Who you self store with is more important than how much it costs. The facility should be a member of the self storage association and have client representatives that are knowledgeable and courteous, the surrounding area should be clear of litter, cameras should be in all areas of the facility, high fencing surrounding the facility should be in good condition, you should notice hallway lighting and no damage to any doors.

The self storage locations should use the same lock on all of the doors, this is for security reasons, every storage unit will be anonymous. Do they have individually alarmed units?

When storing valuables such as art and antiques, a climate controlled self storage site is your best bet. The temperature changes that occur in Canada could expand and contract your valuable pieces and could ruin them.

Many of the self storage facilities offer mailboxes. This temporary or permanent address can be rented in a number of sizes. Most storage facilities will accept your parcels or letters on your behalf and deliver them directly to your mailbox or unit. Why rent a mailbox? These are some of the reasons someone might rent a mailbox. You're a snowbird, flying to a warm climate for a month or longer and all your mail is piling up waiting for your friend to take it home for you, you're moving and renovating for awhile, bills might become late when you've sent in a re-direct slip, or you're a salesperson and would prefer you work bills don't get mixed in with your home bills.

When you are ready to store your items, make a list and label your boxes. Put your most important items in the front and work back remembering to keep an aisle open to retrieve boxes at the back. Take advantage of the many items they usually sell in house to protect your things. Plastic furniture covers, blankets, boxes, tape and etc. These things will keep all of your precious possessions just the way you left them when you are ready to retrieve them.

When you are ready to reserve a unit, client representatives will guide you through the different sized storage units and locations and find the one best suited to your needs. Putting away an appliance needs a little extra care. Make sure to take the time to winterize any major appliances so when you are in need of them, they will be in pristine condition. The refrigerator should be washed on all surfaces with baking soda and water, dry thoroughly, place a box of partially opened baking soda in the freezer. Vacuum the motor and fan. Leave the door open a crack with a towel and your ready.
The washer and dryer are a little different. You still must wash and dry the interior and exterior and leave a towel in the doors to circulate air. The washer however, you should put antifreeze in the tub and spin for 30 seconds (this can be done manually). When restarting the washer, be sure to run through a full cycle to allow the antifreeze to exit the system.
Most people forget to vacuum their rugs on both sides before storing. This little chore will deter any pests from smelling any crumbs left behind. Clean all your bedding and cloth goods to prevent any stains from setting in.

Your self storage provider should be a valuable source of information for you. They should always be eager to help in any way.



Self Storage Toronto is committed to providing you with a clean secure environment, knowledgeable staff and peace of mind. With locations in Richmond Hill, Mississauga, East and West of Toronto, and in Guelph, Canada.