storage news and stories

WE HAVE MOVED.

2010-01-12T04:57:00.000-08:00

Image by .craig via Flickr

Thats right we have now moved to a new site.... This is so we can offer our readers more from there visit. We how have our own Self Storage search engine. Hints and Tips on Self Storage, and there is more in development for the coming months. We hope yo like it..

The full Upickstorage experience.

2010-01-04T08:48:00.000-08:00

This is our good bye to 2009 – and good riddance! We have been repeatedly asked why we tok down the posts chronicling our adventures in the US earlier this year and there were MANY reasons for taking down all the parts. The first big reason is that we wanted to evolve the site and offer the new search facility we now have running live. The second reason is that the different parts really chopped up the blog and new readers weren’t able to easily find things from the beginning – making it a hash of info.

: Image by Fliznasi via Flickr

SO, to answer the requests for the 7^th and final part and to appease the many people who emailed asking “WHY WOULD YOU REMOVE YOUR STORY?! “ we have condensed the whole sorry 6 months of hell into one, easy to read post. We didn’t spend a lot of time editing the parts themselves, so you will see a few references to the “parts” of our story, but it’s all here.
What you will, however, find missing are both the lovely messages of support we received on the posts as well as the incredibly evil, nasty remarks we had to delete. Since we have replied to each of those messages posted we didn’t think there would be much call to repost them.
So, here is the whole sorry story in one go – including the end (formerly called part 7) in all it’s glory:
Our Story – 2009
Well, way back at the beginning of 2009 we were asked to advise upickstorage.com on how to put together a database of all storage and mini-storage facilities within the United States. This was by my partners older Brother. So as a couple, my partner and I set out looking how this could be done the cheapest, fastest way possible. We found that it would expensive for each individual state if purchased from a reputable marketing company. After further discussions, my partners’ younger brother established that we could use a Library facility and do it manually. For example: you can down load 25 individual company details at a time, which then could be transferred to a separate Excel spread sheet. In total it was over 64,000 companies we needed to extract. It was said that for this database, they would obtain a work visa for me to come to the US and continue helping with the site and they wanted my partner’s help setting up the office with the US. This was ideal for us because although I am from the UK, my partner is from the US and wanted to be closer to her family.

After weeks of working on this database we had half the names needed. I mean we worked. Morning, noon and night. Every spare moment outside of our regular 9-5 job was put in to building this database for the foundations of upickstorage.
We finally finished the database and forwarded this to upickstorge.com’s office in Louisiana. It was difficult because no one in the office knew how to operate Excel! So instead, each individual state had to be extracted, saved and emailed separately to my partner’s old brother. Both the owners got very excited the database was finished. But we still had to explain how to open a CSV file!? The next day my partners’ younger brother called thanking us, and stated that this would not go unrewarded as he realized how much had gone in to the database…
A month went by and the Visa issue got passed back and forth and finally to someone who relied heavily on us to put together the visa application. We were lead to believe that this was due to the fact that they did not understand the process?!
We received a number of calls from people asking when we would be in the States to assist with the project and that our assistance was needed sooner rather than later. We explained that we both had a LIFE! Family, children, jobs and a home and it would take time to co-ordinate a move of that magnitude. We raised our concerns and our insecurities about the whole business, each time we were told that we should have faith and be more entrepreneurial. It was also mentioned that if upickstorage failed for any reason there would always be a job for us in Louisiana.

The process of moving started to take off. We handed in our notices at work and we started to sell all our belongings. It was a living hell; every day our possessions were slowing disappearing out the door. Each day we both felt parts of our life vanish. Finally everything we owned was sold. It came to a small pocket full of money. We said our goodbyes to everyone that matters, including 3 very special children, it was the hardest good bye ever, even though we knew it was not going to be forever.
Even though we felt emptiness from leaving, we had high hopes and we were going to start a life that the children would benefit from. We’d be working towards the goal of having assisting in the business, with talk of possibility to travel between US and the UK more often, seeing family and opening doors and opportunities for those in our life that mattered.
So the day finally came, we arrived in the great United States. To the people that cared and would never hurt us, to our family. It was exciting and yet scary. We landed in Philadelphia, tired from the flight but still our hopes were high. We got to the customs line and the nightmare started. The customs and immigration person who processed us had CLEARLY had a bad day and decided we were good targets for his rage. We didn’t realize they have unlimited discretionary powers… he decided that an 89 day stay in the US was far too much for his comfort – especially so soon after our last visit 8 months previously. He flagged one of our passports and said to “leave a reasonable amount of time” between our visits but never actually told us what a reasonable amount of time WAS.
Finally it was over and we headed for food whilst we waited the nine hours for our next flight. That was when the bombshell about the visa was dropped. The Visa process had been stopped because nobody knew what they were doing and it was beginning to look very messy.
Three hours later we finally landed in New Orleans. It was hot and clammy, but it was also a relief. It was 1am when finally got to our new temporary home. We were also informed that we were expected in the Office at 9am the next day.
Thanks for all the views people we have more than doubled in viewers in the last 3 days. we promise we will update you with part 3 soon…
Part 3 of our story… It should be noted that we received an email stating there would be ramifications for our blogs. I like it noted that I am not writing anything libelous and have not broken any laws, I am stating facts from my perspective, and how upickstorage felt it was appropriate not to pay me for any of my time or effort… What people take from these blogs is up to them.
At 9am that Friday 12th June we were met by a guy who called himself Vice President of Operations for Upickstorage. He went over a number of systems he had put in place within the upickstorage office. He stated he would complete a list of systems and passwords for us as he was due to fly home and did not want to spend a moment longer in Louisiana. He promised he would have this to us by 3pm…. We didn’t receive the list until 5 days later, and when we did finally receive it, it was as much use as a chocolate fireguard!

