Storage Choice Presents: Unlocking Space

Dreaming of Coastal Living? The Gulf of America Might Be Your Next Front Porch

Travel And Relocation

Ever catch yourself wishing for a life by the clear blue water—sunshine, sand, and seafood within reach? Well, plenty of folks are packing up and heading to what’s officially called the Gulf of America (yes, that shiny new federal name). It’s easy to see why. Coastal Charm That Doesn’t Break the Bank You get beachside vibes without sky-high costs. Unlike places like Miami or Tampa, many towns along the Gulf of America give you the beachfront lifestyle at a friendly price. Think affordable housing, reasonable rents, and serious value for your dollar. Sun-Kissed Days, Mild Winters Ready to part ways with winter dread? The Gulf delivers with mild winters and sunny, long stretches of summer—perfect for lingering on your porch or indulging in an evening stroll. It’s outdoor living, year-round. Outdoors at Your Doorstep From paddleboarding into the dawn, beach lounging, or fishing off a pier—your options are endless. Lakes, trails, and birdwatching spots? Check, check, and check. Outdoor lovers, meet your playground. Opportunity Knocks—Loud and Clear It’s not just pretty out here—there’s real economic momentum. Healthcare, tourism, energy, shipping, and more are fueling growth across the region. Whether you're starting a career or a business, the Gulf of America offers solid ground to build on. Where Community Feels Like Home Think festivals, fresh-shucked seafood, local art fairs—and a neighborly spirit you won’t find in big cities. People here aren’t just friendly; they make you feel like you're at the right place, right away. Beauty Built Into Every View White-sand beaches, turquoise waves, sunset skies—you’ve seen it in postcards. But here, it’s your everyday walk, your backyard. State parks, bayous, and hidden trails make it feel like every day is a mini getaway. The Best of Both Worlds You get peace and laid-back charm, but you're never far from a city’s conveniences—doctors, shopping, dining, culture. Quiet mornings with easy access to the things that matter. Is It Time to Make the Gulf of America Your Home? If you’re dreaming of affordability, sunshine, and a community that actually cares, this could be your place. At Storage Choice, ...

Storage Choice
September 7th, 2025

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Hidden History Series: The Forgotten Shipwreck of the SS Joseph M. Cudahy

Local History

The Gulf Coast is rich with stories—some celebrated, others long forgotten. In this ongoing series, we’re shining a light on the lesser-known chapters of our region’s past: ghost towns, shipwrecks, lost communities, and remarkable events that shaped the coastline we call home. These stories aren’t just relics—they're reminders of the people, industries, and legacies that built the foundation of today’s Gulf South. In this edition, we revisit the dramatic World War II sinking of the SS Joseph M. Cudahy, a forgotten tragedy that unfolded just off the Florida coast… On a quiet May morning in 1942, deep in the waters of the Gulf of Mexico, tragedy struck just 125 miles west of Naples, Florida. The SS Joseph M. Cudahy, a 430-foot steam tanker loaded with crude and lubricating oil, was torpedoed by a German U-boat—marking one of the many little-known but deadly attacks that took place close to home during World War II. Today, its wreck rests on the sea floor—a silent time capsule, a war grave, and a potential environmental threat—largely forgotten by the general public. This is the story of the Cudahy, a ship that reminds us that even in the warm, serene waters of the Gulf Coast, history runs deep. The Final Voyage The SS Joseph M. Cudahy was built in 1921—an unarmed merchant vessel, 430 feet long, designed to transport large quantities of oil across U.S. waters. On its final voyage, it was carrying over 300,000 gallons of crude and lubricating oil from Houston, Texas, to Marcus Hook, Pennsylvania. But on May 5, 1942, it never made it past the Florida coast. The Attack in the Gulf Just after dawn, the German submarine U-507 fired a torpedo that struck the ship midship. The explosion ignited a massive fire, setting the tanker ablaze. As the fire spread, the crew abandoned ship—but for many, it was too late. Out of 37 crewmembers, only 10 survived. They were eventually rescued by a U.S. Navy aircraft and brought to safety in Key West. As if ...

