Storage & Moving Blog | Bargain Storage

Inventory Overload? How to Store Your Inventory Off Site.

Resources

Did you recently complete the 2017 Flip Challenge or are you a seasoned FBA merchant? Possibly you own a local retail space. In any case, you’re probably running out of space to store all of your inventory. With Bargain Storage, finding space to keep your inventory safe and organized is a cinch. Here are a few storage tips to help you manage that inventory overload. Keeping organized As your inventory grows and grows, it is important to implement a system that helps you keep track of all of your items. Storing items by shelf and bin number is a great way to keep track of where you’ve placed your inventory. This strategy ensures that you do not end up wasting time hunting things down and helps keep your inventory organized since you wont be rummaging through things to find that one item you just sold. Another tip is to keep hot items towards the front of your storage space in order to easily gain access to those items. Shipping Station If you’re looking to be an efficient flipper, you’ll need an efficient shipping setup. Organize boxes and packaging material so that it’s easy to reach. Utilize a cutting mat with a built in ruler and grid to easily measure small boxes and modify boxes alike. In addition, utilize a professional digital scale to confirm weights and to reduce overpaying for shipping. Think Big Make sure you estimate your growth accurately. Nothing is worse than moving from one storage unit to another every few months. Planning ahead for your growth and finding a storage unit that is big enough for the long run will be the best business decision you’ve ever made. Insurance You can’t predict the future and that’s why it’s important to protect your investment. Check with your insurance provider to confirm your insurance policy covers your inventory stored off site. Find the best storage for your inventory at Bargain Storage today! ...

Bargain Storage
December 5th, 2024

---

Big Life Changes Made Easy with Self-Storage [Checklist]

Resources

View or Download the PDF Life has a way of keeping us on our toes. Whether it’s a career change, an addition to the family, a new relationship status, or a step into a new chapter of life, there are always changes happening. People are flocking to places like Phoenix, Arizona, Houston, Texas, and the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area. There are many reasons for this migration, but here are some of the most common draws: New Jobs and Company Transfers: Without a doubt, business is booming in the Southwest. Dozens of Fortune 500 companies are bringing their corporate offices to places like Fort Worth and Houston. Low property and business taxes are drawing both established and start-up businesses to Phoenix. These areas are becoming hubs for industries like healthcare, energy, transportation, telecommunications, and more. The expansion means hundreds of jobs, which in turn means hundreds of transplants to the area from all over the country. Outdoor Living and Adventures: Both the weather and the wide-open spaces draw adventurers to these areas. Since places like Phoenix, Houston, and Fort Worth offer mostly sunny days throughout the year, they can support the outdoor lifestyles of those looking to explore state parks, lakes, rivers, and forests in these states. Active Arizonans and Texans can find themselves enjoying this weather by being on the water, in the mountains, on the miles of bike and hiking trails, and more. Economy: Phoenix, Houston, and Fort Worth have booming housing environments and economic climates. Costs are comparatively low for housing, transportation, energy, and entertainment. The low cost of living overall is one of the biggest reasons people are moving in droves to these areas. Retirement: For all of these reasons, Arizona and Texas are still some of the most popular places to retire. The hundreds of retirement communities make independence and adventure possible for even those who are in their later years. More retirees than ever are deciding to relocate and they are going mostly to areas like Phoenix, Houston, and Fort Worth. Transition ...

Steve Reed
December 5th, 2024

---

Move Your Kitchen to Storage, No Problem

Resources

Packing up your kitchen is probably one of the most tedious rooms to pack up, but no need to panic!  With a little planning and a few helpful tips, you’ll be on your way to moving your stuff to storage in no time flat. Just like any job you’ll need the right tools.  Here’s our suggestion for a regular sized kitchen: 6 to 8 large storage boxes (for added strength, be sure to double tape the bottom of the box) – Use this sized box for small appliances, plastic-ware, mixing bowls, etc. 10 or so medium sized storage boxes – food from the cupboards, cookbooks, etc. 5 or 6 small storage boxes – flatware, cooking tools, canned goods, etc. Specialty boxes like cell kits are also available at a little higher price, but are terrific for fragile items like stemware. Newspaper, non-print paper, bubble-wrap and tissue paper (I personally like using plain white tissue paper for packing because it’s clean, easy to work with and eco-friendly) Packing tape Sharpie marker pens Make a Plan First off, it’s very easy to underestimate how much time it will take to pack up your kitchen.  Be sure to give yourself ample time so you don’t end up rushing and not packing properly. As a good rule, add 4 hours to however much time you think it will take.  For example, if you think it will take you 6 hours, add 4 more for a total of 10 hours.  Besides, it’s better to overestimate and possibly be pleasantly surprised if it takes less time. Packing is a great time to get rid of stuff you no longer use or need. Have a couple of boxes ready and keep close by while you’re packing, one for charity and one for trash.  And you’ll end up packing less! If you’re not moving the entire contents of your kitchen to storage, be sure to label a few boxes for those particular items. Begin with stuff that you don’t use as often, you’re “good” china, fancy glassware, bread-maker, etc.  Wrap them with your ...

