Blog | Scamper Storage & Business Park

How to Create an Inventory for Your Storage Unit: Stay Organized, Save Time, and Protect Your Belongings

Whether you're storing seasonal decorations, furniture, family keepsakes, business supplies, or household belongings, a storage unit is a great way to free up space while keeping your items accessible. But as time passes and more boxes are added, remembering exactly what's in your storage unit—and where everything is located—can become a challenge. Have you ever spent an hour searching through boxes for something you were sure you put in storage? Or purchased an item only to discover you already had one tucked away? That's where a storage unit inventory comes in handy! Creating an inventory is one of the simplest ways to keep your belongings organized, save time, and maintain important records for insurance purposes. At Scamper Storage, we believe a little planning can make your storage experience much easier. What Is a Storage Unit Inventory? A storage unit inventory is a detailed list of the belongings you have placed in storage. It can be as simple as a handwritten checklist or as detailed as a digital spreadsheet complete with photographs, descriptions, estimated values, and box locations. The goal is simple: Know what you have, where it is, and how to find it when you need it. 5 Easy Steps to Create Your Storage Unit Inventory Step 1: Number and Label Your Boxes Before placing items into storage, assign each box or container a unique number.For example: Box 001 – Christmas Decorations Box 002 – Kitchen Supplies Box 003 – Family Photographs Box 004 – Winter Clothing Box 005 – Office Documents Write the number on multiple sides of each box so it's visible regardless of how the boxes are stacked. Scamper Tip: Use waterproof labels or permanent markers to help prevent labels from fading or becoming unreadable over time. Step 2: Create a Detailed Inventory List Next, write down the contents of each box. While general descriptions are helpful, adding a little extra detail can make locating specific items much easier. Instead of writing "Kitchen Stuff," try: Box 002 – Kitchen Supplies 12-piece dinnerware set Stainless steel mixing bowls Holiday serving platter Coffee mugs Small kitchen ...

A. Oatman
November 2nd, 2026

🍂📦 JOIN OUR FALL DECLUTTERING CHALLENGE! 📦🍂

October 26 – November 20 Clear the clutter. Make room for the holidays. Finish the year feeling organized! The holidays will be here before we know it! 🎄🦃 Instead of trying to tackle the entire house at once, join Scamper Storage & Business Park for our Fall Decluttering Challenge. From October 26 through November 20, tackle one small area each day. Keep it, donate it, toss it, or store it—just get it where it belongs! 📅 26 Days to a Less-Cluttered Home WEEK 1 • OCT. 26–NOV. 1 | START SMALL 🧹 Oct. 26: Junk drawer — You know the one! Oct. 27: Kitchen counters — Clear anything you don't use regularly. Oct. 28: Pantry — Toss expired food and donate unopened extras. Oct. 29: Refrigerator & freezer — Check dates and wipe down shelves. Oct. 30: Bathroom cabinets — Clear old or unused products. Oct. 31: Halloween décor — As decorations come down, sort before packing. 🎃 Nov. 1: Entryway — Shoes, bags, jackets and everything collecting by the door. WEEK 2 • NOV. 2–8 | CONQUER THE CLOSETS 👚 Nov. 2: Coat closet — Donate coats and jackets no longer worn. Nov. 3: Your closet — Pick at least 10 things to donate or remove. Nov. 4: Shoes — Keep the pairs you actually wear. Nov. 5: Kids' closets — Remove outgrown clothing. Nov. 6: Linen closet — Sort towels, sheets and blankets. Nov. 7: Accessories — Tackle purses, hats, belts and scarves. Nov. 8: Bedroom surfaces — Clear nightstands and dressers. WEEK 3 • NOV. 9–15 | THE BIG STUFF 📦 Nov. 9: Garage — Choose one shelf, cabinet or corner. Nov. 10: Tools & lawn equipment — Put away what you won't need this season. Nov. 11: Sports & outdoor gear — Sort summer items from fall/winter gear. Nov. 12: Toys & games — Great time to make room before Christmas! Nov. 13: Books, magazines & paperwork — Recycle, file or donate. Nov. 14: Home décor — Keep your ...

Scamper
October 23rd, 2026

🚐 Heading Out in Your RV? Check Before You Go!