We had a meeting with the owners that Friday, they told us that due to the fact that the Visa process had been stopped, we should work on the UK side of the Business with the idea that it could go live in the UK on our return to the UK in September and that we should observe as much as possible about the back end and the operational side of the business.
So, since my partner is a US citizen and she could legally be paid there and then, they decided to pay her a fraction of what she would USUALLY be paid. Her main duties appeared to be to manage the office, staff, scheduling and whatever else needed to be done, while I worked on the SEO, blogs, observed the office procedures and did whatever else needed to be done to help out – which turned out to be installing computers, installing software, staff training, IT, installing modems, answering phones, dealing with staff, rotas – just about everything that needs to be done in an office environment with the impression I would be paid when I left the US in September.
The following Wednesday we met with their CPA to discuss exactly how a non-resident alien on a Visitors/Business Visa should be paid. During the meeting it was established that we should be paid for the work done in the UK by cheque and any work done while in the US could be paid by cheque once we left the US. It was also pointed out that there is a tax treaty between the UK and the US, and we would have to file our own taxes on our return. My partner started her officer manager post (on the same wage as the people she was managing, simply out of loyalty to her brothers) while I began optimising the website, writing blogs and anything else I could do to help out.
The three months we were there consisted for the most part, dealing with the simplest issues that should have already been dealt with before a website goes live. The most fundamental things had been left off of the site. The back end of the site was failing to do its job, there was no real CRM, and customers had no flexibility with their accounts. In three months there were FOUR different phone systems and the vital Internet connection was intermittent. Anyway, the entire system was in chaos, from staffing right through to the computers they had installed. We offered many, many suggestions to improve the situation and were ignored – or worse.
Within two weeks of being there I seriously wanted to leave the US and return to the UK. I had a very bad feeling about how the situation was developing, but was talked out of it by my partner’s younger brother (VP of Marketing & Sales) with statements that the owner was a very honourable person – a great guy, fantastic guy, sterling person, and that we would leave the US with compensation for our time, if nothing else.
After weeks carrying on struggling through problem after problem, being assured time and again that the glitches and oversights on the website would be fixed – we asked to speak with the owner. We emailed him several times requesting a meeting that never happened. It felt like thousands of dollars were being flushed down the toilet on this site – and we could not meet with anyone regarding the problems. We were told we were “part of the team” and that upickstorage was going to be “an international company”, but it “wasn’t a priority at the moment”. We were strung along…. To us, we felt we sold everything and came over to the US, and no one was willing to taking on board our concerns.
The whole site was still having problems and we were ensured it would improve by the VP of operations. You guessed it, this never materialized. It was so bad at one point we were up until 12am with the VP of operations, arguing over something he had no idea about – because he was 6 hours away in a different state. Another night we were up till 3am trying to do payroll using a system he had put in place to monitor staffing times and attendance… his system was completely contradicting what we had in front of us regarding peoples attendance…It was becoming a joke.
So, on Thursday 9th August, after dealing with the guy in Austin until midnight, we went into the office… for him to start up again! It was a particularly busy Thursday! We had several interviews for prospective sales people scheduled (they’d had us fire two people in July, then three more employees walked out when they announced pay cuts three weeks before). The VP of Marketing and Sales had left the state for 3 weeks and was in Alabama at that time. For three weeks we had been in the office from 7.30am until after 5pm dealing with the day-to-day running and organizing the remaining staff. Setting the staff up with their daily calls was no easy task since the website had no customer management software, we were making do the best we could. Every morning we would come in and find the guy in Austin had accessed the back end and changed all of our notes and organization of the offers, so the bulk of the morning consisted of figuring out what he had done through the night.