Steve Reed
December 5th, 2024

---

How to Prepare Your Seasonal Storage Items for Summer

Resources

It’s the time of year again when we prepare for the outdoor activities, family travel, hot afternoons, and the late nights of summer. For some of us, that means an actual relocation, such as heading home from college or getting ready to migrate back up north from the winter home. For others, it just means that life is going to do that thing life does a couple of times a year: Change.At Bargain Storage, we offer seasonal storage for any situation. For many people, preparing for summer means making space for all of the extra activities and extra people summer brings. For business owners it may mean changing out seasonal inventory or storing winter displays. For busy parents, it may mean swapping out ALL that winter gear for ALL that summer gear. Regardless of the particular situation, you will find storage spaces with us to fit any need. Seasonal Storage Items Your first decision as summer approaches will be what to store. We always recommend a purge of unneeded items first. As you go through things, keep in mind the size of storage unit you want. Sizes range from closet, to room, to garage as needed. Also, remember that summer in your neck of the woods may require climate-controlled storage spaces to avoid moisture buildup.Here are some common seasonal items commonly kept in self-storage: Winter shirts, pants, and boots Coats and Jackets Snowboards Skis Snow boots Snowshoes Ice Skates Summer Storage Tips As you prepare for your summer, we would like to offer these safe self-storage tips as they relate to common seasonal storage situations: Clothes: To store winter clothes, go through them first and remove anything from the pockets. It is highly recommended that clothes be washed prior to storage as well. Clothes store better when they are folded, rather than hung, because folding minimizes stretching. Special Materials: Leather shoes, purses, and jackets should be cleaned and rubbed with conditioning oil to prevent drying and cracking. Fur needs to stay cool, so climate-controlled is best, whenever possible. Wool should be professionally dry ...

Steve Reed
December 4th, 2024

---

How Secure is Your Self-Storage Facility? [Infographic]

Resources

View or Download the Infographic If you’re in need of a self-storage facility, it’s important to research pricing,  location, amenities, and sizes.  In addition, knowing which security features the facility offers should be one of your highest priorities. Why self-storage security is important You have worked hard for what you have, and your personal belongings deserve to be kept safe and secure, no matter what. We take the safety and security of the items you’ve chosen to store at Bargain Storage seriously and are committed to keeping each facility secure. Here, our professionals will provide the information you need to make an informed decision. What type of security features should you look for? From the very get go, you should feel confident your belongings will be safe. Some things you should look for are if the entryway is gated with a secure password or keypad code. Also, make sure video cameras have been installed, the site and units are well-lit, and the facility is clean and well-maintained. Another thing to take note of is the landscaping; shrubs, grass, and bushes should be well maintained and not obscuring views. How do you feel visiting your self-storage unit? Yes, it’s important your items are safe, but  you should feel safe as well! You shouldn’t feel uncomfortable when visiting your storage unit, regardless the time of day. Be aware of your surroundings and do not let anyone follow you through the front gate or into your unit. If someone is acting peculiar, or you notice any suspicious activity, report it immediately. There should be no loitering around any facility at any time. Bargain Storage provides clients with many security features, including: Video recording: We utilize a state-of-the-art 24-hour surveillance video system that effectively tracks activity throughout each facility. Personal ID entry system: To gain access to the site or a storage facility, each person must enter unique personal identification at the gate. If this is not entered, the gate remains locked and entry is denied. Fully-fenced perimeter: In addition to a secure front gate requiring ...

Steve Reed
November 26th, 2024

---

Can a Tiny House Fit in a Self-Storage Unit?

