, they have no choice but to throw their stuff away. Somethings like broken furniture can be thrown away but for those things you want to keep for the future, you can still store them in self-storage spaces.
Another advantage of renting a self-storage space is that it can be safer than your own garage. Some of the more sophisticated self-storage spaces require the use of heavy-duty locks and identifying marks like a fingerprint scan in order to be opened. If you plan on keeping important things like backup copies of your pertinent documents or a beloved painting or an antique then this is the way to go. With these types of self-storage facilities, you can rest assured that no one would be able to get in and out of your space. Highly sophisticated storage spaces also often have temperature control so if you don’t want your things to get molds or warp due to heat then you can rent this kind of storage space. Just be ready to shell out a little bit more as these kinds of self-storage facilities don’t come cheap.
Self-storage space and warehouse can be used to keep your collection. If you are an avid toy collector, for example, you will need space for all your unopened boxes of toys. Highly coveted toys appreciate in value so some collectors hold on to them as long as possible. As their collection increases, so do space the items take up. Rather than keeping them in a place where they could be easily destroyed, i.e. the garage or the attic, a self-storage space can be a better option.
People also use self-storage spaces after they get married or start cohabiting. Prior to cohabiting couples who live in separate apartments normally have their own bed, couch, ref, and other household items. Once they have joined homes they get to have two of everything. The natural thing to do is to sell these items. You can use storage spaces to store these items before you sell them. If you still want to hang on to them even after you have bought a new king size bed for you and your significant other, you can also put them away in storage until the time you need them.
If you are having your house renovated you can store all your stuff in a self-storage space until the renovations are finished and you and your family are ready to move back in. Placing your furniture outside the house or in the garage can damage them as rain and other weather elements do occur. Leaving them outside makes them an easy target for thieves and vandals. Putting them in self-storage spaces saves not just your furniture from being damaged while the renovations are going on but also frees up space in your house so you won’t have to bump into this displaced furniture.
Self-storage spaces are also havened for people who like to hold on to items that remind them of their childhood or of people close to them who have already passed away. They store dollhouses, favorite toys when they were kids, baptismal gowns, and the like. People store keepsakes from times they spent with their departed loved ones and items that remind them of their loved ones.
People operating a home business can also benefit from renting storage space. At home catering businesses for example often provide chairs and tables other than food so they need a place to store these items in until they are ready for use. Some at-home businesses like buying and sell businesses also need storage facilities to store their inventory. If you are just starting and cannot afford to rent a big office or space, then you can try using self-storage spaces to keep all your stuff.
You can also use self-storage spaces to store your boat, ATV, and jet-ski. There are storage facilities as huge as two-car garage spaces so you can easily store something as big as a boat or a jet-ski inside.
If you are planning to move to a different city or get relocated to a different country altogether but you still plan on returning to that place where you left, you can use storage facilities to leave your stuff in while you are away instead of keeping your apartment. Just make sure to keep the payments coming and check on your stuff from time to time whenever you have time or ask a trusted friend or relative to do these things for you. Storage space is cheaper and more economical than keeping your apartment empty for long periods of time. Subletting your apartment might mean someone else will use your house and they might have their own furniture. Store your furniture and other household items in a safe storage facility when you are ready to come back, you can just take them out like you never left.
Renting a self-storage space frees your house of clutter and mess. It can make your house feel “lighter” and less disorganized. As your family grows, so does the mess they make. Use self-storage spaces to put away some of the important things that you really don’t need to have access to immediately. Keep them safe as you keep your house clean and free of clutter too. A clean and organized house is a house you’d feel happy to come home to.
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Storage rental for businesses and organizations have grown increasingly popular over the years. As businesses expand, so does the demand for their products and office requirements. This means buying more office equipment or replacing old ones with newer and more efficient models. So where do the old items go until the business is able to get rid of them? The answer is often in storage facilities.
