When storing your valuables or sentimental belongings in a self-storage facility, security should be at the top of your priority list. While price, location, and accessibility are all important, the security measures a facility provides will ultimately protect the items you’ve chosen to store.

It’s crucial to do your research and ensure the facility you choose offers robust security features. A good facility should have multiple layers of protection to safeguard your belongings. After all, if these items didn’t hold value or meaning to you, you wouldn’t be storing them in the first place.

Visiting potential facilities in person is an important step. Seeing the security measures firsthand can give you peace of mind and help you make a confident decision. Unfortunately, storage facility thefts are reported every year, making it more important than ever to choose wisely.

Key Security Features to Look For

Reputable storage facilities employ a layered approach to security, combining both low-tech and high-tech measures. Here’s what to look for:

Low-Tech Security Measures

• Fire and Smoke Alarms: Protect your belongings from unexpected hazards.
• High Fencing: Keeps unauthorized individuals out of the facility.
• Well-Lit Areas: Ensure the facility is brightly lit, especially during winter months when daylight is limited. Constant lighting provides added safety and deters intruders.
• Clear Access to Units: The path to your unit should be unobstructed, allowing video surveillance to capture clear footage.
• On-Site Security Guards: Video cameras are helpful, but they can’t chase away intruders. Security guards are a valuable layer of protection.
• Access Gates: Facilities should require entry through a secured access gate—never choose a location where anyone can drive up to the units freely.

High-Tech Security Measures

• Digital Keypad Access: Limits entry to authorized individuals.
• Wireless Door Alarms: Detect unauthorized access to individual units.
• Motion Sensors: Alert staff to unusual movement within the facility.
• Remote Off-Site Monitoring: Ensures surveillance even when staff isn’t on-site.
• Visible Video Surveillance: Cameras not only monitor activity but also act as a deterrent to potential intruders.

Additionally, choose a facility that is well-staffed. Large facilities with only one or two employees may struggle to monitor the property effectively.

Extra Security Measures You Can Take

While choosing a secure storage facility is essential, you can also take extra precautions to safeguard your belongings:

• Use High-Quality Locks: Invest in a round discus lock with a short shackle to prevent bolt cutters from being used.
• Limit Key Access: Only you and trusted family members should have access to the key. Keep spares in a secure, hidden location.
• Secure Access Codes: Treat your access code like your bank PIN—never share it with others.
• Strategic Packing: Place your most valuable items at the back of the unit to deter “smash-and-grab” thefts.
• Daylight Visits: Try to access your unit during daylight hours for better visibility and safety.

Don’t Forget Insurance

Insurance is a vital aspect of self-storage. Many reputable facilities offer insurance options, but if they don’t, you’ll need to secure coverage through your homeowner’s policy or a third-party provider. Check to see if the facility requires proof of insurance before storing your items.

Questions to Ask the Facility

Before committing to a storage facility, ask the manager these important questions:

1. What is your relationship with local law enforcement?
2. How often do the police patrol or monitor the area?

A facility that collaborates with local authorities is more likely to take security seriously.

Big Box Storage: Security You Can Trust

At Big Box Storage, we’ve gone above and beyond to ensure your belongings are safe. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Video Surveillance: Cameras monitor both the interior and exterior of our facility.
• Motion Sensors: Detect and deter unauthorized movement.
• Perimeter Alarms: Secure the facility against break-ins.
• Exterior Barbed Wire Fencing: An additional layer of protection.
• On-Site Staff: Our team is present to monitor and assist, unlike some facilities that operate remotely.

We treat your belongings as if they were our own. If you’re looking for secure self-storage in San Diego, trust Big Box Storage to deliver the safety and peace of mind you deserve.

In today’s fast-growing small business sector, more people are launching their own companies than ever before. E-commerce has made it as easy as a few clicks to get started. With countless online tools and applications available, you can now launch and manage your business from the comfort of your home.