At around 11am the guy in Austin started instant messaging us again, apparently he didn’t feel we had the “same level of commitment” he had. Well, let see… one of us hadn’t been paid a penny in 3 months but still got up and went into the office for 7.30am and worked until 5pm, the other was expected to manage the office on less than half her usual salary, we were trying to support ourselves and three children on one persons wages, which was not even a faction of what they was on before they gave their job in UK – what more could we do to show our “commitment”??
Around noon on Thursday 13th August, we’d had enough. Early mornings, late evenings, struggling financially, no information, no clue what was going on, more harassment from Austin…we emailed the VP of Marketing & Sales and told him we’d do the scheduled interviews, but after that we were calling the whole thing a day. At about 1.30 we walked out. At 2pm I emailed the owners of upickstorage and let them know that it wasn’t working, we had only a few weeks before we had to return to the UK, we told them we understood that they were in NO POSITION to go *worldwide* as planned and we simply needed to be paid for the work that had been done up till then. We attached an invoice to the email for the cost of the database we created while in the UK and the work that I had done while I was in the UK. Since their CPA had already TOLD them that it is perfectly legal and acceptable to pay us by two cheques, we never imagined any problems.
The total of the invoice barely covered what I would have normally been paid had I remained in the UK working for the previous months.
At around 3pm the VP of Marketing and Sales, my partners little brother called us to let us know we were morons. We had no idea how HUGE this business was going to be, we were IDIOTS to walk away now, what the hell is wrong with us sending them an invoice…on and on. Still no information on the business, no communication from anyone else – nothing. We spent the weekend with family, panicking over our future, kicking ourselves for EVER going to the US in the first place, wondering what the hell we would do when we were forced to return to the UK, and didn’t hear a word from upickstorage for three days.
At 5pm on Sunday evening my partners Mother phoned us as we were on our way back to her house. She stated the owners asked if we would go back the following day, we discussed it and decided we had absolutely nothing better to do, as little as she was being paid, it was better than nothing and we couldn’t say no. The owner phoned that Sunday evening to tell us that the guy from Austin would be there on Monday, but he is much less offensive in person than on the Internet or over the phone so we shouldn’t have any problem with him.
Monday morning, Austin guy was supposed to be in the office, he wasn’t. VP of Marketing & Sales was supposed to be there, he wasn’t. Just us and the meager staff we had remaining.
Tuesday morning all hell broke loose. Both owners appeared, VPMS showed up and now a new investor has appeared. The new investor was a really, really nice man and we liked him a lot. He had fantastic plans and looked set to put it all on the right track. Unfortunately none of this was communicated to the staff… For the following three days our employees were questioning everything – questions we could not answer. The investor had people in measuring their offices; he was interviewing people, giving vague pep talks.
And then nothing. For a week there was nothing, it was just work as usual. Monday morning comes around again and employees are coming in and out of our offices asking about rumors and statements made by the VP, they were under the impression the new investor was going to pay them $80,000 a year and thy wanted to know what was happening. We couldn’t TELL them, we didn’t KNOW. We just kept telling them they needed to speak to the VP of Marketing and Sales. He made the statements, he should clarify them.
My Partner has suggested I explain what exactly what it was we were asked to do – what got us involved with upickstorage in the first place. First off, let me explain to the few people who may not know, on a website like upickstorage, a customer enters their ZIP CODE (or Post Code) on to their site hoping to find a few matching storage facilities in their area and then they submit a bid.
So you see, the entire upickstorage website pivots on the ZIP CODE (Post Code) information. With out it – there simply IS NO WEBSITE. Facilities can’t be located by email address for heaven’s sake –but try explaining that to the owners of the site – it’ll be like beating your head against a wall, only slightly less enjoyable!!
My partner’s brothers contacted her and asked for her assistance – this is one of the emails: “I think your good enough on the computer that you could tell us how to get these email and addresses. Please feel free to school us. Please. Help figure this out. We have 2 months until the website goes live! At that point we have to go with what we have. I want thousands in the u s and hundreds in every state. I think this is going to be huge. The key is the database. I’ll call you soon with more info”
The problem he didn’t foresee was that compared to the number of storage facilities there are in the US, VERY FEW have publicized email addresses.
We looked into several options for obtaining a database. Most of them involved incredibly high fees upickstorage wanted to avoid paying. The US is a huge place, 64,000 names, addresses; phone numbers and email addresses (IF even available) do not come cheaply. My partner’s younger brother (VP of Marketing and Sales) had a membership to something called www.referenceusa.com. This website allows you to search for businesses by a large range of criteria and download them 25 names at a time to an excel spreadsheet. It couldn’t be narrowed down well and it also includes other useless information (for us at least) like profit margins, credit rating, executives names, owners names, director names, longitude and latitude locations – lots of worthless info that had to be deleted.
My math isn’t great but 64,000 names, downloading them 25 at a time – I did 2560 downloads over approximately 126 hours, converted them from their format into a useable CSV file. Then when I went to email the whole thing – they requested we break it down… into 50 separate states. Fine we thought and spent another few hours separating and emailing them to them one by one.
So, that was the FIRST bit of work we did for upickstorage and I suppose I SHOULD have been a bit suspicious when the owner went from offering to pay me FOR EACH NAME … to saying he would take care of my visa instead…. Then when the visa fell through, he passively refused to speak with us by ignoring all requests for a meeting…
Just to let you know, part seven of our story is due soon. As you can guest ever post we publish has to be read through by more than a few people, just to keep us all legal and above board. So please bear in mind it takes time to publish these posts… if you have not had chance to read our posts about our journey to the States
These are the events lead to the complete mess we are in now, as written by my partner:
“Two weeks before we walked out of upickstorage, the VP of Marketing and Sales and the two owners called a meeting of all the employees to let them know they were instigating an *exciting* new compensation plan. Employee pay was to be cut by $4 an hour – but they would get $1 for every counter offer they managed to get from a facility. The Monday morning after the meeting three people walked out. It was finally agreed that the change wouldn’t happen until upickstorage had a working website and customer management program, which was said to be *in the works* for weeks and weeks but nothing ever appeared. Needless to say, they hadn’t been excited about THAT change and were concerned when it would be instigated…
The evening of Wednesday the 19th my older brother phoned and said he would meet up with us to discuss the invoice and the work that was put into upickstorage. He said he needed to speak to the other owner and he’d get back to us. We waited for him to call back…he never did.
The entire week employees were coming to me with questions, He was at home ill (May interrupt and explain that I had swine flu) while I was in the office pacifying employees or telling them to speak to the VP of marketing. Then on Thursday the 20th August around noon, I was in the restroom when the VP of Marketing and Sales (my little brother) PHONED me from the office 20 feet away to say that our older brother and his business partner (the owners of upickstorage) wanted to talk to me.
I walked into the back room, my little brother walked out and the other two were sat at the table. My brother began by telling me that the original idea for upickstorage going “international” just wouldn’t work right now so they wouldn’t be able to send the website back to the UK with us. I said I could tell the site was in NO condition to be expanded at all. His partner then said that they had sunk SO MUCH money into the site; they had tried everything and just could not figure out how to make any money out of it. I again said I understood, and told them I thought once they got a working website with the functioning customer management program they would be in a much better position for managing sales etc… and then the money they were sinking into Google ads wouldn’t be such a waste etc… It continued like this for a little while until my brother mentioned us needing to be paid for the work we had done in the UK, and the work that had been since our arrival in the US. He said they couldn’t pay him anything because he didn’t have a Visa. I tried to say that was why they had our Mother (their bookkeeper at their office) talk to the CPA and that they COULD pay him.
But the minute the word “Mom” was out of my mouth…he went MENTAL. He started yelling and not being the type of person to stay and be yelled at, I got up and walked out of the room, went to my office and started packing up my things. He came FLYING out of the back office – still yelling “YEAH, THAT’S RIGHT! PACK UP YOUR STUFF AND GET OUT! I’LL LEAVE A CHEQUE FOR YOU WITH MOM. IT’LL BE ENOUGH TO GET YOU BACK TO SCOTLAND!! TALK TO YOU IN TEN YEARS!!”
Ok part 7 of our upickstorage experience. We are doing this from two different perspectives. One half being mine (his) and the other half my partners (hers). The reason for this is that what happened was so wrong and my view of the event could be a bit different and we were both affected in different ways.