Storage facilities are spaces being rented out by storage owners to people, business, and organizations that require temporary storage for their belongings. These spaces are rented out on a short term basis usually month to month. Each storage space is secured normally by the renter. This means the renter is the only one with access to the items inside as he is the only one with the lock and key.
Most storage facilities employ roving security personnel to ensure that there are no trespassers in their facility. Keep in mind that while they have roving security, the store owner still won’t be responsible if the items inside the storage are lost or stolen. This can, however, be re-mediated by getting insurance for your belongings. This is important if they are rather valuable.
There are various advantages to storing or renting out space at a storage facility. If you’re not yet convinced you need one, here are some reasons why it’s good to rent a storage space.
1. They’re relatively cheap – renting a space can set you back anywhere between $75-200 a month depending on the size of storage you will need. Most storage facilities rent out space on a month to month basis but there are times when they allow for longer leases. Some storage facilities will even give you a discount for renting out the storage for long periods of time. The cost of building, maintaining, and safekeeping a facility to store some old business files is time-consuming and can cost your business a lot more than renting a storage space.
2. Storage rentals can be used when you are about to move offices – Uprooting a business from one location to another is often complicated. It requires proper planning, good logistics, and sometimes a temporary space where you could put things that cannot be moved to the new location just yet. Storage rentals can solve problems like this. Rent out space for a few days to store your office equipment until such time that you are ready to move them to the new office. Place conference tables and office chairs in storage spaces until your new office is ready to accommodate these items.
3. No need to hire a moving team – some storage facilities would help you move stuff in and out of the facility at no extra cost. Most storage facilities already have a moving van or truck ready to pick up or move your stuff for you. Some even offer boxes and other packing materials ready for use to anyone who rents their facility. The added cost of hiring movers and packing materials, which could sometimes be really expensive, is removed from your operational expense.
4. It can serve as an offsite backup facility – as part of their business continuity plan some business place backup files outside their office to ensure that in case the office gets destroyed or compromised, the backup files will still enable the business to get on with their everyday activity as if nothing happened. Storage facilities of this kind are more sophisticated than regular storage because these are most likely climate-controlled and highly secured. You will most likely pay higher fees for this type of storage. Storage rentals of this caliber sometimes require fingerprint scans so that only authorized renters are able to enter.
5. Storage can be used as temporary storage for excess items – if your office storage facility is at full capacity, you can easily rent a small space to store other items that you cannot hold in the office. This can sometimes happen when there are huge orders from customers or if there is a surplus of products. Just take note of the kinds of things that you can store inside as some storage rental facilities often have a list of things that you can and cannot store with them. If you are manufacturing perishables, for example, most storage facilities will turn you away.
6. Use it to store seasonal items – businesses engaged in selling items that are needed only on special occasions can benefit from storing their wares in storage rental facilities. They can simply bring out these seasonal items once the occasion is nearing and store them away again once it’s finished. Party supplies and craft stores are some of the business that sells seasonal items. Sporting goods that are not in season can also be stored in these facilities until the season starts.
7. Use it to store old office items until you are able to get rid of them – buying new equipment for the office often means that the old equipment needs to be removed or sold. Don’t let old office equipment clutter your office. They can accumulate dust if left out in the open for long. They can also serve as hiding places for pests like mice and cockroaches who love putting up houses in unused office items. You can store old printers, fax machines, computers, and office furniture in temporary storage facilities until the time comes that you are able to dispose of them.
8. Store office supplies – sometimes the best deals come with buying in bulk. Offices often buy office supplies in bulk to save on expenses. When you buy bulk office supplies you will need an area to store these in. Storage rental for businesses and organizations can be used to store excess office supplies. You can leave a few supplies available at the office and just take out what’s needed every couple of months. Just make sure to find a storage rental that’s near your office so that you won’t have to travel far just to get some paper clips.
Whether you are running a small or a big business you’ll sure have some use for a storage facility.
CHECK OTHER POST Why You Need Your Own Self-storage Space
The post Storage rental for businesses and organizations appeared first on Midland Boat RV Storage.
