When I launched my photography business, I knew that I needed more space than I had at home. That's when I decided to rent a local storage unit to keep my studio gear organized. I spent a lot of time researching backdrops, staging, racks, and storage tips to keep all of my gear organized and protected when I wasn't shooting. With so many photographers looking for ways to expand their operations, I decided to share my storage tips so that I could possibly help others with their needs. I hope the information here makes it easier for you to organize your equipment and grow your studio.
Storage Snapshots: Photography Equipment
3 Tips For Using A Self-Storage Unit For Business Purposes
Brian Hamilton
If you have a small business, or you run a large office building and you're running out of storage space, consider renting a self-storage unit so you can get rid of some clutter in your building.
Self-storage business units are often in climate-controlled buildings since you may be storing documents and other things that can be damaged by temperature and humidity extremes. However, if you have a landscaping or similar business, you might prefer an outdoor storage unit that's easier to access since your equipment may not need climate control. Here are three tips for using a self-storage unit for your business's purposes.
1. Plan How You'll Fill The Unit
Decide in advance what you'll put in your storage unit and how you'll pack small things. This helps you plan how to store and stack totes and boxes so your unit is easy to navigate. Put tall and big equipment in the back if you don't plan to use them often. Put boxes and smaller items on shelves so they're easy to see and go through if you need to pick up some supplies or documents.
You may need to bring in an organizational unit that has shelves and drawers to help you keep things organized. If you'll be going in and out of the unit frequently to get things, being organized is essential or else you'll waste time sorting through boxes to find what you need.
2. Use Boxes And Totes With Lids
If you know you won't need to open a box while it's in storage, you can use a cardboard box and tape the top shut so it stays flat. If you'll need to get things out of the boxes, then consider using cardboard or plastic boxes that have lids that snap shut.
This ensures the tops of the boxes stay flat so they can stack without fear of toppling over. Also, be sure to label every box that goes in the storage unit so you can tell what's inside without having to open up the box just to look around.
3. Rent A Unit With Plenty Of Space
Self-storage units come in different sizes. If you want to be conservative, you can rent a small unit and pack it full. However, it's easier to manage your supplies and stored belongings if the unit is large enough to allow you to walk around and get to your things. Plus, having extra space is handy in case you need temporary storage that you hadn't planned on.
Before you sign up for a self-storage unit, ask about the details of the contract when it comes to how you make payments, what happens if a payment is late, how you cancel your contract, what is not allowed in the unit, the days and hours you can access your unit, and the type of lock you should buy.
Self-storage is a big help for your business if your building or office is running out of room. You can't keep clutter in your building or you might violate fire codes. Instead, move your excess supplies, inventory, and stored goods to a storage unit and give your employees the space they need to work effectively.
For more information, reach out to a self-storage company near you.
Share