Resources

The tiny house movement has captivated prospective home buyers around the country in recent years. Tiny house living allows people to live simply and more affordably, while giving them a unique place to call home.  Many people choose to buy a plot of land in the city on which to build their home, while others choose to have a tiny home on wheels. Tiny houses can be inexpensive and appeal to those who cannot afford a traditional house or rising rent prices. The average price of a tiny home is $23,000 in the United States, which makes it an affordable option for people of varying ages. In Tempe, the average rent has jumped by $200 per month since 2015 making it the second most expensive in metro Phoenix. Owning a piece of property, rather than paying increasing rental costs, has made tiny home living very popular. In Texas, this option has increased in popularity. A recent study reported Texas was one of the top five states with the most tiny homes. However, transitioning into a tiny home is not always based on finances. For many, it is an opportunity to simplify their lifestyle. For others, it is due to a desire to contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing their carbon footprint. Smaller houses have been shown to cut life cycle emissions by 36%. In addition, many are crafted from recycled materials. Regardless of the reason for choosing tiny-home living, self-storage can be truly beneficial before your move, or when your home is being built or remodeled. How can self-storage make your move or remodel easier? Self-storage allows you to keep furniture and other household items in pristine condition during a remodel or a move. It’s also an affordable way to keep things in one place and easy to access should you need them. For people looking to store carpentry items or other work equipment during their remodel, a self-storage unit can be a great choice. It’s important to follow best practices regardless of what items you ...

Steve Reed
November 25th, 2024

---

A Touch of Luxury: How Kitchen Cabinets & Countertops Emphasize Your Kitchen

Resources

When it comes to making your kitchen feel like a special place, two key players steal the spotlight: cabinets and countertops. They are the dynamic duo that makes your kitchen look awesome but also makes everything work smoothly. So, stay with us as we take you on a journey on how to make your kitchen look more luxurious yet functional. Craftsmanship and Durability: Making Things Strong and Lasting In a fancy kitchen, the cabinets and countertops are made from really good materials. Solid wood cabinets, known for their robust nature contribute to the kitchen's strength but also exude a timeless aesthetic.  Additionally, countertops crafted from natural stones such as granite or marble not only enhance the kitchen's visual appeal with their luxurious appearance but also boast durability, ensuring a prolonged lifespan. The focus here extends beyond mere aesthetics, emphasizing the importance of selecting materials that guarantee the longevity and enduring charm of the kitchen. Here are some of the features of each material:  Solid Wood Cabinets Strength: Solid wood provides a sturdy foundation for cabinets, ensuring they can withstand daily use and wear. Timeless Aesthetic: The natural beauty of solid wood imparts a timeless and classic look to the cabinets, complementing various kitchen styles. Durability: Resistant to damage and wear, solid wood cabinets contribute to the overall durability of the kitchen. Natural Stone Countertops (e.g., Granite or Marble) Luxurious Appearance: Natural stone countertops add a touch of luxury and sophistication to the kitchen, elevating its visual appeal. Longevity: Granite and marble are renowned for their durability, making them excellent choices for countertops that can withstand the test of time. Minimal Maintenance: These materials are relatively easy to maintain, ensuring the longevity of the countertops with minimal effort from the homeowner. In essence, the combination of solid wood cabinets and natural stone countertops enhances the aesthetic allure of a kitchen but also underscores the commitment to craftsmanship and durability, resulting in a space that remains both strong and visually appealing for an extended period. Enhanced Functionality: Making Things Easy and Convenient Having a ...

Bargain Storage
November 25th, 2024

---

Back to School – The Benefits of Using Self Storage in College [Checklist]