The first consideration for choosing a storage facility for your boat is its size. Smaller boats are easier to store in a shed, garage, or indoor self-storage space. Vessels larger than around twenty feet or so become increasingly more difficult to store, with the very large yachts being confined to marinas, harbor specially designed to accommodate large pleasure craft.
The second is how often you intend to use it. During the summer, you might value ease of access. In the winter, security during long storage might take precedence.
Before choosing a storage facility for your boat, remember that all boats require constant maintenance. This is especially true of wooden boats, which are more vulnerable to mildew or termites in high humidity. Used boats also require special care—even smaller vessels might be safer to store indoors if they are especially old, since they have already endured so much wear and corrosion.
Small Boats
Small boats include kayaks, canoes, and motorized dinghies up to fifteen to twenty feet long. Selecting a storage space could be as easy as hanging the boat upside down from hooks on the side of your shed. Hanging a boat upside down takes advantage of the water-resistant hull, which acts as the boat’s roof. Detach the motor if there is one and drain it of fuel, then store it separately, preferably indoors.
Add some more protection by covering the boat in canvas or tarp. Don’t wrap the covering too tightly, because you want the air to flow and carry evaporating water away from the craft. Ensure a few feet of clearance from the ground for the same reason.
If you intend to use your boat with any regularity, consider storing it in your house or in a shed. Try contriving a place where it could be hung or tethered. People living in a waterfront can also install boat-lifts to winch their craft clear off the water when not in use. A trailer is as good a place as any to keep your boat if you have one.
If you really can’t find the space, or if you figure you will be using it less frequently, rent some self-storage space near you. A wide shelf in a warehouse where you can keep your boat inverted and covered is one possibility.
Self-storage places made especially for boats include racks that are usually stacked one atop the other to accommodate more craft. Usually, these racks are inside roofed storage for better security and preservation. You may face some mild inconvenience when it comes time to retrieve your boat, especially if it’s at the top of an especially tall stack, though one might say the same of a high shelf.
Whatever your choice, try hard to rent a space that is indoors and has good climate control. In cold climates, low temperatures can cause water to expand into ice, worrying into the wood or plastic and widening gaps and creating furrows, disrupting the integrity of the vessel. When the ice melts, it contracts, further putting stress on the warped material.
Wet climates bring the problem of high humidity. When the air is humid, it is saturated in water, which means water will have a more difficult time evaporating from your boat. A wooden craft stored in conditions of excess moisture is a haven to fungi and termites. Even non-wooden vessels will benefit more from dry conditions than wet since it lessens the likelihood of rust or corrosion. When checking the temperature at a facility, be sure to note if it’s in Fahrenheit or in Celsius.
A storage facility for your boat can also hold maintenance supplies, gear and trailers. Keeping everything centralized will prevent things from getting misplaced and will make check-ups and maintenance trips less of a hassle should you feel the need to make them.
Mid-size Boats
Running the gamut from power cruisers to pursuit boats, mid-size boats are generally twenty to thirty feet long. As with smaller craft, choosing a storage facility for your boat depends on how often you intend to use it, though options of indoor storage are vastly more limited for these more massive vessels.
Regular use might persuade, such owners might prefer to keep the craft in the water rather than hauling them to be parked on a trailer. Often, these boats will be left with others in a special harbor called a marina. Some boat lifts can also handle the lighter mid-size boats if you wish to minimize contact with water, especially saltwater. When uncertain about a boat lift’s capacity, err on the side of safety.
When you do want to store your boat away from the water, several services offer rentable parking spaces where you can leave your boat on a trailer. Parking spaces will vary in size even if the service says they can be used for boats like yours, so measure your boat carefully to see if it can fit.
Again, indoor spaces are preferred, but depending on where you live, these might be uncommon and hard to rent. Rarely, you might have access to indoor facilities built over the water so you can drive your boat right into it. Such places will usually be full up with prior occupants or reserved for the use of a company or a private individual, but sometimes, you might get lucky. When considering your options, it never hurts to ask.