From selling products to managing shipping and even handling bookkeeping, many aspects of running a business can be done remotely and even in a small apartment. However, there’s one critical question you may not have considered:

Where Will You Store Your Inventory?

If your business involves selling physical products, you’ll likely need a place to store your inventory. Some entrepreneurs opt for drop shipping, where products are sent directly from the manufacturer to the customer. Many prefer to keep inventory on hand for greater control. Having your own stock allows you to monitor inventory levels, handle surplus, and ensure the quality of the items you’re selling.

But where should you store it? Many business owners start small, running their businesses from home or a modest office space. Renting a large warehouse might not be feasible in the early stages due to budget constraints or availability. So, what’s the solution?

Portable Storage: A Convenient and Affordable Option

What if you could have your own portable storage warehouse delivered to your doorstep? That’s exactly what Big Box Storage offers small business owners in San Diego. This affordable and flexible solution provides the convenience of storing inventory securely while keeping it easily accessible.

Here’s how it works: A portable storage unit is delivered to your location. You load it with your inventory, and when you’re ready, it’s picked up and placed in a secure facility. If you need access to your unit, it can be brought back to your location, or you can visit the storage facility at your convenience. It’s storage on your terms.

Features and Benefits of Big Box Storage

• Generous Storage Space: Each unit measures 8′ x 5′ x 7′, holding the equivalent of one and a half average-sized rooms or up to 2,000 pounds. It’s perfect for storing inventory, business equipment, or office supplies.
• Flexible Rental Terms: Big Box Storage offers convenient rental options with no hidden fees and a 110% low-price guarantee. It’s an unbeatable deal for San Diego business owners.
• Scalable Solutions: Need more space as your business grows? Simply rent another unit. With just a phone call, a new storage box can be delivered to your doorstep, ready to accommodate your expanding needs.

Secure and Accessible Storage

All storage units are housed in a secure facility equipped with motion detectors, perimeter alarms, and video surveillance, ensuring the safety of your inventory. You’ll have access to your unit seven days a week, whether you need to retrieve a small item or have the entire unit delivered back to your location.

Long-Distance Shipping Made Easy

Planning to relocate your business to another state? Big Box Storage can handle that too. Your container can be shipped to your new location, eliminating the hassle of unloading and repacking inventory. It’s a simple and cost-effective way to move your business.

Simplify Your Business Operations

For today’s entrepreneurs, every dollar saved counts. Portable storage with Big Box Storage is an efficient, cost-effective solution that helps small businesses thrive without the expense of renting a warehouse or additional office space.

Keep your inventory organized, secure, and easily accessible with portable storage tailored to your needs. Start small, dream big, and let Big Box Storage handle your storage needs as your business grows!

Owning a boat is a privilege and a joy, especially when the weather is perfect for hitting the water. During the boating season, you likely put in the time and effort to maintain your vessel for optimal performance. However, during the offseason, it’s equally important to ensure your boat is safely stored and protected from the elements.

Proper boat storage is essential to keep your vessel in top condition. Boats are delicate structures, and preparing them for storage can be as challenging as finding a secure place to house them during the winter months. Choosing a reliable self-storage facility that specializes in boat storage is often the best solution. These facilities have the experience and tools to keep your boat and its accessories safe, ensuring it’s ready to go as soon as the boating season returns.

Here are some essential tips to prepare your boat for storage during the offseason:

