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Boat Storage: a Guide for Self-Storage

Speed boat going fast

We understand that your boat is a significant investment at South Rock Storage. That's why we offer secure storage units to help you protect your investment. Whether you need to store your boat for the winter or you're looking for long-term storage, we have a unit that will fit your needs.

As you prepare to store with South Rock Storage, follow our helpful guide for proper storage to ensure your boat is ready for the next season.

Please note that these are our recommendations. Do your research, and consult your owner's manual for specific instructions.

Clean your boat

To prepare your boat for storage, we recommend cleaning it thoroughly and drying it completely. This will help to prevent mold and mildew from forming. Be sure to clean all surfaces, including the hull, deck, upholstery, and carpets.

If you have a canvas cover, clean it and ensure it is dry before storing it.

Remove all items from the boat

Before you store your boat, be sure to remove all items from the boat, including life jackets, fishing gear, and any other personal belongings. This will help to protect your belongings and prevent them from being damaged during storage.

Drain all fluids

It's crucial to drain all fluids from your boat before storing it. This includes fuel, oil, and coolant. If possible, open all hatches and compartments to allow air to circulate.

Be sure to consult your owner's manual for specific instructions on how to do this.

Use a dehumidifier

If you are storing your boat in an enclosed space, it is essential to take measures to prevent mold and mildew from forming. One way to do this is to use a dehumidifier to help keep the air dry.

Mold and mildew need moist conditions to grow, so by keeping the air dry and circulating, you can help to discourage their growth. Dehumidifiers work by removing moisture from the air, which can help prevent mold and mildew from taking hold. In addition, it is important to ensure that the space is well-ventilated.

Remove the battery

When you're getting your boat ready for storage, one of the most important things to do is to remove the battery. If you leave the battery in the boat, it's likely to leak and cause damage. The best way to avoid this is to remove the battery and store it in a cool, dry place.

If you don't have a place to store the battery, you can always disconnect it from the boat and leave it outside. Just be sure to cover it so that it doesn't get wet or damaged by the elements. Taking these simple precautions can help prevent your battery from leaking and damaging your boat.

Cover your boat

If you're storing your boat for an extended time, we recommend covering it with a tarp. This will help to protect it from the elements and keep it clean while in storage. Tarps and shrink wrap are relatively inexpensive, and they can save you a lot of time and money in the long run by protecting your boat from the sun, wind, and rain.

Repair damages before storage

As the boating season closes, it's important to consider how you'll store your boat for the winter. While some people opt to keep their boat in the water year-round, this can be costly and cause wear and tear on the hull.

For most people, storing the boat on land makes more sense. However, simply putting your boat in storage is not enough. It would be best if you took the time to prepare your boat for storage properly. This means fixing anything that is broken, worn, or damaged. By taking care of repairs now, you can avoid long wait times and higher costs later. Plus, you'll be able to hit the water as soon as the weather warms up!

Double check your owner's manual

Many people believe that their insurance will cover any damage that occurs to their boat. However, most carriers only provide coverage for accidents and acts of God, not damages caused by a lack of maintenance. You could face a hefty repair bill if your boat is not properly winterized or stored.

Luckily, winterizing and storing your boat doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. Taking a few simple precautions can help ensure that your boat stays in good condition all season long. Just be sure to consult the owner's manual for specific instructions on how to winterize and store your particular model.

Prepare your boat to store

While the requirements to store a boat are different in every case, some best practices apply to all. Please consult with the owner's manual specific to your boat, but we recommend the following at a minimum.

Be sure to give your boat a thorough cleaning inside and out. Besides cleaning your boat, this gives you time to discover anything that might need repair before putting your boat away until the spring. After cleaning your boat, apply a rust inhibitor to your steering and control cables.

Choose the right storage facility

Regarding boat storage, there are a few things to consider to ensure your boat is adequately taken care of:

  • First, you'll want to make sure the facility has proper security in place to deter any would-be thieves.
  • Next, you'll want to confirm that the storage unit is big enough to accommodate your boat.
  • Finally, you'll want to ask about the facility's policy on storing boats during inclement weather. This is important to know in case you need to make alternate arrangements for your boat in the event of a storm.

By taking the time to find a storage facility that meets all of your needs, you can rest assured that your boat will be safe and sound until you're ready to hit the open water again.

Being in the business since 2006, South Rock Storage understands the importance of finding the proper storage solution for your boat. That's why we offer secure, spacious storage units that can accommodate boats of all sizes.