Maintenance measures apply to mid-sized boats as well. Do the necessary engine check-ups before and after use, ensure the tank is empty of fuel when storing boats over longer periods and cover your boat adequately against the elements. Clean the boat thoroughly and ensure even and constant air circulation.
Large Boats
Yachts are almost always confined either to outdoor parking spaces for them and their trailers or, more practically, to marinas, where they are moored to the dock. Thankfully, most marinas can provide power, water and other amenities, letting you use the yacht as a living space and a place to store tools.
Clean your yacht regularly, from deck to stern and every compartment, and perform maintenance as required in the instruction manual that commonly accompanies this large craft upon purchase.
CHECK OTHER POST Storage Rental for Businesses and Organizations
The post Tips in Choosing the Right Storage Facility for Your Boat appeared first on Midland Boat RV Storage.
Diligent and meticulous preparation ensures that your investment in an RV or trailer will not be compromised while it is in storage for any season. Taking the right steps assures you that your vehicle will remain in good condition. Otherwise, you run the risk of encountering problems just when you are about to take your family on a road trip. Aside from the hassle, you will have to worry about a significant repair bill when your RV is damaged due to moisture, cracks, and freezing.
Initially, check the overall condition of your RV or travel trailer before storing it for any season.
Here is a general checklist of items you need to look into. It is also best to read the manufacturer’s manual that came with your RV or trailer for specific storage instructions.
Prior to storing your RV or trailer, it is a good idea to go on a short drive around the block. Take note of any significant sounds that may indicate engine or tire trouble. Make sure to have these checked by a professional prior to storage.
Carry out a thorough inspection of your vehicle from top to bottom. Check for anything that may be broken like awnings or seals. Get these fixed right away to prevent further damage due to moisture.
Take the time to remove items that may freeze during the winter season from the RV or trailer. In particular, take out liquid containers that get damaged due to extreme cold.
Remove and wash bedding sheets and linens for storage.
Make sure to vacuum the carpets, floors, and cushions.
Seal and waterproof cracks or peels along the exterior of the RV or trailer.
Wash the RV or trailer then apply a coat of wax.
Empty the cupboards for food items to minimize the onslaught of critters.
Turn off and empty the refrigerator then defrost it. To reduce odors, place baking soda inside the refrigerator and leave the door open to prevent the growth of molds.
Saving Your Battery for Storage
It is essential to ensure that your battery is prepped for storage to protect it from the cold. Moreover, you do not want to deal with a dead battery when you take your RV or trailer out of storage.
Make sure that the battery is fully charged as this lessens the chances of freezing in cold weather. A battery with a weak charge is more likely to freeze and get damaged. Your battery will also last longer if you take the time to prevent the possibility of discharge. Make sure to disconnect or turn off the equipment in the RV or trailer that can drain the battery. This includes the alarm, TV antenna, and shut-off valves. It is also best to detach the negative cable from the battery. In this way, even if you forget to switch off a device, the battery charge stays intact.
If you live in an area that experiences extreme cold during the winter, it is better to take out the battery. Keep it stored in a dry room with ambient temperature.
Prevent Plumbing Disasters
The chances of a plumbing disaster are greater if you do not take the necessary precautions. For the winter period, it is advisable to get rid of the water running through the system before storage. This includes the water in the heater tank.
Afterward, add anti-freeze to the pipes, valves, traps, as well as the waste tank to treat the entire system. The addition of antifreeze prevents any leftover water from turning into ice.
In some cases, it may not be necessary to add antifreeze to the freshwater or black water holding tanks. If a small amount of liquid is left, there is still enough space for expansion should it freeze up. However, it is important to pay close attention to the waterlines as these have little room for expansion.
Leftover water that freezes in the system can cause expansion and eventually break the pipes open. As a result, the RV or trailer may get soaked and cause additional damage to the floors.