Preparing Your Boat for Storage

1. Clean Thoroughly
   Remove all food crumbs and leftover beverages to prevent pests like rodents and insects from turning your boat into their winter home.
2. Prevent Corrosion
   Flush out grime, salt, and dirt from your boat. Add antifreeze to the cooling system to protect it from harsh winter conditions.
3. Stabilize Fuel
   Top up your fuel tank and add a stabilizer to prevent condensation. Change the oil and filters, then run the engine for about 15 minutes to circulate the treated fuel.
4. Drain and Clean
   After removing your boat from the water, immediately pull out the bilge drain plug. Scrub the decks and hull to remove algae, dirt, and debris.
5. Prevent Mildew
   Place mildew control bags in all compartments to prevent unpleasant odors when you take your boat out in the spring.
6. Protect with Covers
   • Consider shrink-wrapping your boat to protect its interior.
   • Alternatively, invest in a high-quality boat cover to shield it from dust and moisture.
7. Remove Batteries and Electronics
   Disconnect and store these in a warm, dry place within the storage facility to prevent damage.
8. Dedicated Storage for Kayaks and Canoes
   If you own a kayak or canoe, ensure you choose a facility specifically designed for these types of boats.
9. Support the Structure
   Use proper support systems like jack stands, blocks, or trailers. Pay special attention to the hull and keel to avoid structural damage during storage.
10. Check the Warranty
    Verify that your boat’s warranty won’t expire during the storage period. Address any required maintenance or repairs before storing it.
11. Visit Regularly
    Periodic visits to the storage facility allow you to inspect your boat and address any issues that may arise.
12. Affordable Outdoor Options
    If cost is a concern, an outdoor storage facility with a good cover can be a budget-friendly alternative.
13. Record Issues
    Take your boat out for a short trip before storage to identify any problems. Fix these issues before storing your boat for the winter.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure your boat is well-prepared for storage and ready for smooth sailing when the next season arrives.

At Big Box Storage, we specialize in portable storage solutions. For expert advice and tailored storage options for your boat, consult a dedicated boat storage professional who can provide additional guidance.

Happy boating!

Owning a recreational vehicle (RV) brings the joy of adventure and quality time with loved ones. Whether you use your RV for extended vacations, scenic road trips, or occasional weekend getaways, proper storage is crucial when it’s not in use. Storing an RV poses unique challenges due to its size, value, and maintenance requirements. Here are key considerations and tips to help you find the best RV storage solution.

Why RV Storage Matters

An RV is a significant investment, and how you store it impacts its condition, security, and longevity. Proper storage:

• Protects your RV’s value: Prevents weather damage, rust, and wear.
• Ensures security: Keeps your RV safe from theft or vandalism.
• Saves on repairs: Reduces the need for costly fixes caused by improper storage.

Key Considerations for RV Storage

1. Choose a Dedicated RV Storage Facility
   • Specialized RV storage facilities are equipped to accommodate large vehicles.
   • These facilities often offer perks like wider spaces, climate control, and better security.
2. Prioritize Security
   • Look for facilities with 24/7 surveillance, gated access, and on-site personnel.
   • Some facilities provide master keys or combination locks for added control.
3. Evaluate Space Requirements
   • Ensure the facility provides adequate room for parking and easy maneuvering.
   • Check for height and length restrictions to ensure your RV fits comfortably.
4. Inspect for Climate Control
   • San Diego’s weather is mild, but climate-controlled storage prevents extreme conditions from affecting your RV’s systems and interior.
5. Consider Accessibility
   • Opt for a facility that allows 24/7 access, so you can check your RV anytime.
   • Facilities offering online login credentials for entry add convenience.
6. Maintenance and Inspections
   • Regularly check your RV for motor efficiency and overall condition.
   • Perform routine inspections, especially during winter months.
7. Specialized Services
   • Look for additional offerings, such as spaces for RV accessories like kitchen or bathroom items.
   • Ask the facility for a winter storage checklist to ensure your RV is properly prepared.

Additional Benefits to Look For

• Surveillance: Facilities with round-the-clock CCTV monitoring provide peace of mind.
• Cleanliness: A tidy facility reduces the risk of pests or damage to your RV.
• Flexibility: Long-term lease options often include discounts and protect against price hikes.

Tips Before Committing to RV Storage

• Do Your Research: Vet RV storage companies, check reviews, and seek recommendations from fellow RV owners.
• Don’t Skimp on Quality: Higher rent can be worth it if it means better security and care.
• Plan Ahead: Ensure your RV’s kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom are emptied or prepped for storage.

