How to Determine a Storage Unit Facility Has Great Security

If you are interested in finding a self storage unit that protects your belongings, you’re seeking a company that has great security measures. The more capable your storage company is at securing your belongings, the more you can trust them. Here are some tips to help you find a storage facility that puts security first:

#1: Visit three different facilities.
When finding a place to store your valuables and personal belongings, speak to at least three different companies. Not only should you compare rates, unit sizes, and additional features, you’ll be able to see firsthand what kind of security they provide.

#2: Ask about video surveillance.
Ask about the technology and software the facility uses. Perhaps you’re interested in high-quality surveillance camera footage. Inquire where the cameras are located, and how long they keep the footage on file in case you should need it for an insurance claim.

#3: Research if they’ve had any break-ins.
Take the address of each storage location and research neighborhood crime statistics. If the facility you’re considering has many recent thefts or break-ins, you may wish to look elsewhere. Ask the facility what additional security measures they provide (e.g. security codes, who has access to buildings and units, etc.)

By taking these factors into account, you can hopefully find a self storage facility that is safe and that has the best security measures in place. Ask for customer references or other background information about their reputation.

Centron Storage takes security seriously. We’ll not only protect your valuables, we’ll give you your first four weeks of self storage on the house. Call us today at (416) 739-0000.

Does Size Matter? How to Choose the Right Storage Space

Does your house seem crowded? Are you selling a home and need to reduce the clutter? Do you simply want a little more breathing room? Renting a storage unit is a great and affordable option. With so many different sizes and options available, does size really matter? It certainly does.

Consider the Size and Number of Storage Items
Write down everything you plan to put inside your storage unit. Next, take measurements of every item, capturing the height, width, and depth. It is also a smart idea to think of any items that can be stacked safely. After adding up all three dimensions for everything, you can make an estimate for what size of storage unit you will need to fit your belongings. Consider selecting a size up, after determining the size you feel you need. (Regardless of how much you plan for, there might be additional items you forgot.)

Use Storage Space Dimensions
That said, try not to underestimate or overestimate the size of a storage unit necessary. With rooms starting at 5′ x 5′ and going all the way up to 10′ x 20′, you have plenty of options. Take the time to plan and measure and get the best value for your rental fee.

Contact Centron Storage for additional advice about getting the right storage unit in a North York. We proudly serve the North York area.

North York (416) 739-0000.

How to Find the Best Storage Company for You

Storage companies are useful whether you are planning to move, downsize, or simply need a safe location to keep your valuables and belongings. Knowing what to look for when choosing a reliable storage company near you improves the likelihood you’ll be satisfied with the service and can afford it.

Location

Comparing various local storage locations is recommended to anyone seeking storage solutions. Depending on your current address and whether or not you are moving, the geographic location is a factor in your decision. One nearby storage unit may be more convenient than another, saving you time when accessing your unit(s) or retrieving items.

Price and Type Of Unit

Because storage units vary and some places have more availability than others, try to compare the sizes and pricing for units offered. Do you wish to store your belongings in a site that offers security, or do you need a temperature-controlled room? Be sure to inquire about the amenities offered by each storage company you are considering.  Ask what security measures they have in place.

Once you are aware of each storage facility’s environment, inquire about pricing. Measure the approximate total size of the things you wish to store, so you have an idea how much space you need. A unit may range from a size that can hold a room of furniture to one that holds the contents of an entire three bedroom house.

Conducting a bit of research prior to selecting a storage company allows you to determine the right place for your needs and budget. Taking the time to compare storage companies will help you get the most out of the service you need — for everything from furniture to memorabilia.

Looking for the best deals for storage? Call Centron Storage at (416) 739-0000 today to learn more about storage units, pricing, and the best solutions for your storage needs.

Benefit Your Business with Self Storage

Both individuals and businesses find ourselves overwhelmed with all the “stuff” we accumulate. However, businesses have a unique challenge. Data and documents can’t be simply thrown away or recycled. Self storage is a great option for saving and handling records and files.