HIS:
My partner called me at our temporary home and said, “I told you that should have come in today, they both (the owners) appeared!” I asked what was said, she explained that they had discussed that the option to take upickstorage was not on the agenda any more, then she suddenly burst into tears (I’d like to note at this point I have only ever seen her cry twice both times due to upickstorage). It was difficult to make out what she was saying due to the sobs. I finally understood that what happened and that her older brother the owner of upickstorage had flown in to a rage and had screamed at my partner.
You must understand by now, that I am very polite and extremely well mannered, very, very few issues make me angry. But after 3 months of being pissed around by people that had no idea how a website should work nor how to be customer focused, that my partner had been verbally abused just enraged me.
I asked my partner to come home and told her that I would meet her. When we finally met up, I asked her again to explain what had happened in detail, she explained said they would not paying for the work I had done whilst in the US, this just fuelled my anger with these people, the cowards had chosen to dump it on my partner instead of speaking to me at all.
I asked my Partner to ask her father to borrow his truck. We headed to her brother’s law office in the next town. On the way there I kept asking her for every bit of detail. She explained that he lost his temper when she had mentioned her mother and the CPA.
We finally arrived at the law office and asked to speak to her older Brother. He came out and said “ Hi” as though nothing had happened between him and my partner an hour earlier. He said he would be 2 seconds and disappeared in to his law partners’ office. They were in there for a while and finally came out and showed us to a boardroom. They asked me to sit down, which I politely refused. They started to explain that they could not pay me, because of my lack of a work visa. I asked them why I had been in their office every day and why had I been optimising their website, doing things for their VP of Operations etc. My partner then again mentioned the meeting we had had with their CPA, and their bookkeeper (their mother).
At this point her brother got up and said he’d bring his mom in and ask her…
IN ALL THE TIME her brothers law partner just sat there staring at us in awkward silence. Finally he and his mother came in. His mother reminded them both that they had requested she meet with the CPA to determine HOW to legally pay me and that she had come back the next day and had explained the process. Both of them sat there and denied any knowledge of it. They then said, “we did not need you, we never needed you nor do we know why you are even here.” I reminded her brother of the conversations we’d had on the phone while I was still in the UK, which again he denied. Both my partner and her mother also reminded them of past conversations… They just sat and denied any conversations ever took place.
I then brought the subject round to the database, Her brother said, “Suzette sent an invoice and we are not paying that much”. I explained that it was up for negotiation, as I had discussed on the phone with him the day before, but he had failed to call back that evening as he said he would. I also reminded him that the amount did not even cover the wages I would normally earn in the UK…
At this point I asked “so you expected me to work for free?” He simply replied “I never said I would pay you.” (It should be noted at this point that I remember discussing my concerns as to how they had treated a telephone contractor they had hired to install one of the many phone systems used over three months in the upicks office, I remember saying to my partner I thought they were very nasty to them). Anyway this “I never said I would pay you” kept being repeated over and over again by my partners older Brother.
I am a bit ashamed to say, turned round and showed him the bird, called him a knob and left… As I was walking out he muttered something under his breath, like a kid cursing their mother. I turned around and asked “Excuse me? I missed that” He replied “You’re REALLY getting nothing now!” Like a little girl falling out with her friends over a bag of sweeties.
He followed us out of the boardroom and through the office to the front office and closed the door behind us. The reason he followed us out is not clear, maybe he thought I was as childish as he is and I would knock down a plant or something… who knows.
Anyway, the day after all of this happened we found out that they had changed the locks at the office. I have to say I was a UK citizen staying in the US for 89 days; I was hardly going to cause any childish problems whilst I was there – even if I was the type of person to do such a thing!
Hers:
So, after my older brother exploded I started packing up my things, phoned my partner, and told him he should have been at the office – that I KNEW something like this would happen while he was working at home. He told me to meet him and I started walking home. When we met up I told him again what had happened and what had been said, that they weren’t sending the website to the UK as planned and that they would not be paying us for anything. He said to borrow my Dad’s truck and we would go and talk to them face to face so he could get the full picture himself.
We drove out to their offices in Madisonville, he asked to see my brother and we waited in the waiting room. A while later they took us through to the boardroom. My partner older brother and his law partner sat down, they asked us to sit, so I sat as far away from them as I could – my partner preferred to stand. He started the conversation by saying “So, can someone tell me what’s going on because no one has spoken to me in weeks.” That is when they told him – again – that the website would not be going to the UK, they were in an “awkward position” because he wasn’t allowed to work in the US and they could not pay him for anything because it would be…illegal. My partner answered, “Well, that’s why you had your mother meet with the CPA, before I even DID any work here to see what was possible. To determine HOW to pay me for the work I’d done in the UK before we got here and also for the work I’d be doing here!” Both of them said they knew nothing about the meeting with the CPA and they would not be paying him. Their stance was that he was basically an idiot for coming to the US with out a visa. My partner answered, “YOU said you were going to take care of the visa in exchange for the database! To be honest with you, when you passed it off to your MOTHER because it was too complicated for you and then by default it ended up BACK on us, I had a feeling it was messed up. But I was only TOLD there was no visa AFTER I LANDED IN THE US!” her brothers law partner said “Well, we told HER (pointing to me) we stopped the process BEFORE you left the UK, you could have not come!” I replied, “It was DAYS before we were to catch the flight! We’d sold everything, lost the flat, bought $5000 worth of plane tickets, we were in ENGLAND at that point saying goodbye to family what the HECK was I supposed to DO?!” She just said that wasn’t THEIR problem.
SO, more to myself than anyone else, I said, “Mom was right, you should have just paid me a bit more and it could have covered BOTH of us.” His law partner heard that and said, “Oh, I told your mother we couldn’t do that… it would be illegal, it would be the same as paying him.” So I replied “You think that I quit my job, left my friends, my home and SOLD MY LIFE to move here to work for YOU for slave wages? You pay me the same thing as the people you have me hiring and firing, stating that I’d “make money“ when YOU make money and I am going to be happy with this?! And Mom said it again just last night so apparently you DIDN’T tell her that.”
It was then that her older brother said he would go and get Mom to come in and straighten the whole thing out….
Mom came in and stood next to my partner. They asked her about paying him for the work we had done… Again, Mom replayed the whole episode, told them she met with the CPA as they had asked her to and they researched it and determined it is PERFECTLY legal for them to pay Him for the work he had done in the UK. Any work he did in the United States could LEGALLY be paid once we had returned to the England. There is a tax treaty between the US and the UK and it would be up to us to declare any earnings. She then reminded his law partner, word for word of their whole involved conversation two months previously… the law partner denied the conversation took place.
Again big Brother told my partner he shouldn’t have left the UK with out a work visa. My partner replied that had he known they would DO something like this he never would have sold everything to GET there, but they were INSISTENT that we hurry! Her brother denied the conversation. We both told him when he phoned us in Scotland he asked when we were coming, we said we have to hand in notice at work, we’d have to sell everything – there was no where to store it all and when did they want us there? Her brother replied “yesterday? Seriously there is a lot to do here. The sooner you get here the better!” Which is what we DID! Again her brother denied the conversation.
Once it was determined that they simply were NOT going to negotiate or even ADMIT to past conversations, my partner said we should leave. I got up and followed him out the door. I never saw the hand gesture my partner admits to, but when we were out the door in the hallway I heard my partner say, “Pardon Me?” And her brother replied “Well, you’re really getting nothing now!” My partner turned to leave, called him a “knob wipe” and we left. All the way out the door both my mother and brother followed us, but all I remember is my mother saying over and over “We’ll make it ok, don’t worry I’ll mortgage my house or something. It’ll be ok.” I couldn’t look at any of them. I was disgusted.
So that was our story. Again, we apologise for the references to the parts – we went through the posts again before publishing, but we didn’t want to spend too much time editing things out – it wouldn’t serve much purpose and it is after all the holidays and we didn’t want to spend the WHOLE two weeks putting all of this back together.