Big Box Storage: A Note on Self-Storage

While Big Box Storage doesn’t currently offer RV storage, San Diego has excellent specialized RV storage facilities to suit your needs. If you’re looking for personal self-storage, we provide a best-price guarantee and flexible solutions to make storing your belongings simple and stress-free.

Taking the time to find the right RV storage ensures your investment is safe, secure, and ready for your next adventure. Happy travels!

Before diving into the art of storing wine, let’s debunk a common myth: not all wines benefit from aging. In fact, most wines, especially newer, less-expensive brands are best enjoyed within a few years of bottling. However, for those special bottles that improve with time, proper storage can enhance their value and flavor. There’s something uniquely rewarding about savoring a well-aged bottle you’ve carefully saved for a meaningful occasion.

If you’re storing wine for over a year or building a serious collection, professional storage is worth considering. A good rule of thumb: if a wine fridge costs less than a quarter of what you spent on wine last year, it might be time to invest in one. For simpler collections, here are some essential tips to ensure your wine stays in peak condition.

Essential Wine Storage Tips

1. Temperature Control
   • Ideal Temperature: Store wine at around 54°F.
   • Avoid Extremes: Temperatures below 45°F slow aging, while above 70°F can accelerate aging and cause oxidation.
   • No Temperature Swings: Keep fluctuations to no more than 3°F per day to prevent cork movement or seepage.
2. Note: Storing wine in a regular fridge is fine for short periods (up to two months), but prolonged cold storage could cause cork issues or expansion of the wine.
3. UV Protection
   • Sunlight and ultraviolet rays can degrade wine and cause premature aging.
   • Store bottles in a dark, cool space or switch fluorescent bulbs to incandescent to reduce UV exposure.
4. Humidity Levels
   • Recommended Humidity: Aim for around 70% to keep corks moist and prevent oxidation.
   • Modern wine bottles with screw tops or glass/plastic corks are less affected by dryness but high humidity can damage labels. Use a dehumidifier if necessary.
5. Avoid Vibrations
   • Vibrations, while not chemically harmful, can disturb sediment in older wines, potentially affecting taste. Store wine in a stable, quiet location.
6. Bottle Orientation
   • Sideways Storage: Helps keep corks moist, but for screw tops or synthetic corks, it’s not necessary unless you’re saving space.

When to Invest in Professional Storage

If your collection is growing or includes valuable bottles, consider professional storage facilities with temperature and humidity controls. These services ensure long-term wine quality and offer peace of mind for serious collectors.

Why Proper Storage Matters

Taking the time to store your wine properly ensures every bottle tastes its best when opened. Whether you’re saving a rare vintage for a special occasion or enjoying everyday bottles, following these tips will help preserve your wine’s flavor and quality.

While Big Box Storage doesn’t provide wine storage services, there are excellent wine storage options throughout California. For personal storage needs, Big Box Storage offers unmatched convenience and a best-price guarantee, making it easy to store your belongings.

Cheers to good wine and great storage!

Whether you’ve recently inherited family heirlooms, are downsizing, or need a safe place for your precious antiques, proper storage is essential. Without the right precautions, your exquisite collectibles could lose their value or sustain irreparable damage. Here’s a comprehensive guide to ensure your antiques stay in pristine condition during moving and storage.

Choosing the Right Storage Space

Selecting the best storage unit for your antiques involves careful consideration:

1. Climate Control
   • Keep the temperature between 50-80°F to prevent damage caused by heat or cold.
   • Use a dehumidifier in high-humidity environments to prevent mold, mildew, paper rot, or metal corrosion.
2. Accessibility
   • If you plan to rotate antiques or sell items, choose an easily accessible storage space.
   • Ground-floor or drive-up units reduce the risk of damage during transportation. However, note that these may limit climate control options.
3. Security
   • Opt for facilities with surveillance cameras, keypad entry, and proper lighting.
   • For high-value items, consider units with advanced security features like fingerprint readers.
4. Cost Consideration
   • While high-security, climate-controlled units might be more expensive, they’re worth the investment to protect irreplaceable items.

