Self-storage units protect valuables in belongingsSelf-storage in Kannapolis NC provides a secure option for your belongings, but what happens during an emergency evacuation?
Imagine this: a natural disaster, like a hurricane or wildfire, has just been announced in your area. Local authorities issue an emergency evacuation order, and you're left with a limited window of time to decide what to take and what to leave behind. Now, if you've been renting a self-storage unit, you might be wondering whether it's better to remove your belongings or leave them safely locked up. Should you risk returning to your storage unit in the midst of the chaos, or is it safer to let your items stay where they are?
This article will help you answer those important questions and give you tips on how to prepare your belongings for an emergency evacuation, particularly when they’re in a self-storage unit.
Should You Remove Your Items of Value During an Emergency Evacuation?One of the first things you might think about during an emergency evacuation is what to do with your valuable items. This is understandable, especially when you may have expensive or sentimental belongings stored in your unit.
However, when it comes to evacuations, time is of the essence. The decision to evacuate means that local authorities are prioritizing safety. Trying to access your self-storage unit in the middle of an evacuation could put you at significant risk. The roads may be blocked, or the area could be unsafe. If authorities have ordered an evacuation, it's important to trust the process and head to safety.
Instead of scrambling to get to your storage unit, consider whether there is enough time for you to retrieve critical items safely. If it's just a matter of a few valuables or irreplaceable documents, it might be worth the effort. But, you should always keep in mind that your personal safety should be your number one priority.
Is It Safer to Leave Your Belongings in Storage During an Emergency Evacuation?This question is tough because it depends largely on the nature of the emergency. For most evacuation scenarios, whether it's a fire, flood, or storm, it’s typically safer to leave your belongings in the storage unit rather than risk getting stuck in traffic or potentially dangerous conditions while attempting to retrieve them. Storage units, especially those in secure, climate-controlled facilities, are often built to withstand certain types of disasters, such as flooding and fires, and they provide added protection for your items.
In general, storage units in safe, well-maintained facilities are designed to keep your items protected from a variety of elements. Self-storage providers often implement fire suppression systems, reinforced structures, and additional safeguards to help protect your possessions. During an evacuation, these factors could make the storage unit a safer place for your belongings than trying to retrieve them and moving them somewhere else.
However, it’s important to consider the type of emergency. In the case of a wildfire or similar disaster, where smoke or heat can easily penetrate structures, your items may be at risk. On the other hand, flooding could also impact ground-level storage units. Be sure to assess the type of threat you're facing and weigh your options.
Tips to Prepare Your Belongings for an Emergency Evacuation
Check Your Storage Unit’s Location and SecurityKnowing your self-storage unit’s location and what security measures are in place can give you peace of mind during an emergency. Is your storage unit in an area that’s prone to flooding or wildfires? Does the facility have backup systems in place, such as fire alarms or flood barriers? Checking the security features, such as surveillance cameras and 24/7 on-site staff, can also ensure your items are safe even if you’re unable to access the unit during an emergency.
Disaster-Proof Your ItemsTo ensure your belongings are safe regardless of the disaster, you’ll want to make sure your items are stored in a way that maximizes protection. Consider investing in high-quality, waterproof, and fireproof containers to store important documents, electronics, and irreplaceable items. This step can help safeguard your belongings in the event of fire, water damage, or other emergency situations.
Label Your Boxes ClearlyIf you're storing a variety of items in your self-storage unit, labeling your boxes clearly can help you quickly identify and access the things you may need during an emergency evacuation. Keep an inventory list of what’s in each box and label them with essential details (e.g., “Important Documents,” “Winter Clothes,” “First-Aid Kit,” etc.). If you can quickly locate essential items in your storage unit, it may save you time if you need to access them quickly.
Consider Renting a Climate-Controlled UnitIf your items are sensitive to temperature fluctuations, consider upgrading to a climate-controlled self-storage unit. These units maintain a consistent temperature and humidity level, which can help protect delicate items like electronics, artwork, and documents. If you're unsure whether your self-storage facility offers climate control, check with them to see if this option is available.
Pack for Quick AccessIn case you need to grab certain items in the middle of an evacuation, keep things organized and easily accessible. For example, place valuable documents, passports, and photos in a portable, grab-and-go box. If you're storing seasonal items, like holiday decorations or winter clothes, consider keeping them in containers that can be easily stacked or pulled out when needed.
Review Your Insurance CoverageSelf-storage units typically offer insurance, but it's important to review your coverage before an emergency arises. Some types of coverage might not fully protect against all forms of disaster, so it's wise to speak with the storage facility and your insurance provider to understand what is covered. If you're unsure about what coverage your facility offers, ask them for more details about their policies.
When Should You Contact Your Self-Storage Facility?In the midst of an evacuation, you might have more questions about what to do with your belongings. While it’s crucial to prioritize your safety first, contacting your self-storage facility can give you more clarity. Many storage providers, including Mr. Storage NC, will have emergency protocols in place to keep your belongings secure.
Mr. Storage NC, for example, has 24/7 surveillance, climate-controlled units, and fire prevention measures in place. These services ensure that your items remain safe and sound in case of an emergency. They can also provide further advice on whether it’s best to retrieve your items or leave them behind. They understand the urgency of such situations and can offer guidance based on the specifics of the emergency at hand.
During an emergency evacuation, the key is to prioritize your personal safety first. While it’s natural to want to protect your valuables, trying to retrieve your belongings during a chaotic evacuation can put you in danger. Generally, it’s safer to leave your items in your self-storage unit, especially if the unit is well-secured and protected by safety measures like climate control and fire suppression systems.
Before an emergency occurs, take steps to prepare your belongings. Disaster-proof your items, use clear labeling, and ensure you have the right insurance coverage. Lastly, stay in touch with your self-storage provider to learn about any emergency plans and how your belongings will be protected.
At Mr. Storage NC, your safety and your items' security are top priorities. With reliable storage solutions, you can have peace of mind knowing that your belongings are in good hands, even when disaster strikes.
Rent Self-storage units in Kannapolis NCMr. Storage is locally owned and managed with affordable pricing. We have storage facilities in Concord, Salisbury, Harrisburg, Midland, and Kannapolis NC. Contact us today to reserve your unit.

