Did you know?

You can use document storage facilities to store your important documents and protect them against losses, like theft, floods, and fires. While a lot of people choose to keep their documents in their homes, that is not always the safest place. A safe deposit box at a bank can work for some documents, but if you have more than just a few small things, you aren't going to have room. A better choice is a document storage unit, where you can have the space you need to store all the documents you might need at a later date.
You can have peace of mind, too, knowing that your documents are all protected from harm. When you need your documents, you simply go to the storage facility and access your unit. You can organize it however you want, so you can find everything quickly and easily. Boxes, totes, trunks, bags, and other options all work for storage, depending on the kinds of documents you have and how sensitive they are to things like temperature and humidity.
1 Document Storage

Some documents require more care than others when they are stored, but there are plenty of options for document storage units near you that will work for your needs. When you locate a document storage facility, be sure to ask questions about the unit so you know you are getting what you really want. Then you will be happy with your document storage for a long time, and you know your documents are secure in their new location. That security is a big part of the popularity of document storage, and an important reason to put your documents into the right facility.
Document storage is an essential part of the operation of any successful business. While the shift to digital storage has reduced the amount of paper storage, it has not completely eliminated the need for storing hard copies of important documents. A self-storage facility that provides document storage is the ideal alternative to keeping important documents around the office, especially if you are running out of office space.
Learn More2 Tips to Help Protect your Documents once in Storage

Once you’ve made the decision to seek document storage, here are a few tips to help keep the items you store in pristine condition:
Use climate controlled storage – This is the best way to ensure that documents do not suffer from mold or mildew. A climate controlled storage unit will keep one constant temperature, regardless of external conditions. Paper is extremely vulnerable to extreme temperatures and to changes in humidity. If not stored properly, your important documents could yellow, disintegrate, or be covered in mold and mildew.
Properly catalog files before storing – Organization is key when storing documents. If you want to be able to locate your documents easily after removing them from storage, then arranging them beforehand is essential. Place all valuable boxes and important documents at the front of the storage unit for easy access. Be sure that all boxes are labeled properly and organized for easy retrieval.
3 What Documents Need to be Stored?

Any important document that is vital to your business or to your family should be stored properly. This includes medical records, legal documents, and insurance contracts, as well as tax records and plans. In the event of a disaster, such as an office fire or flood, you can rest assured knowing that your company's most valuable documents are protected from harm.
In general, it is wise to keep the following records:
• Employee W2 forms, retirement plans, and wills should be kept permanently.
• Worker's compensation benefits and payroll records should be kept for 10 years.
• Medical records, performance records, personnel files, and payroll checks should be kept for at least 7 years.

4 Individuals and Families Need Document Storage too

Ever have the feeling that you are drowning in papers? It can be difficult to store all the bills, paycheck stubs, and tax records your family needs in your apartment or home. As a result, many individuals and families mistakenly throw away important documents, or they misplace them and can't find what they need, when they need it. With document storage, you can store valuable receipts, tax records, and employment records without taking up space in your spare room, basement, or attic. Whether you live in a tiny apartment or a big house, you can keep your important papers and documents all in one convenient place with a document storage unit.
Families can also benefit from document storage for storing old photo albums, media files, and other important documents. A lot of families, big or small, have photos that were taken years ago and that are not on digital media. Those photos should be preserved for future generations, and that can be done with the right storage options. Family bibles, along with any and all types of documents that might be needed by a family or that will be passed down through that family at a later date, need to be stored safely. With a document storage unit, you will be able to put everything in one place and know that you don't have to worry about any of it getting stolen or lost.
Learn More5 Questions to Consider when Choosing a Document Storage Unit

When you are choosing a document storage unit, there are a few questions you should ask yourself—and the unit manager.
• Is the facility open 24/7 for you to access your documents?
• Is the facility temperature controlled?
• Do they use a de-humidifier?
• How often do they spray for bugs, pests, and rodents?

Document Storage Units in Popular U.S. Cities