The above tips on preparing your boat for storage are only recommendations. Make sure to consult your owner's instruction manual for specific guidelines on how to prepare your boat for storage.

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The Benefits of Storing Your Belongings in a Military Storage Unit

Storage units in Wichita, Kansas are a great way to store all of your belongings. Find out why a military storage unit is the best choice for you.

The Benefits of Storing Your Belongings in a Military Storage UnitYou may consider a military storage unit if you're looking for a safe and secure place to store your belongings as an armed forces member. This type of storage offers many options, including 24/7 security, climate control, and fire protection. Here are some of the top reasons to choose a military storage solution for your storage needs.Reasons You Need Storage While in the MilitaryIn the military, you know that storage is helpful and sometimes essential. Here are a few reasons why: Military deployment When you are in the military, deploying to a location far away from your home is always possible. Deployments can be complicated because you must leave all your belongings behind. Fortunately, military storage options can help you keep your belongings safe while you are away.Military deployment can be stressful, and worrying about your belongings only adds stress. This storage option can give you peace of mind knowing that your belongings are safe and sound.Storage options are also great for storing things you may not need immediately but still want to keep, such as seasonal clothing or holiday decorations. This way, you can declutter your living space and make it more comfortable when you return home.PCS move You may need storage if you are in the military and have to move due to a PCS (Permanent Change of Station).Military families have to move an average of every 2-3 years, making it challenging as you accumulate a lot of belongings. Storage is an excellent solution for military personnel who need a place to keep their belongings while moving.Benefits of Military Storage Unit When you're in the military, you have to be prepared to move at a moment's notice. That's why military self-storage is such a valuable resource. With military self-storage, you can safely and securely store your belongings while away on deployment or training.Here are some of the benefits of using military self-storage: Month-to-month leasing flexibility As anyone in the military knows, things can change at a moment's notice. That's why month-to-month leases for self-storage solutions can be a lifesaver for service members and their families. With no long-term commitment, military self-storage can provide the perfect solution for storing belongings during a PCS move or deployment.There are many other benefits of military self-storage as well. Units are typically available in a wide range of sizes, so you can find one that fits your needs. And most facilities offer military discounts to active duty and retired service members.So if you're looking for a flexible, affordable solution for your storage needs, look no further than military self-storage.Range of military storage unit sizes You may have to move around a lot in the military. Frequent moves can make finding a place to store your belongings challenging. However, self-storage solutions come in various sizes, so you can find one that fits your needs.Smaller units are great for storing items you don't regularly need, such as seasonal clothing or holiday decorations. You can choose a larger unit if you have more oversized items, like furniture. And if you need to store sensitive materials, like medical records or financial documents, climate-controlled units are available.The wide range of sizes benefits military self-storage because it allows you to find a unit that fits your needs.Affordable storage units with military discounts When you're in the military, you move around a lot. And that can mean a lot of hassle when it comes to storing your belongings. But self-storage units, like South Rock Storage, with discounts for the military, can help make your life a little easier.Here are just a few of the benefits of having affordable storage solutions offering military storage discounts: You can store your belongings safely and securely while deployed.You don't have to worry about finding a place to store your belongings when you move to a new duty station.You can access your belongings 24/7, so you don't have to worry about them being in someone else's possession.You can request climate-controlled storage units.Vehicle storage for the military Military self-storage has many benefits, including vehicle storage for the military. Storing a vehicle is an excellent benefit for military members who need to keep their cars stored while they are away on deployment or training.This type of storage for the military can be a great benefit because it can help keep your vehicle safe while you are away. It can also be a great way to save money on storage fees because many self-storage facilities offer discounts for military personnel.Another benefit of vehicle storage for the military is that it can help you