WE moved....

2010-01-03T04:19:00.000-08:00

You will not find our experience in the US on this blog, however we have just published the whole event at our new site... HERE

Wildomar Planning Commission recommends self-storage ban in certain areas | Inland News | PE.com | Southern California News | News for Inland Southern California

2009-12-04T00:59:00.000-08:00

Interest story from Sourth California news: the question is, Is this going to be a growing trend in local communities? Self-storage facilities do not belong where shopping centers could be built, Wildomar planning commissioners said last Wednesday.Wildomar Planning Commission recommends self-storage ban in certain areas | Inland News | PE.com | Southern California News | News for Inland Southern California

Cache Search

2009-12-03T05:28:00.000-08:00

It appears that people are very interested in our old story, which has now been removed. People keep visiting the old story via Google's cache. I'm sure they realize it takes a while for this to update. If people are not aware of this, and are incredibly interested in our story, I have no problem re-publishing. The people accessing our site via the cache know who they are...

Since we are still having an epic struggle on a daily basis and with the approach to Christmas, the feelings of injustice will be growing and getting worse... Everyone involved must understand I have lost eveything and have nothing to lose with the story being on here... So I would suggest you all leave well enough alone, count your blessings and stop going over old ground.

Update on the up and coming website.

2009-12-02T03:58:00.000-08:00

Update on the new website... We encountered a few teething problems, which we reckon will be recified in Januray... (? Don't ask why so long,) I should say the original which we have set up is up and running and looks great on the front end.. It also has plenty of room to hold a number of banner and other ads pages, However, the back end is not the easiest to work with on a daily bases, so due to this we will be transferring to another host in the middle of January...

Win A Black Nintendo Wii With Big Yellow Self Storage This Christmas | UKPRwire

2009-12-01T04:05:00.000-08:00

Oh oh Oh the Christmas cheer has now begun with the Storage industry, If i am honest I seriously wish i could get excited about the Coming holidays, but as we are in no position at the moment it proving difficult... But hay maybe next year will bring us more luck...

Anyway sorry I drifted off there, It looks like Big Yellow storage is giving people the Chance to win a Wii, with their latest promo...

From 1st December right up to Christmas Day, Big Yellow Self Storage has daily stocking filler prizes to be won in their newly launched Facebook application including vouchers for iTunes, Homebase and Love 2 Shop redeemable at dozens of popular stores in the UK including Waterstones, Boots the Chemist & House of Fraser.

