Bend Storage Tips on How to Pack, Move and Keep It

Moving your stuff and then storing your stuff can be quite the feat. Let us help you along the way by tackling some of the most common things you'll need to consider when making a move to a self-storage unit. Here's a collection of storage tips to get started.

Choosing a Storage Unit

Here are some tips when looking for the storage unit that's right for you:

If you can, take the time to visit the unit prior to renting to ensure it's in an ideal location at the facility and is up to your standards
Analyze the storage cost and storage unit sizes to figure out what square footage you need and what falls within your budget
Ask about the secure storage of your items and the security features so you are comfortable with how well your valuables will be protected
Find out if the facility access works with your schedule; for example, we're accessible from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., seven days a week
Make sure you find out which items are prohibited from being stored for the safety and satisfaction of everyone (food is one of them!)
Find out about the rental terms upfront to be sure they work with your unique circumstances
Ask about arrangements for a moving truck to see if there are any specials you can take advantage of (we offer a free one!)
Be sure moving vans can comfortably get in and out of the facility if you've hired movers
Make sure the storage facility is located in an area that's convenient to you – especially if you make even one trip a month

Storing Vehicles and Toys

If you're considering RV storage, boat storage, car storage or storing some other "toy," here are a few storage tips:

Winterize your RV, boat or vehicle if you're storing outside in a covered spot for the season
Clean the inside and outside thoroughly prior to storing (you may even wax it)
Check fluids, disconnect the battery and adhere to other basic suggestions for long-term vehicle or craft storage

Keep in mind that Bend Secure Storage does not currently offer RV or boat storage. However, both Prineville Secure Storage and Redmond Secure Storage offer spacious parking and storage for your adventure toys.

Storing Delicate Items

While Bend Secure Storage does not currently offer climate-controlled storage, but state-of-the-art climate-controlled storage can be found at Prineville Secure Storage and Redmond Secure Storage. Consider climate-controlled storage if you have any of the following:

Photography, books or artwork
Electronics, appliances, or media
Delicate fabrics (even leather)
Musical instruments
Pharmaceutical supplies

… and more.

Packing Tips

To get the most out of your unit, stay organized with these storage tips:

Make sure the items you want to access most are easy to get to
Leave a walkway if necessary inside the storage unit
Disassemble large furniture and items to make more room
Stack large items on their end for more space (like couches)
Try using the same size box for everything for easy stacking
Make sure you fill your boxes all the way up, and keep them covered while storing
Use the appropriate packing materials inside the boxes
Pack like-items together, especially to preserve fragile items
Place the heaviest boxes on the bottom of stacks
Stack boxes on top of open spaces like tables
Use labels so it's easy to find what you're looking for

There's certainly a lot to think of in a move or self storage situation – we hope these storage tips help with packing or storing! When you're ready to make that move, we also hope you'll consider our storage units in Bend, Oregon.