Storage Choice
August 27th, 2025

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Hurricane Prep Tips: Protecting Your Belongings Before the Storm

Storage Tips

Hurricane season is upon us, preparation is everything. While most people focus on boarding windows and stocking up on supplies, one area often overlooked is protecting personal belongings—especially those not needed during an emergency. Whether you're a homeowner, renter, or business owner, taking a few smart storage steps ahead of time can save you from significant loss and stress later. Here’s how to protect your belongings before the storm hits: 1. Know What to Store and What to Keep With You Before a hurricane warning is issued, identify which items are safe to store and which should remain with you: Store These in a Storage Unit: Furniture and large appliances Seasonal items and sports gear Business inventory or equipment Extra household goods Fragile décor, framed art, and rugs Keep With You: Important documents (ID, insurance, passports) Emergency supplies Medications and essential electronics Pets and irreplaceable valuables 2. Use Climate-Controlled Storage if Available Coastal humidity can worsen quickly during storm season. Climate-controlled storage helps protect: Paper goods Electronics Wood furniture Photographs and heirlooms from moisture and mold—even if power outages affect the area. 3. Prep Your Unit Before the Storm Even in a secure facility, prepping your items helps avoid damage: Place items in plastic bins with tight-fitting lids Elevate boxes on pallets or shelving to prevent water contact Use furniture covers or tarps to block dust and debris Avoid using cardboard for long-term protection—moisture is its enemy 4. Choose a Facility with Security & Accessibility At Storage Choice, our facilities are built with storms in mind. We offer: ✔️ Secure gated access ✔️ 24-hour surveillance ✔️ Indoor and climate-controlled units ✔️ Friendly staff to help with pre-storm guidance 5. Take Inventory (and Photos) Before locking up your storage unit: Create a quick inventory list of everything inside Take photos of items for insurance documentation Double-check that your insurance covers storage if needed Be Storm-Ready with Storage Choice Hurricanes are unpredictable—but your peace of mind doesn’t have to be. With the right storage plan in place, you’ll have one less thing to worry about when the wind starts to blow. 👉 Visit www.storagechoice.net to reserve a unit or learn more about our hurricane-ready storage options. ...

Storage Choice
July 22nd, 2025

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Why Climate-Controlled Storage Is a Must During Hot, Humid Months

Storage Tips

Summer brings sunshine, beach days, and barbecues—but also heat, humidity, and unpredictable weather. While we’re outside enjoying the season, your stored belongings might be facing serious risks if not properly protected. If you're planning to store items during the summer, climate-controlled storage isn't just a luxury—it's a necessity. Here’s why. Extreme Heat Can Warp, Crack, and Ruin Belongings When temperatures soar, so does the risk of heat damage. Items like: Wooden furniture Leather goods Electronics Musical instruments Vinyl records Candles and art supplies can warp, melt, or deteriorate in traditional storage units. Climate-controlled units maintain a consistent temperature—typically between 55°F and 80°F—keeping your valuables safe year-round. Humidity Is the Silent Destroyer High humidity can be just as destructive as heat. Moisture in the air can lead to: Mold and mildew growth Rust on tools, bikes, and appliances Damage to books, photos, and documents Fabric odors and deterioration Climate-controlled storage units regulate both temperature and humidity, creating a dry, stable environment that protects against long-term damage. Great for Seasonal Storage From storing winter clothes and decorations to safely housing your college student’s items between semesters, climate control ensures your belongings stay in the same condition you left them. It's especially important in coastal and southern regions, where summer humidity can reach uncomfortable (and unsafe) levels for delicate items. Cleaner, Better Sealed, Pest-Resistant Because climate-controlled units are typically indoors, they offer an added layer of protection from dust, pests, and outdoor elements. That means fewer worries and less cleanup when you're ready to retrieve your things. Peace of Mind Is Priceless You’ve invested time and money into your belongings—don't let summer conditions undo that. With climate-controlled storage, you get peace of mind knowing everything is stored in a space designed to preserve and protect. Choose Storage Choice for Climate-Controlled Comfort At Storage Choice, we offer clean, secure, and climate-controlled units across our locations to help you weather every season—especially summer. ✔️ Affordable monthly plans ✔️ Flexible sizing options ✔️ Easy online reservations ✔️ Friendly support team Ready to Beat the Heat? Visit www.storagechoice.net to explore climate-controlled unit availability near you. Don’t let the summer sun steal your peace of mind—store smarter with Storage ...