Resources

View or Download the Checklist Summer has come and gone, which means it’s time for college students to move back into the dorms. For a majority of college students, having enough storage space often becomes an issue. As most of you know, dorms are small with little to no storage space. Seriously, where are you supposed to put all your things in that cramped dorm room? Especially if you add a roommate or two, you find yourself suddenly searching for extra storage and space. Moving to and from school can be a crazy time for students. There’s no reason to add extra stress before school starts. College student, meet storage unit! Renting a storage unit is an easy and great option when you’re living in the dorms. A self-storage unit can help reduce clutter and be a convenient and cost-effective storage option. At Bargain Storage, our units can provide college students a safe place to keep their possessions while they’re in school. Here are some ways you can make your college experience better with a self-storage unit. Store clothes seasonally. This will help you gain space in your dorm closet. Move items to storage that you don’t use as much. For example, sports equipment. Store your snowboard, ski’s and bikes so you’ll always be prepared for your favorite outdoor activity. Easier move-in and move-out. Find a self-storage unit near your dorm or campus so it’s easier to get your personal belongings moved into your dorm when you come back at the start of the next year. Don’t sell your car! Rent a storage unit. For some college students, parking is scarce and hard to come by. Forget the hassle of searching for a parking spot of expensive parking garages. Self-storage facilities offer vehicle storage at a much more affordable price. Use the buddy system. If you don’t have enough stuff to fill an entire storage unit, you could consider sharing with a friend to help split the cost. College can be a little hectic at times but it’s ...

Bargain Storage
November 25th, 2024

---

Bargain Storage Names 2020 5-Star Self-Storage Strategic Partners

Resources

At Bargain Storage, we believe that the businesses we partner with influence our success and impact. These collaborations are critical in supporting our goals and company values, so we spend a lot of time seeking out and nurturing professional partnerships that enable us to offer the very best in self-storage, experience and value for our customers, tools for our team, and profit for our owners in Texas and Arizona.  What makes a good Bargain business partner? We look for partners who align with our core values of We Care, Find the Creative Solution, Inspire 5 Star Reviews, and Get the Job Done, are accessible, fast, and who are just a plain pleasure to work with. As we kick off 2021, we’d like to recognize 11 strategic partnerships that have helped us elevate the Bargain Storage brand in 2020. From insurance to land surveyors, signage, photographers, financing, software platforms, security solutions, and more, we are so thankful for our partners’ support and highly recommend them to any business seeking out the services they offer. This 2020 cohort represents a mix of small, local companies and international businesses spanning nine US states — proving not only that behind every successful business is a strong and diverse supporting cast, but also that size or location isn’t a factor as long as you align on the important stuff. Our 2020 5-Star Self-Storage Strategic Partners Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Insurance Brokers Location: Glendale, CA What They Do: US-based global insurance brokerage and risk management firm Why We Love Them: Gallagher is incredibly knowledgeable about our industry, and they’re tenacious at identifying comprehensive insurance programs with the lowest premiums. They work ahead of deadlines — important in the insurance industry! — so that you don’t get caught in a policy you wish you had more time to shop for. Gallagher is responsive and has top-notch service, including a service team (aside from the sales team) that directly handles all the paperwork involved in insurance. To top it off, they were named one of the ...

Bargain Storage
November 25th, 2024

---

Signs of Pest Infestation in Your Storage Unit: What to Look for

Resources

Storage units offer a practical solution to keep your excess belongings safe. However, they can also become a breeding ground for various pests if not properly managed. Recognizing the signs of a pest infestation early on can help you address the problem before it gets out of hand, preventing potential damage to your stored items. Visible Signs of Infestation The first step in identifying a pest infestation in your storage unit is looking for visible signs. These may include: ● Droppings: Many pests, such as rats, mice, and cockroaches, leave droppings in areas they frequent. These are often small, dark, and cylindrical. In the case of rats and mice, the droppings may be scattered, while roaches tend to leave droppings in clusters. ● Gnaw marks: Rats and mice are known for their gnawing behavior. If you notice chew marks on boxes, furniture, or even the walls of the storage unit, it could be a sign of a rodent infestation. ● Nests: Pests like mice and rats often build nests using various materials like paper, fabric, and plant matter. Look for these nests in corners or hidden areas of the unit. Unusual Sounds and Smells Some signs of infestation might not be visible but can be heard or smelled. These can include: ● Scratching or scurrying sounds: Rodents, such as mice and rats, are often active at night. If you're at your storage unit in the evening, you might hear these sounds within the walls or above the ceiling. ● Unpleasant odors: A strong, musty odor can indicate a pest infestation, particularly in the case of mice and rats. Cockroaches also emit a distinct, unpleasant smell. ● Squeaking sounds: Rodents are known to communicate using high-pitched sounds. If you hear such noises, it could be a sign of a rodent infestation. Signs of Insect Infestations Insect infestations can be challenging to spot as many of these pests are quite small. Here are some signs to ...

Sandra Wheeler
July 12th, 2023

---