Storage units near me for affordable office space
Storage units near me in Kannapolis NC are becoming a smart alternative for startups looking for affordable and flexible office space.

Imagine you’ve just launched a new startup. You’re passionate about your product, the team is ready, and you’re eager to get things off the ground. The only challenge? Finding an affordable space to work from. Traditional office spaces come with a hefty price tag, long-term leases, and additional overhead. In today’s world, more startups are turning to a creative solution: storage units.

That’s right—storage units, often overlooked as mere places to stash extra belongings, can serve as functional and budget-friendly mini offices. With the rise of flexible workspaces and the need for cost-effective solutions, using storage units for office space is becoming a growing trend for startups in 2025. But why should startups even consider this approach? Let’s dive into the reasons.

• Affordability Without Compromise

One of the biggest hurdles for any new business is managing expenses. Renting an office in a commercial building typically requires a hefty deposit, long-term commitment, and ongoing high rent. On the other hand, storage units provide a fraction of the cost for a similar amount of space. With just the basics—electricity, internet, and perhaps a few small furnishings—you can create an environment that fits your needs without the financial strain.

Additionally, many storage companies offer month-to-month rental options. This flexibility is especially appealing to startups, which often need to adapt quickly to changing circumstances. For instance, if your team grows rapidly or your business needs change, you can adjust your space without being tied down by a long-term lease.
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• Flexibility and Scalability

Startups are all about flexibility. In the early stages, you may not know exactly how your business will evolve, making it hard to predict what kind of office space you’ll need. Opting for a storage unit allows you to scale up or down as necessary.

Many storage units near me offer a range of sizes, so you can start small and expand as your business grows. If you need more space for equipment, inventory, or even team members, you can easily upgrade to a larger unit. You won’t be locked into a fixed lease that forces you to pay for unused space, which makes it easier to navigate the unpredictable nature of a startup.

• Prime Location at Lower Cost

Many storage facilities are conveniently located in both urban and suburban areas, often close to major highways and easily accessible. As a result, your team can work in a prime location without the premium price tag of renting traditional office space. For startups that want to be in a central area but can’t afford high rent, this is an ideal solution.

Since storage units are often located in industrial zones or close to commercial districts, you’re also likely to find plenty of parking and easy access for deliveries or clients. While storage units may not have the glamour of a high-rise office building, they provide functionality that meets the needs of growing businesses.

