Protect documents and valuables, estimate the load, and avoid surprises at the gate with one structured pass through the unit.
Confirm that you can authorize access
Bring the account information, access code, lock key, and identification required by the facility. If you represent someone else, ask the facility what authorization it needs before scheduling labor.
Photograph by zone
Take a wide photograph of each wall and closer images of furniture, appliances, and dense stacks. The purpose is not a perfect catalog; it is to identify the major item groups and the likely loading volume.
Open records before removal day
Review boxes that may hold tax documents, titles, legal papers, photographs, medication, or personal electronics. Mark retained boxes on more than one visible side so the label remains visible after items move.
Check the route out
Ask about gate hours, elevators, carts, truck parking, loading docks, and move-out rules. A unit near the elevator is a different job from one at the end of a long interior corridor.
Quick checklist
- Authorization and ID
- Gate code and lock key
- Wide photos of each wall
- Retained boxes marked
- Furniture and heavy items listed
- Facility checkout steps confirmed