Storage Choice
June 23rd, 2025

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Moving Soon? Why Temporary Storage Makes Life Easier

Storage Tips

Moving is exciting… but let’s be honest—it can also be overwhelming. Whether you're relocating across town or across the country, coordinating packing, timelines, and logistics can feel like juggling flaming boxes. That’s where temporary storage comes in. At Storage Choice, we help make your move smoother, less stressful, and a whole lot more manageable. Here's how. 1. Declutter Before You List Your Home Staging your home for potential buyers? A clean, clutter-free space helps it show better—and sell faster. With a storage unit, you can tuck away excess furniture, seasonal décor, and personal items while keeping them safe until you’re ready for the next chapter. 2. Bridge the Gap Between Move-Out and Move-In Sometimes closing dates don’t line up perfectly. Or maybe you’re building a new home and need a few weeks (or months) of flexibility. Temporary storage gives you a secure place to keep your belongings while you wait, without rushing your move. 3. Simplify the Packing Process Instead of packing everything in a panic, use storage to pack gradually. Move boxes to your unit in stages, giving yourself more time and less pressure. Bonus: your living space stays cleaner and more functional until moving day. 4. Protect Large Furniture and Valuables Moving can be tough on bulky or delicate items. At Storage Choice, we offer climate-controlled units that help protect wooden furniture, electronics, and artwork from humidity and temperature swings during your transition. 5. Take the Stress Off Your Shoulders Moving is one of life’s top stressors. Temporary storage gives you more control, flexibility, and breathing room—so you can focus on settling in, not scrambling for space. 6. Ready to Make Your Move Easier? At Storage Choice, we’re more than just a place to put your stuff—we’re part of your moving plan. With flexible storage options and on-site U-Haul rentals, we make transitions smoother from start to finish. 👉 Visit www.storagechoice.net to find a location near you and reserve your temporary storage unit (and truck!) today. Because moving is hard enough. Let us help you store—and move—smarter. ...

Storage Choice
June 12th, 2025

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How to Protect Your Items in Long-Term Storage

Storage Tips

When life changes—whether you’re moving, downsizing, or storing things for future use—long-term storage can be a lifesaver. But without the right preparation, your items can suffer damage over time from dust, moisture, pests, or temperature shifts. At Storage Choice, we want to make sure your belongings come out of storage looking just as good as the day you packed them away. Here’s your essential guide to protecting your items for the long haul. 🏷️ 1. Choose the Right Storage Unit Not all storage spaces are created equal. For long-term storage, we strongly recommend: ✅ Climate-controlled units for temperature-sensitive items like electronics, wood furniture, photos, and important documents. ✅ Secure, clean, and well-maintained facilities (like ours!) to give you peace of mind your belongings are in good hands. 📦 2. Pack with Purpose Invest in high-quality packing materials—strong boxes, bubble wrap, mattress covers, and plastic bins with tight lids. Avoid using grocery store boxes or old newspapers, which can attract pests or transfer ink onto your items. Pro tip: Fill boxes fully (but not too heavy!) to prevent collapse, and never overload large boxes with heavy items like books. 3. Label Everything Clearly Mark every box with: What’s inside Which room it came from Whether it’s fragile Clear labeling helps you stay organized and makes it much easier to find specific items when you need them. 🛋️ 4. Elevate and Cover Place pallets or boards under your boxes to keep them off the floor, reducing exposure to potential moisture. Cover large items like furniture and mattresses with breathable covers—not plastic wrap—to prevent condensation and mold. 🐜 5. Guard Against Pests At Storage Choice we pride ourselves with clean, pest-controlled, secure facilities. That said,it’s smart to take precautions. Storing food is PROHIBITED! Avoid scented items that attract pests. Use sealed plastic bins where possible. Check if your facility offers pest control services (good news: Storage Choice does!). 🗂️ 6. Check on Your Items Periodically If possible, visit your unit every few months to inspect your belongings. Look for signs of moisture, mold, or pests and rearrange items to promote airflow. 🔑 Why Trust Storage ...

