Whether you’re renting your first unit or you’ve been storing off-site for years, even a seasoned homeowner (and part-time geek/fur-daddy) can fall into the same pitfalls when using a self-storage unit. Here are 5 common self storage mistakes and how you can avoid them—with some geeky logic and pet-friendly smarts.
One of the biggest mistakes is picking a unit that’s too big (wasting money) or too small (overcrowded, items damaged). Before committing, make a rough inventory: furniture, boxes, hobby gear, pet supplies. Use size guides (e.g., 5×10, 10×10, 10×20) and compare costs. Overestimate a bit for growth—but don’t buy a warehouse if you just need closet-level space.
As discussed above, assuming a standard unit is fine when your items are sensitive is risky. If you store electronics, leather furniture, pet-related gear, or archival items, go with climate controlled from the start.
Many people just dump boxes in and shut the door. But stacking poorly, not labeling, or leaving heavy items up high can lead to damage. To avoid: stack heavy items at the bottom, label everything, disassemble bulky items, use sturdy containers.
A common oversight: storing everything tight against the door or with no walkway. When you go back months later needing an item, you’ll face a mountain of boxes. Solution: design your layout so you can reach daylight. Leave a small corridor or put frequently accessed items near the front.
Storage units aren’t “set it and forget it” always. Check:
Gate access hours and control mechanisms (keypad, camera)
Lighting in the facility and inside the unit
Cleanliness and pest control (especially if you’ve got pet gear in boxes)
Insurance or coverage for your stored items (check your homeowner’s policy or ask the facility)
Being proactive here saves stress later.
Since you’re a computer geek: use a simple spreadsheet or even an app to track what you’ve stored, photograph key items, note the box numbers and contents. This way, when you ask “which box is the spare monitor in?”, you can answer in seconds instead of digging.
By avoiding these five common mistakes, you’ll protect your belongings, save money, and get the most value from your storage unit. Treat your space like an extension of your home — clean, organized, and easy to access when you need it.
Ready to Store Smarter?
At TGI Storage Bloomington, we make self-storage simple and secure. Whether you need short-term or long-term storage, our team can help you find the perfect unit size and setup for your needs.
👉 Contact us today at (309) 490-9100 or visit us in person to see why our customers trust us to keep their belongings safe year-round!