Take Care of Your Tires
See to it the tires of the RV or trailer are prepped correctly for storage. This ensures it is ready for road travel when you need it. The last thing you want is to discover tire blowouts on the day of your trip.
As with any other vehicle, tires weaken if left in the same place and position for a long period of time. This could lead to an accident while you are on the road. Bear in mind the following tire tips before checking your RV or trailer into storage.
In terms of storage location, choose an area that is cool, dry, and away from direct sunlight.
Leave only the bare essentials, if possible, take out items that are not built into the vehicle. The lesser weight carried by the tires the better.
In some cases, it is helpful to place the vehicle on blocks to limit the weight on the tires. This is especially practical if you plan to keep the vehicle in storage for more than three months.
Alternatively, you may opt to remove the tires altogether and place the vehicle on top of blocks while in storage. This reduces the chances that your tires will get flat spots if kept in a stationary position for too long.
If possible, move the RV or trailer to turn the tires to keep the rubber from cracking. This also limits the chances of flat spots. However, avoid doing this if the weather is too cold.
Add 25% more air into your tires on top of the recommended pressure. However, take care not to go beyond the inflation capacity set by the rim manufacturer.
Take the time to wash your tires thoroughly. Use soap and water to remove oil that has gathered over time during your travels.
Use protective tarps to cover the tires after pressurizing and cleaning.
It is best to prepare your RV or trailer for storage to minimize problems later on. So that when the season permits you can get on the road safely without delay.
Taking the time to prepare your RV or trailer for storage certainly pays off in the long run. It limits the likelihood that you would spend thousands of dollars to have damages repaired. Moreover, you and your family will get to enjoy your RV or travel trailer for a very long time.
CHECK OTHER POST Tips in Choosing the Right Storage Facility for Your Boat
The post Prepare Your RV and Travel Trailers for Seasonal Storage appeared first on Midland Boat RV Storage.
Towards the end of the boating season, it is wise to map out options for storing your boat-RV during winter. Preventive measures are keys to protecting your investment in this recreational vehicle. Do not be complacent even if you have an insurance policy, or if you live in a state with a more temperate climate. Unexpected cold spells have been known to happen even in states that are considered warmer than the northern climes. If your boat sustains any damage due to neglect or improper winterization, you could have a steep expense to deal with come spring. Thus, it would be best for you to anticipate the possible cold spells in your area and schedule your boat-RV winterization well before that. You can actually check out your local gardening websites to find out when the first freeze is expected.
Tip #1: Decide where it’s best to store your boat. Some boat owners prefer to dock their RVs in the water during winter, so they can take advantage of a couple of mild winter days and easily take their boats out in the water. There are others who prefer to store their boats in their own garages or storage facilities.
If you own a big boat, then it’s probably best to have your boat stored in your local Marina, where they’re bound to have a winterization service to offer. Alternatively, you may opt to shrink-wrap your boat to ensure it is safely sealed against possible cracks, condensation, and other damage usually brought on by deep freezes.
For those on a budget, marina storage and shrink-wrapping are costlier ways of keeping your boat safe during the winter. You may opt to keep your boat on land – on your trailer, in your garage, in a boatyard, or storage facility. Just keep in mind that having boats on dry land during winter is actually a riskier undertaking. The boat will be more exposed to freezing temperatures all around, without the moderating effect of water temperatures to keep the boat relatively safer from hard freezes.
Tip #2: If you do decide to keep your boat on land, make sure you winterize it properly before keeping it under a dry, secure cover, and storing it inside a climate-controlled boat storage facility.
Tip #3: First check your boat’s manual for specific instructions on how to winterize your boat or for where to find certain valves and other parts. You may have to move around your boat to have a visual check before you start working on your RV.
Tip #4: Prepare all the materials you will need in winterizing your RV. You will need:
Battery charger – You can charge your battery while you are winterizing the boat. Be sure to disconnect your charger after your winterizing is done.