Packing Antiques for Storage

Proper packing can make all the difference in preserving your antiques:

1. Protective Measures
   • Leather Items: Apply leather conditioner to prevent drying or cracking.
   • Metals: Coat lightly with oil to prevent rust.
   • Wood Furniture: Use furniture polish to maintain moisture and shine.
   • Upholstery: Cover with plastic or fabric sheets to prevent dust buildup.
2. Disassembly
   • Take apart large items (e.g., beds or armoires) and label small parts to avoid misplacement.
3. Fragile Items
   • Wrap dishes, glassware, and lamp bases individually. Use bubble wrap or foam pellets in boxes for added protection.
   • Remove light bulbs from lamps to avoid breakage.
4. Books
   • Use acid-free book covers to prevent page wear and humidity damage.
5. Framed Art and Mirrors
   • For double-sided pieces, encapsulate them with polyester film.
   • For single-sided pieces, use mat boards or storage boxes designed for delicate frames.
   • Store framed items upright, never flat, to avoid collapse.
6. Air Circulation
   • Place items on pallets to allow airflow and protect them from potential water damage.

Insurance

If your antiques are valuable enough to store, they’re valuable enough to insure.

• Check if your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance covers items in storage.
• If not, consider an additional endorsement or a self-storage insurance policy.
• Keep a detailed inventory, including photos and appraisals, for easy reference and claims.

Why Proper Storage Matters

Taking the time to properly store your antiques ensures they’ll retain their value, condition, and sentimental significance. Although Big Box Storage doesn’t specialize in antique storage, we’re here to help with your other storage needs.

Need advice or assistance? Contact Big Box Storage today, and let us help you protect your valuables!

Storing electronics doesn’t have to be stressful! With a little planning, you can keep your devices safe and in great condition, whether moving or storing them long-term. Here’s an easy guide to help you out:

1. Give Everything a Quick Clean
   Dust and dirt might seem harmless, but they can damage your electronics by clogging vents or causing scratches. Wipe down your devices before packing them to avoid these issues. Dust can also create static electricity that could fry your equipment, so cleaning is a must.
2. Unplug and Organize Cords
   Before packing, disconnect all cables and cords. Tangled or yanked wires can damage sockets and ports. Wrap each cord neatly, label them, and store them in a small bag or container. Don’t forget to remove batteries from devices since they can leak and cause serious damage over time.
3. Pack Like a Pro
   If you still have the original box, use it. Those boxes are designed to protect your electronics perfectly. If you don’t have the original packaging, wrap devices in soft materials like cotton towels or sheets to prevent scratches. Use bubble wrap or crumpled paper to fill gaps in boxes so everything stays snug. Avoid plastic wrapping because it traps moisture and can lead to mold.
4. Pick the Perfect Spot for Storage
   Electronics need to be stored in a space with a stable temperature between 50 and 80°F. Extreme cold or heat can cause damage, and moisture is a big problem. If you don’t have access to climate-controlled storage, use a dehumidifier to keep things dry.
5. Handle with Care
   When moving electronics, try to transport them in your car instead of a moving truck. Your car offers a smoother ride and a more stable temperature, keeping your gadgets safe and sound.
6. Label and Stack Smartly
   Before you start stacking boxes, take a few extra minutes to label them. Write down what’s inside each box so you don’t have to dig through everything later. Stack heavier boxes at the bottom and lighter ones on top to avoid any accidents.

Need more tips or help with your storage needs? Contact Big Box Storage. We’re here to make storing your electronics and other belongings as easy as possible. With our best price guarantee, you’ll save money while keeping your items safe.