Storage Choice
May 2nd, 2025

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Inventory Overflow? Storage Units Are the Secret Weapon for Online Sellers

Storage Tips

Running a successful online business is exciting—but it can also turn your living room into a warehouse overnight. If you're an e-commerce seller juggling boxes, packing tape, and product overflow, you're not alone. Whether you’re selling on Etsy, eBay, Amazon, or TikTok Shop, inventory management is one of the biggest challenges for small business owners. That’s where Storage Choice comes in. 🧠 Why Smart Sellers Use Storage Units Storage units aren’t just for moving or decluttering—they’re powerful tools for streamlining your operations and protecting your inventory. Here’s how a self-storage unit can become your secret weapon: ✅ 1. Free Up Valuable Space at Home Let’s face it—there are only so many closets, garages, and guest rooms you can take over. A self-storage unit gives you the breathing room you need to run your business like a pro without sacrificing your home life. ✅ 2. Organize Your Inventory Like a Warehouse With a little planning, your storage unit can function like a mini fulfillment center. Install shelving, use labeled bins, and create zones by product category. Bonus? You’ll save time finding items when it’s time to ship. ✅ 3. Save Money Compared to Renting Commercial Space Leasing a storefront or office space can eat into your profits. Storage Choice offers flexible, affordable monthly plans with no long-term contracts, so you only pay for the space you need—when you need it. ✅ 4. Protect Your Products from Damage Climate-controlled units at Storage Choice help shield sensitive products—like paper goods, electronics, fabrics, and cosmetics—from humidity and extreme temperatures. Your customers expect quality. We help you deliver it. ✅ 5. Scale at Your Own Pace Growth is a good problem to have—but only if you’re prepared for it. With storage units available in multiple sizes, you can scale up or down depending on your seasonal needs, new product launches, or sales surges. 💡 Bonus Tip: Use Your Unit as a Pickup or Prep Station Some online sellers even use their storage unit as a packaging station or local pickup point. Just be sure to check with our team ...

Storage Choice
April 15th, 2025

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E-Commerce & Storage Units: A Smart Solution for Growing Online Businesses

Business Owners

Running an e-commerce business is exciting, but as your sales grow, so does the need for space! Whether you're selling on Etsy, eBay, Amazon, Shopify, or another platform, managing inventory, packaging materials, and seasonal stock can quickly overwhelm your home or office. That’s where self-storage comes in! Storage units offer a secure, affordable, and flexible solution to keep your business organized while helping you scale efficiently. Here’s why a storage unit is a game-changer for growing e-commerce businesses and how Storage Choice can help you take your business to the next level. 1. Say Goodbye to Inventory Overload at Home One of the biggest challenges for e-commerce sellers is finding space for inventory. If your living room, garage, or spare bedroom is overflowing with boxes, it’s time for an upgrade. ✅ A storage unit provides: A dedicated space for inventory organization Extra room for bulk orders and seasonal stock A clutter-free home and office environment 💡 Pro Tip: Use labeled shelving and clear bins to keep products organized so you can easily grab what you need! 2. Keep Business & Personal Life Separate Running an e-commerce store from home is convenient, but when inventory takes over your personal space, it can be overwhelming. Having a designated storage unit allows you to create better work-life balance and keep business operations separate from home life. 🔹 Benefits of using self-storage for business: ✔️ No more stepping over boxes in your living room ✔️ A more professional and organized business workflow ✔️ Peace of mind knowing inventory is stored securely 3. Cost-Effective Alternative to Warehouses Leasing commercial warehouse space can be expensive and often requires long-term commitments. A storage unit offers flexible month-to-month rental options, making it a budget-friendly solution for small and growing e-commerce businesses. 💰 Storage units vs. warehouses: Lower monthly costs than commercial spaces No long-term leases—scale up or down as needed No utility bills or extra overhead expenses 4. Secure & Climate-Controlled Storage for Your Products Worried about product safety? Storage Choice facilities offer secure, climate-controlled units to protect sensitive inventory such as: 📦 Ideal for storing: Clothing & textiles (prevents moisture damage) Electronics ...