Win A Black Ninte ndo Wii With Big Yellow Self Storage This Christmas | UKPRwire

Chambers of secrets | The strange world of self-storage | UK news | The Observer

2009-11-30T03:14:00.000-08:00

I can across this in the paper Guardian,Observer yesterday.. I admit i like this paper, not just for out side the box articles but also for the Job section if i am honest..

Anyway the article goes in to details about what happens behind those steel doors, It appears a growing wave is merging and Storage units are being utilized for other means, not just to store our belongings...

Chambers of secrets | The strange world of self-storage | UK news | The Observer

Viewmag Online Edition

2009-11-28T06:12:00.000-08:00

Sorry folks, I am not letting the blog go, its just been busy setting up the new web site and the Holidays and Now I have my family over for the weekend...

but I have had time to find this interest articale from Veiw Online.. It discusses an apparent secret negotiations between city lawyers, a self-storage facility and the local planning planning committee. The residents group fighting the development proposal say they were not included in the discussions with the proponent and only found out about the possible deal at the last minute.

Viewmag Online Edition

PR-USA.net - Self Storage Finders Joins the CSSA, FSSA and TSSA

2009-11-27T05:43:00.001-08:00

Self Storage Finders, an online self storage directory, today announced it has become a member of the California, Florida and Texas Self Storage Associations.

to read the full article click on the link below:

PR-USA.net - Self Storage Finders Joins the CSSA, FSSA and TSSA

Thanks Giving

2009-11-26T07:08:00.000-08:00

We like to wish all our followers and readers a Happy Holiday..

Inside Self-Storage Releases Factbook 2010

2009-11-25T06:15:00.000-08:00

It that time of year again! You know the time of year when the best of Album come out, as well as the year editions of great books. Well here an interesting one for anyone involved in the Self Storage Business, and for those who have been in the trade for a while will already be aware that Inside Storage has just recently released its 2010 Factbook.

"The Factbook is designed to educate all levels of self-storage owners, managers, developers, investors and others. Published annually in November, its articles are authored by dozens of experts across all industry fields. It's a one-of-a-kind encyclopedia for everything self-storage."

To read more about this annual hit the link

Inside Self-Storage Releases Factbook 2010

Other news: The new and improved website is coming along great and will be released in the not to distant future,

Glitches and Domains,

2009-11-23T08:55:00.000-08:00

No update today as such! I have been busy over the weekend with a new Domain, and I have plans to integrate this blog with my new domain and new website... So please bear with me, as I experiment with the two... You many notice a few glitches, but hopefully nothing serious... But once its all up and running, it will be a new and improved Storage News and Stories website with all the bell and whistles you'd expect..

Anyway I hope you all had a great weekend.

Could Stephen Fry require self storage?

2009-11-22T03:07:00.000-08:00

Interesting post on the the Safestore website, regarding one of my Favorite Comedians, Secretly I have to admit I am a regular follower of his twitter updates, For a number of reason but mainly because of his quick and intelligent wit. Mr Fry is also a huge blogger and has a hugely popular blog .

This article mentions that Stephen maybe looking to buy a property in LA, and mentions one for the reason is that is old comday buddy Hugh Laurie ( For people from the US, House from the TV series House, got to admit I love that show also) who also lives in that neck of the world with his family.

Anyway to read the full article click the link below.

Could Stephen Fry require self storage?

Self-storage units: not just anonymous lock-ups - Times Online

2009-11-21T03:07:00.000-08:00

This articale is from Thetimesonline, I Found it pretty interesting to say the least, it goes in to detail about how The self-storage phenomenon, from it Military beginnings around Army bases in America after the Second World War to how it developed into one of the biggest industry. It is not often you find an article that goes into such detail.

Self-stora ge units: not just anonymous lock-ups - Times Online

No part 7.

2009-11-20T02:28:00.000-08:00

Well it’s Friday. I have been thinking for a long time about where this blog is leading. Like I have mentioned a number of times, it was originally set up to help optimize upickstorage. Nothing more nothing less. To be honest Storage stories are hard to come by and a bit of a difficult subject for an ongoing blog, but as I have proved it can be done.

The Blog received a very nasty comment the other day, the person that wrote this comment has since apologized for it, ( just a note to the person, I thought that was very gentlemen like of you and I appreciated the apology and from my point of view it is forgotten. It took a man to do that)

However the reason the person wrote this comment was partially due to our facebook page. I created the page while in New Orleans expressly to assist upickstorage. I wrote nothing on the page about the whole US episode, because we felt it would have been inappropriate, and the truth be known, if upickstorage had asked for the rights to it, I would have handed it over immediately, but like the rest of the whole situation, no one will speak to us.

I was going to publish part 7, which would have explained about our final day with the company, and how it was stated that everything we had done was unneeded, unnecessary and unwanted and could have been done without us. For this reason alone I felt hurt. The other reason I wanted to publish part 7 was to combat what I felt were lies which have been said. The people involved in this situation know what they offered, know what was discussed and know that they failed on their part.

The whole situation has broken up a family, caused the silliest of arguments, and in my eyes left me in a position I never wanted to be in, which is worrying in the lead up to Christmas. How I can afford any presents for children, when I can’t afford to pay the rent… These things play on my mind.

Which reminds me, a while ago we received fourth hand information that they were looking to take a law suit out against me for this blog, and to be brutally honest - I do not care. How on earth can you sue someone who has nothing? (insert look of disbelief here).

So where do I go from here, well. First thing I am doing, is removing my story… Why? Because the people that matter know the story and the people that did this to us know the story and they are the ones that will answer to God…. I am not a hateful person nor can I normally bear a grudge, but some things cannot and will not be forgotten. I stupidly listened to my partner about trusting family etc, when I have never trusted anyone in my life, and that was a lesson learnt. I am not blaming her, her intentions were good and she has been hurt badly by this whole thing, as well as a few other people…I want to forget about the whole situation and the people involved, I want to try and rebuild my life. Although its not been easy and I cannot see it getting any easier for a long while.