Follow Government Regulations

Businesses are required to retain documents for several years, creating space problems and inconvenience. It is often inefficient to keep all documents on site, creating clutter in the office space. Storing files off site in a self-storage unit can allow you to comply with regulations while maintaining the look of your space and keeping employees happy in an uncluttered work environment.

Protect Documents

Despite online and computer backups, many companies will keep physical copies of documents due to security concerns with “the cloud.” However, they want to avoid keeping paperwork in their office. In this instance, fire or flood can wipe out documents and data. By keeping important information in a self storage center, you can prevent that loss of data and protect it in a secured environment.

Downsizing Office Space

For most companies, the cost of rent is right up there with payroll and cost of goods. When you store excess records offsite, you can choose a smaller office or share office space and lower costs/rent.

Using self storage can prevent a lot of business headaches.  Call Centron Self Storage in the North York area; we’re a proven leader in the industry: (416) 739-0000.

Spring Decluttering! (Get Your Home in Order)

Do you feel overwhelmed thinking about spring cleaning? Clutter can cause stress. Here are some tips to help you start, keep motivated, and handle the items you want to keep and those you wish to recycle.

Before you begin:

• Draw out a floor plan of your home and all its rooms
• Designate places for items to keep (pantry, closet, dressers, etc.)
• Mark the most cluttered rooms on the plan

If you decide where things should go, it is easier to get organized. If you collect certain items and need access to them (books, magazines, records, craft items), make sure they’re contained and identifiable.

Next steps:

• Obtain some large boxes
• Mark boxes: Keep, Donate, Storage 1, Storage 2, and Relocate
• Mark each side of the box with a description of its contents
• Place a roll or box of garbage bags on each floor/major area of your home — keep boxes in a central location
• Make a list of item categories (garbage, books, seasonal items, shoes, clothing, CDs, videos, games)

Think of it as a job:

• Review the floor plan and designate where items should go
• Work fifteen minutes per room, per category
• After an hour, take a break and then pick up where you left off
• Be “fast and furious:” look, grab and go
• Stack items separately ( keep – donate – store)
• Move out boxes for charity and storage out on a regular basis

If you handle clutter by spending fifteen minutes in a room and then walk away for a break, you’ll avoid feeling stressed out. Don’t get overwhelmed by the big picture. Centron Self Storage has great storage solutions to fit your needs. Contact our North York: (416) 739-0000. Your belongings are safe, secure, and there when you need them. Call today to reserve your space; 24/7.

Motorcycle Storage: Keeping Your Ride Safe from Harsh Canadian Weather

When you want to keep your motorcycle durable and in great condition, it needs proper storage. This is particularly important when you live in a cold, harsh climate, like what we have in Canada. If you require motorcycle storage in North York, call us today. Here’s what you do before storing your motorcycle:

#1: Drain the fluid whenever possible.

It is critical to drain fluid before storing your motorcycle for long periods. If fluid freezes it can create serious issues for a vehicle’s engine or crack the hoses. A cracked hose results in spilled fluid and may cause serious issues with other parts.

#2: Take the motorcycle for a tuneup.

Have a professional check for problems that may become exacerbated if your motorcycle is left in storage during the cold months. This way, you know any necessary repairs have been completed and you can ride out of the storage area in confidence when the weather becomes warmer.

#3: Choose a high-quality storage facility.

When you want to protect the investment you’ve made into your motorcycle, it’s safest to choose a facility with cameras and security. Don’t leave the storage to amateurs.

Don’t leave your motorcycle exposed to the elements of a Canadian winter. Centron Self Storage provides high quality motorcycle storage in North York at a great price. Give us a call today at (416) 739-0000 to learn more.

Self Storage Units for Furniture While Moving

If you’re moving to a new place and need to put some items in storage, here are a few tips before you do so.