Storage Choice
February 27th, 2025

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Preparing for Record Cold in The Deep South: Storage Tips and General Advice

Storage Tips

Record-breaking cold temperatures and even the rare possibility of snow is forecast for the deep south with forecasts predicting possible snowfall reaching Gulf Shores, AL. While snow on the Gulf Coast is a novelty, it also comes with challenges for protecting your belongings and property. Whether you’re a storage customer or a homeowner, these tips will help you stay ahead of the chill. 📦 Protecting Items in Non-Climate-Controlled Storage Units 1. Insulate and Cover Items Protect temperature-sensitive belongings like electronics, wood furniture, and fabrics by wrapping them in heavy moving blankets or plastic sheeting. Use tightl 2. Elevate Off the Ground Keep your items safe from condensation or cold seeping through the floor by raising them on pallets or shelving units. 3. Use Moisture Absorbers Humidity can fluctuate in cold weather. Place moisture absorbers or silica gel packets in your storage boxes to combat mold and mildew. 4. Avoid Storing Liquids Freezing can cause liquids to expand, leading to spills or container damage. Store these items elsewhere during the cold snap. 🏠 General Cold Weather Preparedness Tips 1. Protect Pipes and Faucets Wrap outdoor faucets and exposed pipes to prevent freezing. Indoors, drip your faucets to maintain water flow 2. Stock Up on Supplies Prepare for potential power outages with flashlights, batteries, non-perishable food, and blankets. Don’t forget pet supplies! 3. Cover Plants and Outdoor Furniture Shield your outdoor plants with frost covers and move furniture into covered spaces to prevent ice damage. 4. Check Your Heating System Ensure your heating system is in good working order. Replace air filters and test thermostats ahead of the cold snap. 5. Prepare Your Vehicle Inspect your tires and have a winter emergency kit with blankets, water, and a phone charger in your car. ✨ Stay Safe, Stay Warm This cold snap might bring some unique sights to the Gulf Coast, but with proper preparation, you can weather the storm comfortably and protect your belongings. Need help or advice on storage solutions? Contact Storage Choice today for expert guidance. ...

Storage Choice
January 18th, 2025

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Stash Your Holiday Gifts with Storage Choice: The Perfect Hideaway for a Festive Surprise!

Storage Tips

The holiday season is around the corner, and the joy of gift-giving is already in the air! But while the magic of the holidays is real, so is the struggle of finding a hiding spot for all those presents. If you're tired of squeezing gifts into closets, hiding them under the bed, or risking a curious loved one stumbling upon your carefully chosen presents, it’s time for a new plan. Enter Storage Choice! Renting a storage unit might just be your holiday season game-changer. Let’s explore how a self-storage unit can help you stash gifts safely and keep the surprise alive! Why Choose a Storage Unit for Holiday Gifts? When it comes to hiding holiday gifts, space at home is often limited. And let's be real—your kids, partner, or roommates probably know all your classic hiding spots by now! Storage Choice offers an ideal solution by providing a secure, out-of-the-way place to store gifts of all shapes and sizes. From bulky bikes to delicate ornaments, a storage unit gives you room to keep your secrets safe until the big day arrives. Keep the Element of Surprise Alive Let’s face it—curiosity peaks during the holidays. Whether it’s kids sneaking a peek or roommates who love a good guessing game, it can be challenging to keep gifts under wraps. A storage unit gives you an off-site location to hide gifts, eliminating the temptation for peeking eyes at home. It’s the perfect way to keep everyone in suspense until it’s time to celebrate! Extra Space for Bulkier Gifts Some gifts are simply too big to hide in a closet. Have you bought your child that dream dollhouse or a brand-new bike? Or maybe you’re surprising someone with a home entertainment system? Storage Choice units come in all sizes, so whether you’re storing small presents or big-ticket items, you can find the right fit. Climate-Controlled Units for Delicate Items If you’ve purchased items that need a bit more TLC—like electronics, leather goods, or musical instruments—a climate-controlled storage unit is the answer. These ...

Storage Choice
November 11th, 2024

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