No matter the season, a little preparation can help make your next RV adventure safer and smoother. Before hitting the road, take a few minutes to check the essentials: 🛞 Inspect tires, wheels & tire pressure 🔋 Check batteries, lights & electrical connections 💧 Inspect water lines, tanks & plumbing for leaks 🔥 Check propane levels & appliances 🚨 Test smoke, CO & propane detectors 🔒 Secure awnings, slides, doors & compartments 🚐 Check your hitch, safety chains & travel connections 🌦️ Prepare for seasonal temperatures and weather One last tip: Do a complete 360° walk-around before pulling away. It’s an easy way to catch an open compartment, forgotten stabilizer, low tire, or other small problem before it becomes a big one.If your RV has been sitting in storage, give yourself extra time to inspect and prepare it before your next adventure. Check it now. Enjoy the journey later! 🏕️ ...

Scamper
October 13th, 2026

Storage Bins vs. Cardboard Boxes: Which Is Better for Your Storage Unit?

When you're getting ready to rent a storage unit, one of the first questions you may have is: What should I pack everything in?Cardboard boxes are inexpensive, easy to find, and great for moving. But if your belongings will be sitting in storage for more than a short period of time, sturdy plastic storage bins can have some major advantages.From easier stacking to better protection from moisture, here are a few reasons you may want to choose plastic storage bins instead of cardboard boxes. 1. Better Protection From Moisture One of the biggest disadvantages of cardboard is that it absorbs moisture. Humidity, condensation, or an accidental spill can cause cardboard boxes to become soft, warped, or damaged.Plastic storage bins provide a more moisture-resistant barrier. While they aren't necessarily waterproof, sturdy bins with secure-fitting lids can provide better protection against everyday moisture and humidity.Storage Tip: Make sure everything you place inside a plastic bin is completely dry. Sealing damp items inside can trap moisture and encourage mold or mildew. 2. An Extra Barrier Against Pests Cardboard can be attractive to certain pests, and boxes may develop openings or become damaged over time.Plastic bins with tight-fitting lids create an additional barrier between your belongings and unwanted visitors. They're especially helpful when storing items such as clothing, linens, seasonal decorations, books, and household goods.Remember, though, that storage bins aren't a substitute for good packing habits. Avoid storing food or other items that could attract pests, and always follow your storage facility's rules regarding prohibited items. 3. Stronger and More Durable We've all seen what happens to a cardboard box when too many other boxes are stacked on top of it—squish!Plastic storage bins generally hold their shape better, making them a good option when you need to stack containers inside your storage unit.They're also reusable. When you're finished storing your belongings, you can use the bins again for your next move, seasonal organization, garage storage, or another trip to the storage unit. 4. Easier to Stack and Organize Making the most of ...

Scamper
September 29th, 2026

10 Things People Forget to Do Before Renting a Storage Unit

Renting a storage unit seems pretty straightforward: pick a size, sign the paperwork, and start moving your belongings in. But there are a few important details that are easy to overlook.Whether you're moving, decluttering, renovating, or simply running out of space, a little planning can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and headaches. Before you rent, here are 10 things people often forget to do before getting a storage unit. 1. Measure What You Need to Store It's easy to overestimate or underestimate how much space you need. Before choosing a unit, make a list of your larger belongings and estimate how many boxes or totes you'll have. This can help you avoid paying for unused space—or discovering that your unit is too small on moving day. 2. Ask About Additional Fees The advertised monthly rental price may not be the only expense. Ask about administrative fees, locks, deposits, insurance requirements, taxes, and other potential charges before signing your agreement. 3. Find Out About Rate Increases If you're taking advantage of a move-in special or promotional rate, ask how long it lasts. It's also a good idea to find out how rental rate changes are handled so you know what to expect during a longer stay. 4. Check the Access Hours Don't confuse office hours with gate-access hours! If you work late, travel frequently, or think you'll need your belongings on weekends, make sure the facility's access schedule works for you. 5. Consider Climate-Controlled Storage Not everything handles extreme temperatures well. Electronics, photographs, documents, wood furniture, artwork, leather, and other sensitive belongings may benefit from a climate-controlled environment.This can be especially important when storing belongings through the hot Texas summer months. 6. Review Your Insurance Coverage Don't automatically assume your belongings are covered by the storage facility. Check whether your homeowners or renters insurance provides coverage for stored belongings and ask the storage facility about its insurance requirements or available protection options. 7. Inspect the Unit Before Moving In Take a look at the actual storage space before filling it. Check for signs of moisture, ...