However, I was surprised, to discover my blog appears to be worth something, according to Markoweb.com

So for this reason alone I will not be ending the Blog. I will be removing our story parts and any connection with upickstorage. I intend to continue to publish Storage news and events with the intention of eventually selling this valuable advertising tool to a company who can use it… So hey - if anyone is interested in buying the rights to this blog give us a shout.

I also discovered that the database I developed also appears to worth a fair bit. So if anyone is interested in purchasing over 60.000 names address of US storage companies also contact us. Although the database will be for sale via a different website dedicated to that sort of thing.

So, sorry folks no part 7! I want to forget about the whole upickstorage ordeal. Although I know Christmas will be hard, it is my intention to forget. In my opinion I was screwed and I won’t be so trusting again.

To the family unwittingly entangled in this I am so sorry you have all become involved, but you know what they say blood is thicker than water, you only get one family guys and yours is pretty special, so don’t bicker. Its over, be a family. Please.

Watertown Daily Times | Storage facilities plans in LeRay move forward

2009-11-17T03:27:00.000-08:00

The town Planning Board gave final site plan approval for EVANS MILLS for two self-storage facilities along Route 11

to read the full story click on the link

Watertown Daily Times | Storage facilities plans in LeRay move forward

IWJ - Public Policy - Wage Theft

2009-11-16T08:04:00.000-08:00

interesting website. IWJ - Public Policy - Wage Theft

Enterprising advice at Chester Business School from Big Storage boss - Chester Chronicle

2009-11-15T10:42:00.000-08:00

Inspiring story from the North West of England reported in the chester chronicle Andrew Donaldson, Founder and Partner of Big Storage gave a presentation to Business students at the University of Chester, in which he highlighted the importance of self belief, determination and a positive attitude, Enterprising advice at Chester Business School from Big Storage boss - Chester Chronicle

U-Store-It Facilities to Serve as Toys for Tots Drop-Off Locations in Indianapolis

2009-11-13T11:52:00.000-08:00

I came across another great story today and I thought i would share with you all, I do like that it appears that more and more storage facilities are helping their local communities, According to CNNmoney.com More than 200 U-Store-It self storage locations across the States are making a difference in their local communities by participating in the U.S Marine Corps Reserve Indianapolis Toys for Tots Program this holiday season . U-Store-It Facilities to Serve as Toys for Tots Drop-Off Locations in Indianapolis

Extra Space Storage Inc. Reports Third Quarter 2009 Results

2009-11-11T05:46:00.000-08:00

interesting report from CNN money.com... more signs that the self storage business, is standing tall amongst the rough sea of this years failing economy, Extra Space Storage Inc. Reports Third Quarter 2009 Results

Proactive Investors UK - Lok’nStore FY losses narrow as trading conditions improve, shares up

2009-11-09T05:33:00.000-08:00

Lok’n Store Reported to have called the past year a “year of two halves” with contrasting market conditions in the second and the first half, which declined in the direct aftermath of the incepted economic downturn.

Proactive Investors UK - Lok’nStore FY losses narrow as trading conditions improve, shares up

No Major Update

2009-11-08T15:54:00.000-08:00

I am not doing a Storage update to day... just want to post a video....I like this Song,,, RIP Johnny Cash, you are surely missed man...

Fridays sigh...

2009-11-06T13:10:00.000-08:00

I used to have a fondness for Friday afternoons. It was not that long ago either. I would be working away, glance at the clock every 5 or 10 minutes, waiting for Home time. I loved that feeling, knowing I had worked all week and was looking forward to having a glass of wine with my partner. Don’t get me wrong come Saturday afternoon, I was bored and dreading that Sunday blues I get…

Now however, everyday is the same, day in and day out. Although I should say I used to have a PS3, two large flat screen TVs and a fancy PC to play games on, which helped relieve the boredom. Plus I could also have an occasional glass of wine. Now I am avoiding alcohol for a couple of reason, one being I seriously can’t afford to buy the stuff. I mean I have to ask myself, why spend £5 on a bottle of wine when that could pay a quarter of my fare to see my children. Which by the way I can’t afford again this week. The 2nd reason I don’t like to drink as much, is the fact it makes me sick. I mean really sick… I can be rough for days as I have grown older from just a couple glasses of wine.

Morningstar Joint Venture Acquires Texas Self-Storage Portfolio

2009-11-06T00:50:00.000-08:00

New York, Self Storage Florida, www.upickstorage.com,
self Storage South Dekota, San Diego Self Storage Self Storage Washington Self Storage Los Angeles,

Morningstar Properties Services of Phoenix, in their joint venture with Harrison Street Real Estate of Chicago, have recently purchased a nine-facility self-storage portfolio in Texas.

Inside self storage reports
" The sites, totaling 536,000 square feet and 5,300 units, are in Austin, Dallas, Houston, Plano and San Antonio. With this purchase, the joint venture now owns 16 self-storage properties in the state. The stores will be re- branded as Morningstar Mini-Storage and managed by 180 Management Services LLC."

Morningstar Joint Venture Acquires Texas Self-Storage Portfolio

Thank you

2009-11-05T03:59:00.000-08:00

Just a quick Thank you.

Gretna Outlaws Sorage Boxes - NOLA.com

2009-11-03T16:04:00.000-08:00

Local Louisiana storage news...

The consequences of Katrina continue. Using makeshift storage containers is no longer acceptable in the Gretna area.