Cleaning

First, give everything a good clean. This is especially true for electronic items. You want to keep dirt and dust off important items while they’re stored. Grime or tiny particles can eventually cause damage.

Take Things Apart

Disassembling items like large pieces of furniture can save space. Beds and chairs can often be taken apart. So can bicycles and large toys. Not only does this save room in your storage unit, it will make it a lot easier to transport.

Measure

Decide how much space you’ll need to store your items. Some people just take a guess. But if you’re not that talented at guessing dimensions, do a little “dress rehearsal” by putting most of the stuff in one area and measuring it.

Leave Space

When you put your things into storage, allow some space between them. Cramming is never a good strategy. Not only does this make it difficult to remove items later, your belongings may be damaged.

Security

Make sure to pack everything properly to prevent it from breaking during the move, or inviting dust, mould, or mildew. Then, choose a storage facility that has security so your possessions are protected.

If you are moving in North York, check out Centron Self Storage to keep your things safe and sound. Give us a call at (416) 739-0000 and let one of our friendly staff members provide the best options for storage.

How to Prepare Mirrors and Paintings for Storage

If you are planning on storing valuable mirrors and paintings you will want to properly wrap, pack and store your items before putting them into a North York storage facility. Here are some of the specific packing materials you’ll need:

• Mirror cartons
• Large paper pads
• Blank newsprint
• Glassine (for oil paintings)
• Tape

You can buy these essentials from office supply stores. Professional storage facilities also sell materials to help you store your treasured possessions.

Box Sizes

There are three different-sized boxes especially made for packing mirrors, paintings and artwork:

• Large mirror carton
• Regular mirror carton
• Door mirror carton

Each mirror carton is shaped differently to suit the type of mirror or painting you need to pack.

How to Box

1. Tape and construct the carton you’ve chosen.
2. Wrap the mirror/painting in a single or double large paper pad, depending on how fragile or valuable the piece is. (If you are packing is an oil painting, wrap it in glassine first, then surround it in a large paper pad. This step protects the oil paint from mould and sticking to the paper pad itself.)
3. Use blank newsprint to create a cushion on the bottom the mirror carton.
4. Place the piece in the box.
5. Fill in the sides and the remaining free space with more blank newsprint for cushioning.
6. Seal the box with tape and label.

If you are not able to purchase the proper cushioning material, wrap mirrors and paintings in blankets, comforters or towels. Always try covering the glass with whatever cardboard is accessible to you. This protects the the piece’s front.

When it comes to storing glass mirrors and valuable paintings, the more protection the better. Centron Self Storage has great, temperature-controlled facilities to store and protect all your belongings. Contact us at (416) 739-0000 for painting storage in North York or reserve your storage locker online.

Winter Preparation for Your Self Storage Facility

When it comes to items in your self-storage facility, prepping for the winter is a great idea to keep belongings safe and clean. Here are some tips to help you prepare your stored property for the colder, frigid months:

Prepare the Entryway
If you plan to access your unit during inclement weather (or anytime during the winter), place a doormat and tray for snow boots in the doorway of your storage area. Remove wet items before entering your storage unit. Have towels or paper towels nearby to wipe up rain, snow, or ice that gets on the floor. This protects both your cardboard boxes and prevents accidents.

Stock Plenty of Packing Blankets
If you think you might be moving items out of storage during colder months, wrapping (properly packaged) glass items in moving blankets will prevent cracking or breakage in extreme cold. These items are often available for rental from moving companies or storage facilities.

Take a Flashlight
You never know when you might enter your storage facility in late afternoon, only to exit after the sun has gone down. Since the days are shorter in winter, protect yourself from tripping and slipping outside by taking along a pocket flashlight. Professional facilities are well-lit, but it’s always It’s always best to protect yourself from black ice that is difficult to spot when walking to your vehicle.

If you are looking to rent a self storage unit this winter, reserve online at Centron Self Storage or call our storage experts in North York at (416) 739-0000.