Keep Life Rolling with These Storage Tips

From packing smart to choosing the right unit size, Fairgrounds Self Storage has gathered the tips and resources you need to make your move stress-free. Explore our guides below.

Indoor vs outdoor storage comparison

Choose Between Indoor and Outdoor Storage

Indoor storage offers added protection for furniture, electronics, and documents, while outdoor storage provides convenient drive-up access for vehicles, tools, and larger items.

Neatly stacked labeled boxes in a storage unit

Label Every Box Clearly

Write the contents of each box on at least two sides, not only on the top. This makes it much easier to find what you need without moving or opening several boxes.

Storage container filled with sofas, mattresses, toolboxes, and stacked boxes

Leave a Clear Access Path

Create a small walkway from the entrance to the back of the unit. Place frequently used items near the front so you can reach them quickly without rearranging everything.

Person wrapping furniture in moving blankets inside a storage unit

Protect Furniture Properly

Clean and dry furniture before storing it, then cover it with breathable fabric or protective covers. Disassemble large pieces when possible to save space and reduce the risk of scratches or damage.

Person wrapping furniture in moving blankets inside a storage unit

Keep Everything Clean and Dry

Make sure all items are completely dry before placing them in storage. This helps prevent moisture, unpleasant odors, mildew, and long-term damage to clothing, furniture, and boxes.

Person wrapping furniture in moving blankets inside a storage unit

Make Use of Vertical Space

Add shelving or stack boxes carefully to maximize the available height. Keep heavy boxes at the bottom and lighter, more delicate items on top for better stability and safety.

Common Storage Questions, Answered

These are the questions customers ask most before renting a unit. Find clear, straightforward answers below and reach out anytime if you need more help.

  • What can I store in a self storage unit?

    You can store almost anything that fits — furniture, clothing, appliances, seasonal decorations, tools, sports equipment, business inventory, and more. Items you cannot store include hazardous materials, flammable liquids, perishable food, live animals, and illegal goods. When in doubt, call us and we'll let you know if your items are a good fit.

  • How do I choose the right unit size?

    Start by listing everything you plan to store, then think in terms of rooms. A 5x5 unit fits a closet's worth of items; a 5x10 handles a studio apartment; a 10x10 fits a one-bedroom apartment; a 10x20 can hold a full three-bedroom house. Our unit size guide makes this even easier — use it before you book.

  • How should I pack my unit to maximize space?

    Stack boxes floor to ceiling, heaviest on the bottom. Place items you'll need to access frequently near the door. Use uniform box sizes to stack cleanly, and label every box on the side — not the top — so you can read them once they're stacked. Leave a center aisle for easy access.

  • What is the difference between indoor and outdoor storage?

    Indoor storage units are accessed from inside a climate-protected building, keeping your belongings shielded from rain, wind, pests, and temperature swings. Outdoor units are accessed directly from a parking lot and are better suited for vehicles or items that don't require protection. Fairgrounds Self Storage offers indoor units for maximum protection.

  • Why does one-level storage make moving easier?

    One-level storage means no stairs, no elevators, and no waiting. You drive up, load or unload, and go — making move-in day significantly faster and easier, especially for heavy furniture and large appliances. It also reduces the risk of injury during the move.

  • How do I prepare items for long-term storage?

    Clean everything before storing it — moisture and grime cause mold and deterioration over time. Disassemble furniture where possible to save space. Wrap fragile items in packing paper or bubble wrap. Use plastic bins instead of cardboard for items that need moisture protection, and avoid storing in sealed plastic bags, which can trap condensation.

  • Is my stored property insured?

    Most renters' or homeowners' insurance policies extend coverage to stored property — check with your provider before move-in. We recommend all tenants carry some form of coverage on their stored belongings for peace of mind.

  • How do I reserve a storage unit?

    Reserving a unit is simple. Browse available units on our Available Units page, choose the size that fits your needs, and complete the online reservation form. You can also call us directly and we'll walk you through the process. Reservations can often be completed in under five minutes.

  • What size unit do I need for a one-bedroom apartment?

    A 5x10 or 10x10 unit typically handles a one-bedroom apartment comfortably, depending on how much furniture and how many boxes you have. If you're storing a bed frame, dresser, couch, and 15-20 boxes, a 10x10 gives you room to access your items without unpacking everything to reach one box.

  • Can businesses use Fairgrounds Self Storage?

    Absolutely. Small businesses, contractors, and office-based companies use our units for inventory overflow, equipment storage, document archiving, and seasonal stock rotation. Business tenants appreciate the ground-level access, wide hallways, and flexible rental terms. Contact us to discuss what your business needs.

Ready to Roll? Find Your Perfect Unit Today.

You've done your research — now it's time to take the next step. Browse our available units, pick the size that's right for you, and reserve online in minutes. Questions? Our team is happy to help.