Business Storage Do's & Don'ts

Running a business in the Nashville metro area comes with its unique challenges. That is, finding affordable, accessible space for inventory, equipment, and documents is often at the top of the list. If you're a growing e-commerce seller, a contractor with seasonal equipment, or a small business owner drowning in paperwork, a storage unit can be your secret weapon for staying organized and profitable.

But here's the thing. At StorPlace Self Storage on Gallatin Pike in Madison, TN, we've seen it all. From brilliantly organized units that function like off-site warehouses to chaotic spaces that cost businesses time and money.

Let's dive into the essential do's and don'ts of business storage to help you maximize your investment and keep your operation running smoothly.

The DO's of Business Storage

DO Verify Your Storage Facility Allows Commercial Use

Before you sign any paperwork, confirm that your storage facility permits business use. Not all self-storage locations allow commercial storage, and the last thing you need is a lease violation disrupting your operations.

At StorPlace Self Storage in Madison, we welcome business customers and understand the unique needs of local entrepreneurs, contractors, and e-commerce sellers. Our location on Gallatin Pike offers convenient access to I-65, making it perfect for businesses serving Nashville, Hendersonville, and the surrounding areas.

DO Choose Climate-Controlled Storage for Sensitive Items

Tennessee's humid summers and unpredictable winters can wreak havoc on your business inventory. If you're storing:

• Electronics and computer equipment
• Important documents and files
• Sensitive inventory (cosmetics, candles, food items)
• Wood furniture or fixtures
• Pharmaceutical supplies
• Artwork or promotional materials

Climate control isn't a luxury. It's a necessity. Temperature and humidity fluctuations can cause warping, mold, electronic failure, and product degradation that could cost thousands in losses.

DO Invest in Proper Shelving and Organization

Think of your storage unit as an extension of your business because that's exactly what it is. Investing in sturdy metal shelving units pays for itself quickly through:

• Time savings: Find what you need in seconds, not minutes
• Space optimization: Vertical storage doubles or triples your capacity
• Inventory protection: Items stay off the floor, away from potential water damage
• Professional appearance: Organized spaces reflect your business values

Pro tip: Use clear plastic bins labeled with contents and date codes for maximum visibility.

DO Create a Detailed Inventory System

Your storage unit shouldn't be where inventory goes to disappear. Implement a system that works for your business:

1. Digital inventory management: Use apps like Sortly, Inventory Now, or even a detailed spreadsheet
2. Label everything: Use a labeling system with categories, dates, and SKUs
3. Map your unit: Create a simple diagram showing where items are located
4. Regular audits: Schedule monthly or quarterly inventory checks

This approach is especially critical for businesses using storage for retail inventory, seasonal products, or equipment rotation.

DO Secure Proper Business Insurance

This is non-negotiable. Your standard business insurance may not cover items stored off-site, and facility insurance typically provides limited coverage. Contact your insurance agent to:

• Add off-site storage coverage to your business policy
• Verify coverage limits match your inventory value
• Understand what scenarios are and aren't covered
• Keep updated inventory records for claims purposes

DO Choose Strategic Access Hours

For business storage, access flexibility can make or break your efficiency. Consider your actual business needs:

• E-commerce sellers: May need early morning or evening access for shipping
• Contractors: Require early access before job sites open
• Retail businesses: Need weekend access for restocking

StorPlace Self Storage offers extended access hours designed around business schedules, not just residential convenience.

The DON'Ts of Business Storage

DON'T Store Prohibited Items

This should be obvious, but violations happen more often than you'd think. Never store:

• Hazardous materials (certain cleaning chemicals, solvents, gasoline)
• Perishable food items
• Living things (plants that need care, animals)
• Illegal items or controlled substances
• Weapons or ammunition (check facility-specific policies)
• Items with strong odors that affect neighboring units

Violations can result in lease termination, legal liability, and complete loss of your business inventory. When in doubt, ask the facility management.

DON'T Neglect Pest Prevention

Warehouses and storage facilities can attract pests, and an infestation can destroy your inventory overnight. Prevention strategies include:

• Never store food products in the original cardboard packaging
• Use sealed plastic containers instead of cardboard boxes
• Place pest deterrent strips or traps in your unit
• Inspect items before placing them in storage
• Avoid bringing in used cardboard from unknown sources

DON'T Forget About Accessibility

We've seen businesses rent large units and pack them so tightly that accessing anything requires a complete unpacking job. This defeats the entire purpose of storage convenience.

Design your storage layout with aisles and access paths:

• Leave a central aisle down the middle of your unit
• Create zones for different inventory types
• Place frequently accessed items near the door
• Use shelving to create "walk-in closet" accessibility

Your time is valuable. Don't waste it playing storage Tetris every time you need something.

DON'T Store Items Directly on the Floor

Even in climate-controlled units, protect your inventory from:

• Potential water intrusion from weather events
• Dust and debris accumulation
• Pest access
• Temperature variations (floors can be colder)

Use pallets, shelving, or plastic risers to keep everything elevated at least 4-6 inches off the ground.

DON'T Overlook Documentation and Records

If you're storing business documents, tax records, or client files:

• Use fireproof and waterproof document boxes
• Maintain a detailed list of what documents are stored and where
• Understand legal retention requirements for your industry
• Consider digitization for critical documents
• Ensure compliance with data privacy regulations (especially for client information)

DON'T Skip Regular Maintenance Visits

Out of sight shouldn't mean out of mind. Schedule regular visits to:

• Check for temperature or humidity issues
• Inspect for pest activity
• Verify security measures are functioning
• Rotate inventory as needed
• Update your inventory system
• Check for any facility maintenance issues

Monthly visits are ideal; quarterly should be your absolute minimum.

Business Storage Best Practices for Maximum ROI

Strategic Location Matters

StorPlace Self Storage's location on Gallatin Pike offers significant advantages for Madison-area businesses:

• Quick access to I-65 North and South
• Minutes from Rivergate, Goodlettsville, and Hendersonville
• Easy access to Nashville proper via Gallatin Pike
• Proximity to major commercial corridors
• Convenient for delivery services and customer access

When every minute counts, location can dramatically impact your operational efficiency.

Visit us at 2360 Gallatin Pike N, Madison, TN 37115 or call us today to discuss your business storage needs. Let's create a storage solution that works as hard as you do.