Your Temporary Storage

Temporary storage in Las Vegas is relatively inexpensive compared to storage costs in many other areas of the country. Self- and warehouse-storage space is available in all sections of the city. Check on security arrangements at specific storage units, liability for loss or damage and availability of units.

Selecting a self-storage space

According to information from the Self Storage Association, it’s important to carefully read the contract you are asked to sign. If there are provisions that you don’t understand, ask the manager to explain them. If you still don’t understand or don’t feel comfortable with the explanation, don’t sign the rental agreement, which is a legal contract. Make sure there are no blank spaces and that any verbal promises made by the manager or staff are in the written rental agreement.  Visit the self-storage facility and ask to see a space of the size you think you may need. If climate controlled space is available, compare it to the non-climate controlled space. Check for cleanliness, convenience and security. Ask about the office’s operating hours. Keep a copy of the written rental agreement. Obtain and read a copy of the rules and regulations of the facility, if any. Insurance is the responsibility of the customer and storage facilities are generally not responsible for the contents of your unit.

Important Guidelines 

Use the best lock possible to protect your valuables. Purchase insurance on your property, either through the facility or with your own agent. Remember that the storage operator does not insure your goods. Prepare to give at least 10 days written notice before you plan to move out of your unit. This is usually required by the contract you sign. Don’t store prohibited items such as tires, food, or flammable items. Check the storage facility’s rules or your contract for a complete list. Your property could be sold at a public auction if you stop paying rent on your unit.

General Storage Information

Do not store hazardous or toxic materials OR flammable liquids or gases OR foods. Do not store any combustibles, propane tanks, old paint, cleaning fluids, gasoline or other things that might create or intensify a fire! Only the tenant is legally entitled to enter the storage space unless other arrangements have been made with the self-storage facility. For example, if you want friends and members of your family to use your storage space, you must list them under access rights on the rental agreement. Visit your self-storage space on occasion to check the condition of your possessions. When moving out of storage, give at least 10 days written notice. Take everything and don’t leave any trash. Leave the unit in broom-clean condition. Remove your lock. Be certain that everything stored is dry, as any moisture may cause mildew.

Self-Storage Packing Tips

Fill boxes to capacity. Partially full or bulging boxes may collapse or tip over while stored. Label your cartons and goods. This will make accessing items much easier. Put pallets or a grid of 2’ x 3’s on the unit floor to give better air circulation under goods; leave a walkway/aisle to the rear of the unit. Don’t over pack the unit! Put heavy items on the bottom. Glass items should be individually wrapped; use blank wrapping paper for best results; “nest” cups and bowls, stand plates and platters; fill air pockets with wrapping paper or foam peanuts. Don’t put breakables under other boxes. Wrap all glass well; store on edge, not flat. Refrigerators and freezers must be defrosted and dry while washing machines completely drained. Remove appliance doors and store separately; desiccants (drying agents) should be used and containers checked and emptied regularly. Take apart lawn mowers and snow blower, making sure all the fuel is completely drained. Wipe a few drops of oil on bicycles and tools to prevent rusting, and then store these items away from furniture to avoid oil staining.

Determining the right storage unit for your needs 

Unit Size: 5’ x 5’ Equivalent: 25 sq. ft. hall closet, small bedroom or office. What Will Fit*: Boxes, clothing, small furniture, toys, business records or about 50 file boxes. Unit Size: 5’ x 10’ Equivalent: 50 sq. ft. Walk-in closet. What Will Fit*: Mattress set, sofa, chest of drawers, dining room set or about 100 file boxes. Unit Size: 7 ½’ x 10’ Room Equivalent: 75 sq. ft. Large walk-in closet. What Will Fit*: The furnishings of a one-bedroom apartment: Desk, patio furniture, washer/dryer stacked, boxes, and miscellaneous items or about 150 file boxes. Unit Size: 10’ x 10’ Equivalent: 100 sq. ft. Average size bedroom. What Will Fit*: The furnishings of a one-bedroom apartment with refrigerator, washer/dryer, and patio furniture or about 200 file boxes. Unit Size: 10’ x 15’ Equivalent: 150 sq. ft. Large bedroom. What Will Fit*: The furnishings of a two-bedroom apartment or small house with refrigerator, washer/dryer, yard furniture, boxes, and miscellaneous items or about 300 file boxes. Unit Size: 10’ x 20’ Equivalent: 200 sq. ft. One-car garage. What Will Fit*: The furnishings of a three or four-bedroom house with major appliances, garage extras, boxes, and miscellaneous items or business files and inventory. Unit Size: 10’ x 30’ Equivalent: 300 sq. ft. Extra large garage. What Will Fit*: The furnishings of a four or five-bedroom house with major appliances, boxes, and miscellaneous items or business files and inventory.

^{*Actual contents will vary based on the size of your belongings}