keep your vehicle in good condition. Many self-storage facilities have climate-controlled units that can help protect your vehicle from the elements.Conveniently located next to McConnell AFBWhen looking to store your belongings, South Rock Storage's location next to McConnell Air Force Base is a benefit of military self-storage. Here are a few reasons why: You won't have to go far to retrieve your belongings when you need them.You can easily store things like holiday decorations and out-of-season clothes without having to drive a long distance to do so.If you're deployed or have to move suddenly, you can rest assured that we are looking after your belongings.Simplify the Moving ProcessAs a military family, you're used to moving around. But, that doesn't make the process any less stressful. It can be even more challenging to keep track of everything when you're constantly on the go. That's why it's vital to simplify the moving process as much as possible.One way to do this is using military storage, which can help you declutter your home and make it easier to pack up and move when the time comes. It's also a great way to keep belongings safe while deployed or stationed overseas.Military storage units are the answer if you're looking for a hassle-free way to move your belongings. It will make your life a lot easier and help you stay organized while constantly on the go.Moving Tips for Military FamiliesAs military families are well aware, moving can be a part of life. While exploring a new place can be exciting, it can also be stressful.Here are a few moving ideas to help make the transition smoother for everyone involved.Start by decluttering your home. Decluttering will not only make packing more straightforward, but it will also help you save on storage costs.Make sure to pack essential items separately from everything else. This way, you'll have what you need right away and won't have to rummage through boxes in search of specific items.Utilize self-storage, if possible, as a great way to keep your belongings safe and out of the way while you're settling into your new home.Give yourself plenty of time to plan and prepare for the move.Military Storage TipsIf you are in the military or have a family member who is, you know that storage can be a challenge. Here are some suggestions to help you make the most of your space.Have a plan. Decide what you need to store and where it will go. Just as in the field, having a plan will help you make the most of your space and avoid clutter.Use storage containers. Invest in good-quality storage containers to protect your belongings from dust, moisture, and pests.Label everything. Labeling will help you find things quickly and keep track of what is where.Keep it clean. Regular cleaning will help organize your storage area and prevent mold and mildew from growing.Check for pests regularly.Remember Your Rights and Reasonable ExpectationsWhen military families move, there are certain things they should expect from their storage unit facility, and in particular situations, they may be protected by Federal laws.Here are three things you should expect from your facility: Military families have the right to a safe and secure storage facility.Military families have the right to have their belongings stored for a reasonable period of time.Military families have the right to receive compensation if their belongings are damaged or lost while in storage.How does the SCRA affect your storage?When active duty military members enter into storage contracts, they could receive protections under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA). This federal law provides certain protections for service members in particular situations, including a limit on how much storage companies can charge for late fees.Under the SCRA conditions, storage companies are only allowed to charge up to 6% annually on any unpaid balances owed by service members. So, if you have a balance of $100 that you haven't paid in 3 months, the most the storage company can charge you is $1.80 in late fees ($0.60 per month).In addition, the SCRA has, in particular circumstances, guidelines regarding the storage company's ability to auction off service members' units who are behind on their payments. This protection applies to self-storage units and those part of a moving company's services.It is wise to familiarize yourself with the details to see if you qualify under SCRA for protection and benefits.Final ThoughtsStoring your belongings in a military storage unit has many benefits. You can rest assured that your belongings will be safe and secure, and you can take advantage of the discounts available to military members.You can simply pick up your belongings and leave when ready to move—no need to worry about finding a new storage solution or packing and moving your belongings.If you are in Wichita, KS, and looking for a storage facility near McConnell Air Force Base, contact South Rock Storage today! The company is a proud provider of storage and moving services to the military community, and we'd love to tell you about our discounts for military members.
A woman takes notes on the boxes she's packing before self storage at South Rock Storage