• Minimal Overhead and Operational Costs

Renting an office space involves much more than just paying the rent. Office buildings often come with additional costs such as utilities, cleaning services, security, and maintenance. These expenses can quickly add up, especially when you're just starting. By choosing a storage unit, startups can eliminate many of these costs.

With a storage unit, you only pay for the space you need, and typically utilities like electricity are included in the rental price. Plus, the maintenance responsibilities usually fall on the storage facility provider. This can help startups cut down on overhead and streamline their operations.

• Privacy and Security

When you’re running a business, security is a top priority. Traditional office spaces often come with security, but it’s typically shared with other tenants, which could expose your business to risks. With a storage unit, you get a dedicated space that’s more secure. Many storage facilities offer enhanced security features such as video surveillance, gated access, and even personal PIN codes to ensure only authorized individuals can access your unit.

For startups that deal with sensitive information, products, or proprietary data, this added layer of security can be a huge advantage. Plus, the privacy of a storage unit allows you to control who has access to your workspace.

• A Dedicated Space for Focus

The startup journey can be overwhelming, especially when you’re working from home or a coffee shop. Finding a quiet, dedicated place to work is crucial for productivity. Storage units offer a great alternative to noisy, distraction-filled environments. You can set up your unit with all the essentials—a desk, a chair, a filing cabinet—and create an atmosphere that promotes focus and creativity.

Moreover, since storage units are typically located in quieter areas, you’re less likely to be interrupted by foot traffic, loud street noise, or the distractions that often come with working in public spaces.

• Ease of Access to Inventory and Equipment

Many startups, especially in e-commerce or product-based industries, need space to store inventory or equipment. Traditional office spaces often don’t provide enough room for stock or supplies. Storage units offer the perfect solution for businesses that need to keep inventory or extra materials on hand.

Not only do you have the space you need, but you can also access your inventory easily. Many storage facilities allow you 24/7 access, so you can grab whatever you need at any time. This is especially useful if your startup involves product shipping or frequent restocking.

• Less Commitment, More Freedom

Starting a business is all about taking risks, but when it comes to choosing the right office space, you don’t want to be burdened with long-term commitments. Traditional office leases often require a one-year or even multi-year commitment, which could leave you stuck in a space that no longer works for your business. Storage units offer month-to-month rental agreements, allowing you to try out the space without committing to anything long-term.

If your business grows or changes, you can move to a larger unit, or if things aren’t working out, you can easily walk away without the financial burden of a long lease. This flexibility is perfect for startups that are still figuring things out.

• The Eco-Friendly Advantage

Startups in 2025 are increasingly mindful of their environmental footprint. Storage units offer a more eco-friendly option than traditional office spaces, especially since many storage facilities are already built with energy-efficient features. Instead of contributing to the demand for more commercial real estate, you’re repurposing existing spaces that are designed to be used for various purposes. By choosing storage units, you’re helping reduce the overall environmental impact of building new office spaces.

Why Mr. Storage NC is a Great Option for Startups in Kannapolis NC
If you're considering storage units near me as an office space solution in Kannapolis NC, Mr. Storage NC could be the right choice for your business. With several convenient locations, flexible rental terms, and a range of unit sizes, they offer everything a startup needs to set up a practical and cost-effective workspace.

Their storage units are secure, affordable, and offer easy access, making them ideal for startups looking for a smart, budget-friendly alternative to traditional office spaces. Additionally, with climate-controlled options available, you can protect sensitive equipment or products from harsh weather conditions.

As the startup ecosystem continues to evolve, creative solutions for office spaces are becoming more popular. Storage units offer an affordable, flexible, and secure option for businesses that want to minimize overhead while maximizing productivity. With the ability to scale up as your business grows, and the freedom to adjust your space as needed, storage units are quickly becoming a top choice for startups in 2025.

If you’re ready to explore this innovative solution, searching for "storage units near me" might just be the first step toward finding the perfect mini office for your startup. Mr. Storage NC could be the ideal partner to help your business thrive in this new era of flexible, cost-effective workspaces.

Reserve storage units near me in Kannapolis NC
​Mr. Storage is locally owned and managed with affordable pricing. We have storage facilities in Concord, Salisbury, Harrisburg, Midland, and Kannapolis NC. Contact us today to reserve your unit.