Scamper
September 15th, 2026

How to Winterize Your Storage Unit and Stored Items

As colder weather approaches, it’s a good time to prepare your storage unit and belongings for the winter months. Even in Texas, temperatures can change quickly, and occasional freezes, moisture, and winter storms can affect improperly stored items.A little preparation can help keep your belongings organized and protected until you’re ready to use them again. 1. Use Plastic Storage Totes Consider replacing cardboard boxes with sturdy plastic totes, especially for items you plan to store throughout the winter. Plastic containers provide an added layer of protection against dust and moisture and are easy to stack.Make sure everything is completely clean and dry before placing it inside a tote. Label each container so you can quickly find what you need later. 2. Keep Items Off the Floor Whenever possible, use shelving or pallets to elevate boxes and other belongings. Keeping items off the floor can improve organization and provide extra protection if moisture finds its way into the unit.Place heavier containers on the bottom and lighter or fragile items toward the top. 3. Prepare Furniture for Storage Clean and thoroughly dry furniture before putting it into storage. Instead of wrapping furniture tightly in plastic, consider using breathable furniture covers or moving blankets. These can help protect against dust while allowing some airflow.For tables and other furniture that can be safely disassembled, removing legs or other components may also save valuable storage space. 4. Drain Equipment That Contains Water Freezing temperatures can cause water left inside hoses, pressure washers, lawn equipment, and other seasonal items to expand.Drain water from equipment before storing it for winter and follow the manufacturer's recommendations for long-term storage. 5. Remove Batteries If you're storing battery-operated seasonal decorations, tools, toys, or electronics, remove the batteries first. Batteries left inside devices for extended periods can leak or corrode and potentially damage the item.Store batteries separately in an appropriate location. 6. Clean Before You Store Don't put dirty or damp belongings into storage for several months. Clean outdoor equipment, camping gear, furniture, clothing, and other seasonal items and allow everything to dry ...

Scamper
September 4th, 2026

Hurricane Season: Prepare Now, Stay Safe Later

Hurricane season can bring more than just strong winds. Heavy rain, flooding, power outages, fallen trees, and disruptions to everyday services can happen quickly. At Scamper Storage, we encourage our customers and neighbors to prepare before a storm is headed our way. A little preparation now can make a big difference when severe weather arrives. As the storm-prep checklist above shows, start by stocking up on essentials. Keep plenty of drinking water, non-perishable foods, necessary medications, batteries, flashlights, and basic household supplies on hand. Avoid waiting until the last minute, when stores may be crowded or important items may already be sold out. Next, charge your devices. Phones, tablets, laptops, portable chargers, and power banks should be fully charged before the weather deteriorates. If you have a generator, make sure it is ready and that you have the appropriate fuel. Remember to operate generators outdoors and well away from doors, windows, and vents to prevent dangerous carbon monoxide buildup. Don't forget the outside of your home. Secure patio furniture, grills, decorations, toys, umbrellas, and other loose objects that could become dangerous in high winds. Trim questionable tree limbs when it is safe to do so, and bring important documents, valuables, and irreplaceable belongings into a protected location. Most importantly, pay attention to local weather alerts and instructions from emergency officials. Know your evacuation route, understand whether your area is vulnerable to flooding or storm surge, and never drive through flooded roadways. Hurricane season can be unpredictable, but your preparation doesn't have to be. Stock up. Charge up. Secure your property. Stay informed. From all of us at Scamper Storage, stay prepared and stay safe this hurricane season.m ipsum dolor sit amet. ...

Scamper
August 31st, 2026

Moving? Don’t Forget to Change Your Address

Moving comes with a long list of things to do. Between packing boxes, arranging transportation, cleaning, setting up utilities, and getting settled into your new home, one important task can easily slip through the cracks: changing your address.Updating your address involves more than forwarding your mail. From subscriptions and insurance policies to pet records and online shopping accounts, there are quite a few places that need to know where you’ve moved.Here’s how to make sure your mail, bills, packages, and important information follow you to your new home. Start With USPS Mail Forwarding One of the first things you should do is submit a Change of Address request with the United States Postal Service (USPS).USPS mail forwarding helps redirect eligible mail from your previous address to your new one. This can be especially helpful during the first few months after your move while you're updating your information with individual businesses and organizations.However, there’s an important distinction to remember:Forwarding your mail does not automatically change your address with the companies that send it.Think of mail forwarding as a safety net rather than a permanent solution. When forwarded mail arrives, take a moment to look at who sent it. If the sender still has your old address, add them to your update list. Update Your Government Records Several government agencies may need your new address, and some have specific deadlines for reporting a move.Depending on your situation, this may include your driver's license, vehicle registration, voter registration, tax records, and other state or local agencies.If you're moving to another state, make sure you check the requirements for your new state rather than assuming the rules are the same. Banks, Credit Cards and Financial Accounts Your financial institutions should also be high on your priority list.Update your address with your bank, credit union, credit card companies, mortgage provider, lenders, investment accounts, retirement accounts, and other financial services you use.Don't forget about digital payment accounts and wallets that may have your old billing or shipping address stored. Insurance Policies Contact your insurance ...

