Service | Storage Unit | U-haul

Altama Storage Tips

Visit our facility. Bring a list of what you plan to store so our manager can help you determine the correct size for your needs. You don’t want to pay for a space that is larger than you need, but neither do you want to run out of space. Measure larger items before you rent, to help you better estimate the size unit you need.
Read the lease before signing it. Be aware of our policies on moving out, paying the rent, late charges, credit cards and other important information.
If you lose your key, only the tenant can have locks cut. List your spouse or anyone else you want to have this authority.
Be aware of your surroundings when you are in your unit. If you see a potential problem or anything suspicious, alert the manager or call 911.
Moving out? Schedule your mover 30-45 days in advance.
If you are using a moving company, find out what size truck they will be using to determine if your unit will be accessible to that truck. Most moving companies charge more the farther they carry your items.

Plan how you will arrange your items in the storage unit. Leave an aisle for easier access to the rear of the unit and leave a small space between your belongings and the storage unit walls.
Store frequently used items at the front of the unit to avoid time-consuming searches.
Use freestanding shelves to help organize your unit.
Group similar items together and label the boxes accordingly.
Put heavier boxes on the bottom and the lighter ones on top to prevent boxes from being crushed.
Protect your items by covering them with moving pads, sheets, plastic covers (climate-controlled units only), or light blankets. Storage is subject to dust.
Use climate-controlled storage for valuable furniture, heirlooms, records, etc. Climate-controlled units are dust and temperature-controlled.
Wooden items may be sensitive to moisture; wax them before storage.
Make sure all appliances are clean and dry before storage. Leave appliances slightly ajar to prevent mildew.
Move large appliances in an upright position. Watch out for external coils on the back of major appliances. Never put the hand truck strap on top of coils.

Use the inside of appliances and drawers to store smaller items.
Break down large items and electronics like tables, bed frames, televisions and personal computers. Keep hardware and cords in plastic bags and color code them to the primary item.
Store couches on end and stack chairs seat to seat, if possible.
Use paper pads between the items when stacking furniture, to avoid scratching. Cover all fabrics to protect from dust.
Use bubble wrap or unprinted paper to wrap breakables, taping after wrapping.
Store mirrors and paintings on end, not flat.
Pack dishes, saucers and platters on their edge. Nestle cups and bowls, cushion with dishtowels, potholders, or plain newsprint. (Never use printed newspaper.)
Store clothing and draperies in wardrobe boxes or on hangers to retain their original shapes.
Keep out-of-season clothes accessible; you may have your belongings in storage longer than anticipated.
Rub a small amount of machine oil on metal tools, bicycles and equipment to prevent rusting.
Drain and clean all debris from all equipment before storing. Empty/drain gasoline from lawnmowers, etc.
Check your unit once a month.

Do not store any food items. This will prevent any unwanted “guests.” Food is not allowed, per your lease.
Do not pack your boxes so that they are too heavy to carry, especially boxes of books.
Do not assume your homeowner's or renter’s insurance will cover your belongings while in storage. Check your policy. Storage facilities do not insure your belongings.

Do not give out your password, gate code or any information to anyone who is not listed on your account.
Do not use printed newspaper to wrap items. The ink may smudge and stain items.
Do not forget to clean appliances before you store them.
Do not store any toxins or flammables such as paint, oil, or gasoline. This is not allowed per the lease and Georgia State self-storage laws.