Oil-changing kit – Prepare an oil pan, a funnel, a 12-volt charger to help pump the oil out, and some hand towels.
Storage fogger or fogging oil
Seafoam – This is your fuel stabilizer, and you can buy it by the gallon.
Motor oil
Lower unit oil
Grease gun
Anti-freeze with an optional dispenser (attached to a hose with hose adaptor) for hard-to-reach valves or pipes – It is advisable to use non-toxic anti-freeze so that when spring arrives, you can just fire up your boat and you’re good to go.
Tip #5: Stabilize your fuel for long storage. Check your seafoam container for instructions on mixing (example = 1 ounce of sea foam:1 gallon fuel). Not only will the stabilizer prep your boat for winter storage, but it will also preserve fuel for several months to a year, prevent fuel system deposits, and even help prevent corrosion.
Run your engine, bringing the temperature up to operating temperature in order to run the fuel that was just treated, and get the engine hot enough to facilitate oil flow during the oil change. For safety, always remove the propeller before running your engine. Then clean the prop shaft and grease it adequately. Finally, put the propeller back on, making sure to lock it tightly.
Tip #6: Drain oil from the engine, then change the oil filter according to your boat model. Have an oil diaper handy to catch any residual oil. Before replacing the filter, coat the seal and threads of the filter with engine oil, and pour a little bit of it into prime the filter as well. Then screw the new filter in place.
Refill your engine with new oil. Just as a little side note: remove the cap foil completely so there’s no risk of it falling into the engine.
You also have to check that the splines and O-rings are properly oiled and lubricated. Drain and refill the lower unit of your overdrive with gear lubricant. Always remember to have water running through the lower unit while replacing the oil. The internal impeller is made of rubber. If it is not wet, it will be damaged. Hook up a water muff so the water pump impeller won’t be ruined. Do not forget to top up the gear lube monitor bottle.
Tip #7: Fog your engine and drain cooling water. Run your engine to fog it. Remove the spark arrestor and spray the fogging oil into your carburetor, with the engine RPM slightly up. After fogging, change the fuel filter in anticipation of your spring crank up.
Drain the block and manifolds of all cooling water. Again, be sure to check your owner’s manual to locate all of your boat’s drains. It’s vital to open all of them. After draining, fill the block and manifolds with anti-freeze. Any residual water will be treated to prevent any water freezing and pipe corrosion during winter.
It is always best to check the condition of your outdrive at least once a year. When you disconnect and reconnect your drive, put it in forwarding gear for alignment when sliding it on or off the shift coupling. Before you store your boat RV for the winter season, remember to fully charge its battery and then remove and store it separately. It is also advisable to wash and wax your boat before covering it with a tarp. If this is your first time to winterize a boat, have an experienced friend help you or get a professional to do the job.
CHECK OTHER POST Prepare Your RV and Travel Trailers for Seasonal Storage
The post 7 Tips to Preparing Your RV for Winter Storage appeared first on Midland Boat RV Storage.
One of the best things about summer is that it’s ideal for so many water activities. The warm, sunny weather along with the calm blue waters on the beach or at the lake is practically an invitation to take a boat out sailing, fishing, or for a relaxing cruise. This sort of practice has become a summer tradition among many families, so a lot of them opt to purchase a boat for their own personal use.
However, summer vacations also come to an end. After about three glorious months of sun and sail, the leaves turn brown, and the temperature drops, signaling an end to the summer season. This also means that your boat needs to be put away for storage.
Ironically, the “time off” for your boat can actually speed up the process of wear and tear unless you take time to store your boat properly for the long winter months. Keeping the boat dry during storage is especially important. Any sort of moisture that manages to sneak in can freeze up in the nooks and crannies of your boat, eventually causing rust and corrosion.
Fortunately, there are steps that you can take to ensure that your boat can withstand a prolonged period of winter storage.