Scamper
August 18th, 2026

How to Prepare Household Appliances for Storage

Whether you're moving, renovating, downsizing, or simply making more room at home, putting household appliances into a storage unit can be a great solution. But appliances shouldn't simply be unplugged and placed into storage.Moisture, leftover water, dirt, and improper packing can lead to odors, mildew, rust, and damage. Before moving your appliances into storage, take a little time to prepare them properly.Here’s how to prepare refrigerators and freezers, washers, dryers, vacuum cleaners, and carpet cleaners for storage. 1. Refrigerators & Freezers Refrigerators and freezers require some of the most important preparation because they can trap moisture and develop unpleasant odors or mildew.Before storing: Empty all food from the refrigerator and freezer. Unplug the appliance well before moving it. Allow the freezer to completely defrost. Remove shelves and drawers and wash them thoroughly. Clean the interior walls, shelves, drawers, and door seals. Wipe everything dry and allow the appliance to air out. Clean the exterior and remove dust from accessible coils and vents. Secure shelves and drawers so they don't shift during transportation. Keep the power cord secured against the appliance. Storage Tip: Never store a refrigerator or freezer with the door tightly closed. Leave the door slightly open so air can circulate and help prevent trapped moisture, mold, mildew, and odors.Whenever possible, transport and store refrigerators and freezers upright. 2. Washing Machines Even when a washing machine looks empty, water can remain inside hoses, pumps, and other components. Removing as much moisture as possible is especially important before long-term storage.Before storing: Disconnect the washer from power. Turn off the water supply. Disconnect the hot and cold water hoses. Drain as much remaining water as possible from the hoses and machine. Clean the detergent and fabric softener dispensers. Wipe down the drum, door, lid, and exterior. Allow the washer to dry thoroughly before storage. Clean and dry the hoses before packing them separately. Secure the power cord and hoses for transportation. Check your owner's manual for moving instructions. Some washing machines require shipping bolts or other transport hardware to keep the drum from moving and becoming damaged during transportation.Once in storage, consider leaving the washer ...

Scamper
August 17th, 2026

Do You Need Storage Insurance? Here's What Every Storage Customer Should Know

When you rent a self-storage unit, you're taking an important step toward protecting your belongings. But one question many customers don't think about until later is: Are my items automatically insured while they're in storage? The answer may surprise you.In most cases, self-storage facilities do not insure the personal property stored inside your unit. That's why storage insurance is an important part of protecting your belongings against unexpected events. What Is Storage Insurance? Storage insurance is designed to help cover the value of your stored items if they're damaged or lost due to certain covered events. While every policy is different, storage insurance may provide protection against situations such as: 🔥 Fire 🔓 Theft 🚧 Vandalism 🌪️ Certain weather-related damage 💧 Other covered losses as outlined in your policy Having the right coverage can provide valuable financial protection and peace of mind while your belongings are in storage. Where Can You Get Storage Insurance? You may already have coverage without realizing it. Many homeowner's and renter's insurance policies provide some protection for personal property stored away from your home. However, coverage limits, deductibles, and exclusions vary from policy to policy. If your current policy doesn't provide enough protection—or doesn't cover stored property—you may be able to purchase a storage-specific insurance policy. Before storing valuable items, it's always a good idea to contact your insurance provider and ask: Are my stored belongings covered? What are my coverage limits? Are there any exclusions I should know about? Would additional storage insurance be recommended? A quick phone call today can help prevent surprises later. Simple Steps to Protect Your Belongings Whether you're storing household items, business inventory, or family keepsakes, taking a few minutes to prepare can make a big difference if you ever need to file an insurance claim. Take Photos Photograph your belongings before placing them into storage. Clear photos can help document their condition and make the claims process much easier if damage or loss occurs. Create an Inventory Make a list of what's inside your storage unit. Include descriptions, estimated values, and serial numbers for electronics or expensive equipment whenever possible. Review Your Coverage Read your insurance ...

Scamper
August 14th, 2026

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