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How to Store Documents Safely in a Storage Unit

A stack of business documents getting prepared for storage

When storing important documents at a storage facility, everyone has questions about storing documents safely in a storage unit. This guide will offer tips to keep your documents safe without worrying they'll be damaged or stolen.

Reasons to Use a Self-Storage Facility

There are many reasons to use a self-storage facility to store your personal and business documents:

  1. A self-storage facility provides a secure place to store your documents. Unlike a typical home, a self-storage facility has security cameras and gates that require a key or access code to enter. Only you (and the people you authorize) can access your documents.
  2. A self-storage facility is climate controlled. This means that the temperature and humidity levels in the facility are kept consistent, which prevents your documents from being damaged by extreme temperatures or moisture.
  3. It is accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This means you can access your documents whenever you need them, even if the office where you usually work is closed.
  4. You can pack and unpack your documents by yourself. This means you can store your documents the way you want and only access the documents you need at a given time.

There are a lot of benefits to storing your documents in a self-storage facility in Wichita, but the best reason is saving money. How?

  • Personal documents, crucial ones, shouldn't be stored in garages or attics without the risk of the paper deteriorating. They need to be stored within your home to control the relative humidity. The problem is this takes up valuable space within your home, which may lead you to believe you need to upgrade. Using a dedicated storage unit for your documents, you keep your records in good condition and free up valuable square footage in your home.
  • Businesses have a clear need for document storage and a need to maintain profitability. Self-storage allows them to keep their documents secure, choose from different storage units, and save on increased commercial office space costs.

How to Choose a Self-Storage Facility

When choosing a self-storage facility to store sensitive documents, you'll want to be sure to do your research. Not all facilities are created equal; some may be more secure than others.

Here are a few tips on how to choose the best self-storage facility for your needs:

  1. Ask around for recommendations. Friends, family, and colleagues may have personal experience with different storage facilities and can recommend one that is right for you.
  2. Check out the security features of each facility. This includes things like fencing, security cameras, and on-site staff.
  3. Read reviews online. This can give you a good idea of the quality of service offered by different facilities.
  4. Compare prices between facilities. Make sure you are getting the best deal possible for the amount of space you need. Note that some facilities do not post their prices on their websites, so you may need to call for a price quote.
  5. Make an appointment and see the facility firsthand. At this appointment, you'll get to know the staff and can ask some questions about how this facility is different from others in the area.

How to Prepare your Documents for Safe Storage

When it comes time to store your sensitive documents, you want to be sure to take the necessary precautions. Following a few simple tips ensures that your important papers are kept safe and secure.

  1. One of the most important things to remember is to choose a reliable self-storage facility. Ask about security measures, such as video surveillance and on-site staff.
  2. Make sure you have a plan for retrieving your documents if needed. Know who to contact at the self-storage facility in case of an emergency, and be sure to keep track of the access code or key that allows you into the unit.
  3. Finally, be sure to pack your documents carefully. You'll want to use packing materials that protect them from moisture and dust. And don't forget to label each box with a description of its contents.

How to Pack Your Sensitive Documents Before Storage

Self-storage facilities provide a convenient and affordable way to store your documents safely, but it is worth taking precautions while packing. Here are a few tips for storing documents at South Rock Storage.

  1. Make sure all documents are properly sealed in plastic bags or envelopes. This will help protect them from any possible damage. If possible, store your sensitive documents in an airtight container. This will help keep them from getting musty or moldy.
  2. Label each bag or envelope with a description of the contents. This will help you to keep track of your documents when picking them up.
  3. If possible, create an inventory list of all the documents you store. This will help you ensure that you have all of your sensitive documents in the storage unit. If possible, put a label on the outside of each bag or envelope with the date it was taken out of your office or home.
  4. Store the bags or envelopes in a secure location within your self-storage unit. This will help keep them in the same condition as when you initially took them out of your office or home.
  5. Keep the inventory list up to date, and review it regularly. This will help you to make sure that your documents are properly stored at all times.

Final Thoughts

Storing sensitive documents in a self-storage facility is a great way to keep them safe and secure. By following the tips mentioned in this article, you can be sure that your documents will be well protected. If you are looking for a self-storage facility in Wichita, KS, check out the options available at South Rock Storage.

We have been helping individuals and companies store their documents safely since 2006 and are here to help. Give us a call at 316-618-8282.

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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 smart thermostat on the wall helps regulate the temperature in your home

8 Clever Climate Controlled Storage Ideas for a Small Home

Climate-controlled storage is an excellent option if you need more space in your small home. Let’s dive in and see how it works.

