Placing belongings in a storage unit protects them throughout the year, including during hurricane season. However, these months require some extra preparation to ensure nothing gets damaged. Before a hurricane hits, practice these tips for storing and protecting items.

How to Keep Items Secure in a Storage Unit

1. Select an Indoor Unit

Choose an indoor unit within a concrete facility over an outdoor version with only one door between your belongings and the elements. A fortified indoor storage unit reduces the chances of wind and rain damage, unlike an outdoor unit where water might seep in, causing irreversible harm.

2. Place Items in Plastic Bins

Keep your belongings in sealable plastic bins over cardboard boxes since plastic doesn't absorb water. This will keep your items safe from moisture and mold and mildew that grows in dark, damp environments. To streamline the stacking process, purchase bins in the same sizes.

3. Use Pallet Boards

Provide your belongings with further protection from ground-related moisture with pallets and weatherproof coverings, such as tarps. Place the covers over the pallets before stacking stored items for the best results. If you're storing furniture, ensure the pallets can accommodate the weight to avoid crashes that damage nearby objects.

4. Make Pre- & Post-Storm Visits

If possible, visit your storage unit before the storm to check that everything is secure and take out anything you want or need. Also, find time to visit the unit after the storm to ensure everything is safe and free of moisture damage. The sooner you make a post-storm visit, the less likely anything that has sustained water damage will develop mildew.

Whether you need to protect your belongings this hurricane season or all year, contact American Self Storage. With many convenient facility locations, this company offers climate- and non-climate-controlled units, as well as boat and RV storage. For more information on their options, visit their website.