Here are tips on how you can keep your boat dry:
Always, always clean your boat. Rust, corrosion, and excess moisture will find it much harder to penetrate your boat if it has been cleaned properly. Before you put your boat away for the season, give it a thorough cleaning: wash the deck, bottom, and topsides with soap and water, wipe the hardware and trim clean, and apply a layer of wax on the boat’s topsides once they’ve been washed and dried.
If your boat is made of fiberglass and if it has spent extended amounts of time in the waters, check the surfaces for any blisters and patch them up immediately if you find them. If you have any canvas materials on the boat, dry them thoroughly in the sun before stowing the vessel away. Better yet, remove them from the boat and store them indoors instead.
Give your metal trailer roller a bit of TLC. A generous spray of good water and dirt displacing lubricant on your boat’s metal trailer roller can do wonders for keeping rust and corrosion away from the base of your boat. Spray the lubricant on areas like the winch gear, assemblies, and electrical connections to discourage moisture from taking hold during the winter months.
As with the boat, check your trailer for rust spots as well. Should you find such, sand, prime, and paint over them accordingly to prevent them from spreading over the trailer and your boat.
Check the boat’s engines for the build-up and lubricate it properly after cleaning. Inspect your boat’s stern drive engine for gum or carbon deposits and treat them with a specialized aerosol to dissolve and flush them from your engine.
As an added precautionary measure, you may want to spray a special storage oil into the air intakes while you let the engine run. This will leave a protective film in the interior of your engine, discouraging moisture from seeping in and making it easier to restart the engine after storage.
Once your engines have been cleaned thoroughly, lubricate its oil filter, inboards, and outboards with the appropriate kind of grease as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
Set up the fuel system for proper storage. It might seem counter-intuitive, but you should top up your boat’s fuel tank prior to storage. If you leave your fuel tank half-empty, you run the risk of moisture or condensation forming on the walls of the tank.
Before you fill up your tank, however, you may want to change your fuel filter first. This is especially important if the boat has been through a long season as carbon deposits may have formed on the filter in use.
Another way to prep your fuel system for the winter is to introduce a marine fuel stabilizer. The stabilizer discourages the build-up of gum and varnish in the fuel system when the engine is not in use. It also keeps the fuel from freezing up or separating during the cold winter months.
To add a stabilizer to your fuel system, refer to the boat manual for instructions on how to introduce it into the engine and use the appropriate stabilizer as per the manual’s recommendations. Do run the engine for a bit after adding the stabilizer to make sure that it circulates evenly.
Flush your outboard motors. If you’ve used your boat on the open waters of the sea, salt and dirt are bound to collect on your outboard motors. These tend to attract corrosion, so flush them out with fresh water and then drain out all the water from the engine once there are no traces of dirt or salt left.
You may also want to do the same for your raw water cooling systems to remove or flush out the same kind of build-up. (Also, if you live in an area that suffers from extreme winters, you may want to run anti-freeze through to the cylinder block of the interior motor’s engine.)
Keep the bow of your boat and trailer rig in a slight bow-up position in storage. This position is best for allowing any residual water to drain out so that the interiors of the boat stay dry. Don’t neglect to detach the drain plug. Either keep the plug indoors or tie it up to the ignition key so you can find it easily when it’s time to bring the boat out again.
Inspect the boat periodically throughout the winter for any accumulated water or critters. Get rid of any that you find and refasten the covers to keep them tight. This is especially crucial if you are storing your boat on a trailer outside.
If you are unable to provide interior storage for your boat, avoid parking its trailer under the trees. The branches may snap off during blizzards and fall into your boat. Falling leaves and needles may also fall into your boat and block up your drains, making it hard for any moisture to escape the boat.
Most of all, it is important to consult your boat’s manual for any additional precautions that your model may require. Be sure to follow instructions and specifications about what sort of cleaning materials to use and whether or not you need additional substances like anti-freeze and such.
CHECK OTHER POST 7 Tips to Preparing Your RV for Winter Storage
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