At one point or another, most of us have looked around our homes and felt like we were running out of space. You might be wondering "do I need a climate controlled storage unit?" While that may be the route to go, we want to talk about long term ways to make the most of the climate control in the home you already ownThese tips will help you make the most of your small home and keep your belongings safe and protected from the elements.How to Maximize Your Space With Climate-Controlled Storage Ideas1. Install a programmable thermostat to regulate the temperature in your storage space.If your home is not properly temperature regulated, it could be damaging your stored belongings. Too much heat (and excessive humidity) can cause things like furniture, electronics, and musical instruments to warp and discolor. Excessive humidity if left unchecked can lead to mold and mildew growth. And, if the temperature gets too cold, metal can become brittle and glass can crack.A programmable thermostat is an easy way to maintain a comfortable temperature in your storage space, while also conserving energy. Simply set the thermostat to turn on when you need it and off when you don't, and you'll never have to worry about excess heat or cold damaging your belongings again. Climate-controlled units at South Rock Storage are an excellent option if this sounds like something best handled by someone else.2. Store your clothing in airtight containers to keep them fresh and free of wrinkles. Airtight storage containers will keep your clothing looking its best and prevent it from becoming musty or wrinkled. Plus, airtight storage containers are great for preventing bugs and moths from getting to your clothing.Make sure to find durable clear plastic with a snap-tight lid. You can stack multiple containers on top of each other, making them perfect for small spaces. And when you're ready to take your clothes out of storage, the clear plastic construction makes it easy to see what's inside each container.3. Store out-of-season clothing in vacuum-sealed bags.Seasonal clothing can take up a lot of space, especially if you live in an area with drastic temperature changes. If you want to free up some space, consider storing your out-of-season clothing in vacuum-sealed bags.This will not only save space, but it will also keep your clothing from taking up valuable closet space. Vacuum-sealed bags are airtight, so they will protect your clothing from dust, moisture, and insects. Plus, they are easy to store and transport.4. Place a dehumidifier in your storage area to keep your belongings from becoming damaged.Keeping your storage area dry is important to protect your belongings from moisture damage. A dehumidifier can help to remove excess moisture from the air, keeping your storage area dry and preventing your belongings from becoming damaged.Dehumidifiers come in a variety of sizes, so you can choose one that is appropriate for the size of your storage area. Be sure to empty the water reservoir regularly, as the dehumidifier will not be able to function properly if it becomes full. Alternatively, rent an indoor climate-controlled storage unit at South Rock Storage where temperatures remain consistent all year round without worrying about this step anymore!5. Buy a beverage fridge that can be used as a storage unit.If you are an avid wine collector, then you know how important it is to store your wine in a cool, dark place. But what if you could do more than just store your wine? What if you could also display it in a beautiful, stylish way? That's where a beverage fridge comes in.A beverage fridge is a great addition to any home, and it can be used for much more than just storing wine. With its sleek design and adjustable shelves, a beverage fridge can also be used as a storage unit for other items, such as glassware, liquor, and even cigars. So if you're looking for a versatile piece of furniture that will help you organize your home and display your wine collection in style, then a beverage fridge is the perfect option for you.7. Insulate your attic.Everyone knows they need to insulate their attic but not everyone knows the true cost of not doing it properly. Not only does this protect your belongings from extreme temperatures, but it also helps to keep your home more energy-efficient. The average home loses about 20-30% of its heat through the roof, and uninsulated attics are a major contributor to this heat loss. By insulating your attic, you can help to keep your home more comfortable and reduce your energy costs by about 15%.Other things that happen if the attic is not insulated are as follows:The pipes might freeze during the winterIn the summer, the heat will build up and could potentially cause damage to your belongings.By keeping the heat in during the winter and the cool air in during the summer, you can save money on your energy bills. In addition, insulation can help to reduce noise pollution from outside sources.8. Create an insulated wall. Homeowners who are interested in saving energy and reducing their monthly utility bills should make sure that their homes are well insulated. Insulating walls, attics, and crawlspaces can help to keep heat in during the winter and cool air in during the summer, resulting in significant energy savings.In addition, insulating your home can help to reduce noise pollution and make your home more comfortable overall. There are a variety of insulation materials available on the market, so it's important to consult with a professional to determine which type of insulation is best for your needs. By taking the time to insulate your home properly, you can enjoy substantial savings on your energy bills for years to come. Moreover, it will also help to protect your belongings from damage caused by extreme temperatures.What Are Climate-Controlled Self-Storage Units?Climate-controlled self-storage units are temperature and humidity-controlled. This means that the units maintain a constant temperature and humidity level that protect your belongings from the damaging effects of extreme weather conditions.Some examples of items you can store in climate-controlled self-storage units are:FurnitureElectronicsBooksDocumentsClothingWineTemperature and humidity can damage your belongings, so it's important to store them in a controlled environment. By renting a climate-controlled self-storage unit, you can ensure that your belongings are protected against the elements.What Are the Benefits of Using Climate-Controlled Self-Storage Units?Climate-controlled self-storage units in Wichita, KS offer a number of benefits as follows:These units can protect your belongings from damage caused by extreme weather conditions, such as heat, cold, humidity, and moisture.They can help to prevent the growth of mold and mildew, which can damage your belongings. They can help to keep your belongings organized and easy to find.Climate-controlled self storage units also come in different sizes to accommodate your storage needs. Some of the most popular sizes and what they can fit are:5'x10'x8' - This size can fit the contents of a small closet, such as clothing, linens, and towels.10'x10'x8' - This size can fit the contents of a one-bedroom apartment, such as furniture, appliances, and boxes.Final ThoughtsWhen looking for self-storage, don't forget about the importance of climate control feature. The temperatures in Wichita, Kansas can vary a great deal. The city experiences very hot summers as high as 114 degrees Fahrenheit and very cold winters with temperatures as low as 16 degrees Fahrenheit. These extreme temperature changes can damage your belongings, so it's important to store them in a climate-controlled self-storage unit. By doing so, you can ensure that your belongings are protected against the elements and will stay in good condition. Contact South Rock Storage if you're interested in learning more about climate-controlled self-storage units in Wichita, Kansas. Our team would be happy to answer any questions that you have.
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If you are looking for an affordable storage facility with a clean atmosphere, top-notch security, and a friendly staff you've come to the right place.
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

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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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