Storage Tips: How to pack your belongings for Self Storage

Packing up all your belongings can be a daunting task. Here are five steps you should follow when storing your stuff in a self storage unit.

Self-storage can be an excellent option for people who need to store some extra belongings. Knowing how to pack correctly is one of those storage unit hacks you'll soon master. Here are a few storage tips to get you started. Here are 5 steps for packing your belongings for self-storage. Step 1: Sort through your belongings The first step to simplifying your life is to sort through your belongings. This can be daunting, but it's essential to take the time to go through everything you own and decide what you need and what you can donate or sell. Start by sorting your belongings into categories: clothing, furniture, electronics, etc. Then, within each category, separate the items into "must keep," "maybe keep," and "get rid of" piles. Be ruthless when sorting; if you haven't used an item in the past year, it's probably time to get rid of it. Making a list of things you need and don't will help you sort through your belongings. Once you've gone through your belongings, take the time to organize them in a way that makes the most sense to you. For instance, some like to organize their items by type (clothing, electronics, etc.), while others want to organize by how often they plan on needing the item. Step 2: Choose the right packing materials Packing for a move can be stressful. There are many options, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. One of the most critical decisions is what packing materials to use. The most popular packing material is bubble wrap. Bubble wrap is inexpensive and can be found at most stores. It is also effective at protecting items from damage. However, it can be bulky and takes up a lot of space. Another option is packing peanuts. Packing peanuts are also inexpensive and can be found at most stores. They are not as effective as bubble wrap at protecting items from damage, but they take up less space than bubble wrap. Another option is foam padding. Foam padding is more expensive than bubble wrap or packing peanuts, but it offers the best protection for your belongings. It is also less bulky than bubble wrap and takes up less space than packing peanuts. Cost: $4 to $15 for a roll of bubble wrap; $1 to $3 for packing peanuts; and about $8 to $12 for foam padding. Step 3: Pack for self-storage by creating a system When packing for a move, it is essential to pack your belongings systematically. This will help ensure that everything is packed securely and that you can find what you need when you unpack. Here are some tips for packing your belongings systematically: Begin by packing items you will not need until after you have moved, such as winter clothes or holiday decorations. Next, pack the items you will need immediately upon arriving at your new home, such as toiletries and bedding. Pack the large items last, such as furniture and appliances. Make sure to label each box with a description of its contents. This will make it easier to find things when you unpack. Step 4: Label your boxes and containers When it comes to packing for a move, an organizational system is key. If you take the time to label your boxes and containers, unpacking will be a breeze. Here are a few tips on how to label your boxes: Label each box with its contents. This will help you quickly find what you need when you're unpacking. Use different-colored markers or tape to distinguish between boxes that contain fragile items and those that don't. This way, you'll know which boxes to handle with caution. Label the outside of each box as well as the bottom. This way, you'll be able to tell which box is which even if they're turned upside down. Make sure all of your labels are legible and easy to read. This will make it easier to locate items you need. Step 5: Transport your belongings to the storage unit If you are in the process of moving and have a lot of belongings that need to be stored, a storage unit may be the perfect solution. Transporting all of your belongings to the storage unit can seem daunting, but with a bit of preparation, it can be done quickly and easily. Here are a few tips to help make a move go smoothly: Start by packing up the smaller items first. This will make it easier to move around larger pieces and furniture. Use sturdy boxes or bins that can hold up against being stacked. Pack each box tightly, making sure there is no extra space inside. This will help keep your belongings safe during transport. Label each box with its contents, so you know what is inside when unpacking them at the storage unit. Use a blanket or heavy-duty plastic wrap to wrap furniture and other large items that could get damaged during transport. Make sure to label the boxes, so you know what is in each one. This will help keep you from getting mixed up when unpacking at the storage unit. Final Thoughts Thank you for reading our guide on how to pack your belongings for self-storage. South Rock Storage is the place to go if you're looking for a reliable, honest, and affordable storage unit in Wichita, Kansas, for your belongings and furniture. We offer a wide selection of Wichita storage unit sizes and features, and we can help you find the right one for your needs. So call us at 316-618-8282 or fill out our online form to get started.
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FAQ

You have questions, we have answers.

When can I move in? 

If there is a storage space available that meets your specific storage needs you can move in anytime.

How much notice needs to be given before I move out? 

All contracts are month-to-month. However, we do require a 10 day notice before you move out.

What type of documentation do I need to provide in order to rent a space? 

We require a government issued photo ID (example: driver’s license, state ID, or passport)

How do I make a payment? 

VISA, MasterCard and Discover (credit / debit) are the preferred method of payment. We also accept checks or money orders.

Are there any items that I am not able to store? 

Liquids, explosives, flammable liquids, toxic materials and perishables. Please contact us if you have any questions regarding a specific item.

Does there have to be someone to let me through the security gates? 

No. At the time of signing you will be given your own security pass code that will allow you convenient access to your unit.

What forms of payment do you accept? 

For your convenience, we suggest signing up for automatic payments – using your valid credit card (VISA, Mastercard, or Discover) or debit card. There is no additional charge for this convenience and it avoids late fees. We also have a drop box for after hour payments.

Do I need to sign a long-term lease? 

No, we rent on a month-to-month basis unless the customer requests otherwise.

Do I need to bring my own lock? 

No. As part of the Move In process, a INSET lock is included with the small admin fee. This type of lock is nearly impossible to breach – and only you will have a key for it. In addition, you may double lock the door, if you prefer.

What are the office hours? 

Tuesday - Friday: 9AM – 5PM
Saturday: 9AM – 4PM
Monday, Sunday: CLOSED

We're conveniently located in Wichita, KS

8282 East Oak Knoll St.,
Wichita, KS 67207

Contact us

We're here to help you find the perfect unit.

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Office Hours
Monday: CLOSED
Tuesday: 9AM - 5PM
Wednesday: 9AM - 5PM
Thursday: 9AM - 5PM
Friday: 9AM - 5PM
Saturday: 9AM - 3PM
Sunday: CLOSED
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