Filling a self storage unit, may seem like a simple task, but there are a few little tips that may help you out. If you’re considering renting a storage space, these simple tips will help you maximize your storage space, help you properly load your items into the storage unit, provide considerations for accessing items at a later date and provide tips as to what you should or should not store in a self storage locker.

Access

Most people simply load their self storage units without consideration of items that they may need to access at a later date. In fact, most people use storage space because the items that are placed in storage are infrequently used around the house. But of course, we know how life goes, just when you pack it up and store it, you suddenly have a need for it.

If you have items that perhaps you may need to access, load them into the storage locker last, so they’re easily accessible in the locker.

Avoid Plastic

Plastic bags are durable and cheap and are a great alternative to boxes, especially for clothes. Well, although they may have other great uses, plastic bags aren’t so effective for use in storage lockers, especially for storing clothes. Plastic can trap moisture, which can then lead to mold. In many instances, the trapping of moisture occurs before any items are even loaded into the storage unit (moisture is trapped during the packing process).

Leave Space

It’s important to leave a little space between the items you stack into the storage unit and the walls of the storage space. This will ensure proper circulation of air and assist with keeping your items dry.

Use Labels

Labels are a great way of organizing your items. Remember, if you have to access any items at a later date, it’s best to have your self storage unit organized as much as possible. This will ensure a quick in and out, during the access period.

Items of Value

Whether you’re storing an item of great monetary value or an item of great sentimental value, those items of value, should be wrapped up. Wrapping items up that are most important to you, will ensure they look the same as they did before you loaded them into the storage unit. Goods can easily shift and fall if they’re not stacked properly.

Large Glass Items

When storing glass items such as mirrors or glass from a coffee table or dinning room table, always place the glass on it’s side as opposed to laying it flat. Further, avoid stacking any items on the glass. Following these tips should ensure your glass is safe.

Heavier items on the bottom

Another tip is to ensure that heavier items are on the bottom and the lighter items are stacked on top. This seems obvious, but it’s easy to forget this rule if you’re rushing to fill your storage locker.

So if you’re considering renting a self storage unit, follow those simple tips and your items should look the same going in as they do coming out.

Selling your home? Staging is one of the best ways to attract buyers and boost your sale price. But here’s a helpful tip you might not have considered, using portable storage can make the process a whole lot easier.

When you’re staging your home, de-cluttering is often the first step. This means removing personal items, excess furniture, and anything that makes your home look crowded. A clutter-free home not only appears more spacious but also helps buyers envision themselves living in the space.

So where do all your belongings go? That’s where portable storage comes in.

Why Use Portable Storage for Home Staging?

Portable storage offers unmatched convenience during the home staging process. Instead of hauling your items to a traditional self-storage facility and making multiple trips, you can pack everything into a portable storage container right on your property. Once you’re ready, the container is picked up and stored for you. When you sell your home, the container can be delivered directly to your new address—no double handling, no extra trips.

Here’s why portable storage stands out:

• Save Time and Effort: With portable storage, you only load and unload your items once.
• Seamless Moving: Your belongings stay securely in the container, ready to be delivered to your new home.
• Flexibility: Portable storage works on your schedule, making the process stress-free.

Why Stage Your Home?

Staging your home can make all the difference in selling quickly and for a great price. Here are a few reasons why it’s worth the effort:

1. Get Top Dollar: A well-staged home feels inviting and elicits positive emotions from buyers, making them more likely to pay top dollar.
2. Sell Faster: Studies show staged homes sell 43% faster than unstaged ones.
3. Create Space: Removing excess items makes your home appear larger and flow better, creating a more appealing layout.
4. Make a Great First Impression: You only get one shot at impressing potential buyers. A well-staged home ensures they see it in its best light.

Make Staging Easy with Portable Storage

If you’re preparing to sell your home, consider using portable storage to simplify the staging process. It’s the perfect solution for keeping your items safe, out of the way, and ready to move when you are.

Good luck with your home sale and happy staging!