Gretna outlaws storage boxes - NOLA.com

photo from mudbugselfstorage.com Gretna, La.

Wage-theft reports on the rise | North America United States from AllBusiness.com

2009-11-03T01:35:00.000-08:00

I have previous mentioned wage theift, but i keep coming across these articles which are interesting to say the least... this one discusses the raise in the issue in the last 3 years "Immigrants, both legal and illegal, also are frequent victims of wage theft because disreputable employers figure they are less likely to complain, especially if they speak little English or are here illegally. All workers, including illegal immigrants, are entitled under the law to be paid for the work they do."

Wage-theft reports on the rise | North America United States from AllBusiness.com

Update, this article appears to be no long on the Allbusiness site.... so here is different link on the same subject just a different story this time from Immigration Chronicles. To view the story on there site click here

It’s Official: Bands to Be Banned at Sumter Self Storage

2009-11-02T13:52:00.000-08:00

Sorry not feeling too great, bit of the old man flu, I think. Anyway came acorss an interest article for any rock fans out there

It’s Official: Bands to Be Banned at Sumter Self Storage

Homeowners 'may require self storage to accommodate lodgers'

2009-11-01T03:20:00.001-08:00

Well, as you will all be aware, things have been pretty tight for us since June... It appears everyone is feeling the pinch... I came across an interesting article from Safe Store.. I realize it is a British article, but I get the feeling that it maybe of interest to others "It seems that homeowners across the UK may be placing some of their belongings into storage in order to make room for lodgers.

Research published earlier this week by Halifax revealed that the number of homeowners choosing to rent out their spare rooms is on the rise."

Figures released by the organisation show that lodger numbers in Britain have risen by 23 per cent since 2006.Homeowners 'may require self storage to accommodate lodgers'

Posted using ShareThis

Oh we have not forgot our next installment of our adventure to the States, we are just ironing a few things out.

A-1 Self Storage Supports the Challenged Athletes Foundation

2009-10-31T06:14:00.000-07:00

Feel good Saturday. A-1 Self Storage, made a comment on twitter and announced today their support for the Challenged Athletes Foundation, helping fund grants for more than 4,000 physically challenged athletes. A1 Storage provides self storage in San Diego, CA,

the full story can be followed here, but it is great to see people giving back, A-1 Self Storage Supports the Challenged Athletes Foundation

Webinar Offers Tips to Help Self-Storage Businesses Improve Telephone Sales - PR.com

2009-10-30T03:54:00.000-07:00

If any of you self storage owners are keen to improve you telephone sales, this may be of interest to you "On November 4, 2009, veteran self-storage management professional Tom Litton will present the free webinar "Maximizing Telephone Sales":Webinar Offers Tips to Help Self-Storage Businesses Improve Telephone Sales - PR.com

Freedom of speech

2009-10-29T12:11:00.000-07:00

Freedom of speech is the foundation of a functioning democracy, and Internet bullies shouldn't use the law to stifle legitimate free expression

HFF Closes Sale of Nine-Property Texas Self Storage Portfolio | Reuters

2009-10-28T00:55:00.000-07:00

I found an Interesting story from Reuters, regarding self storage portfolio located in Austin, Dallas, Houston and San Antonio, Texas.
HFF Closes Sale of Nine-Property Texas Self Storage Portfolio | Reuters

Dont forgot you can follow our adventures with Upickstorage. And how they refused to pay for their database which their site uses... Click here for the full story

Texas Self Storage Association

2009-10-27T05:47:00.000-07:00

Texas Self Storage Association, upickstorage.com
Just a reminder that he Texas Self Storage Association is currently running its annual conference which was established in 1986 as a non-profit trade association dedicated to enhancing the quality of the self-storage industry in Texas. The Association provides opportunities for member to increase their knowledge of the self-storage industry through education, research, discussion and exchange of information.

why not take a moment a read how upickstorage refused to pay me for the database that thay had me build for them.. click here

Funny comments

2009-10-26T09:36:00.000-07:00

Well yesterday, we received a comment which suggested that my Partner has mental health problems. Which I can state she does not(either that or she hides it bloody well and after being screwed over by her family I am sure those signs would begin to appear). The IP address has been noted and passed to our legal team. Can I remind people that we are, and have all the way through these blogs stayed on the right side of the law. Libel is serious, anything that is defamatory or that maliciously or damagingly misrepresents anyone will be deleted from these pages.

weekend of weird emails.

2009-10-26T04:52:00.000-07:00

I received a few interesting emails this weekend regarding various subjects...

But one particularity news letter SitePro News , which I get regularly, caught my attention. It went in to detail about how blog can help your business.

if your business website doesn't have a blog, get one. A blog, if done right, can act as a direct and indirect mechanism that brings large amounts of qualified visitors to your site, many of whom may become customers.

Quick update and Autumn walks

2009-10-24T01:45:00.000-07:00

New York,Publicstorage, Self Storage Florida self Storage South Dekota, San Diego Self Storage Self Storage Washington Self Storage Los Ange
Just a just a quick Blog today... I have my children this weekend( which is fantastic) so i am making the most of the time we get together, I plan to take a walk in the local park, Eat treacle toffee, and kick up some leafs... all the normal stuff you do in Autumn..

Looking at the Storage news front, there is couple of interesting storages news stories floating around the internet.

1/ Bermuda Public Storage will soon open in the budding Bermuda market. The 50000-square-foot self-storage., Click here for full story.

2/Fire officials said 6 units at the self storage center were set on fire. read full story here

It would be great if you could check out some of the ads on this page.

we can also be followed on Twitter and facebook

The Texas Self Storage Association is about to hosts its annual convention and trade show in

2009-10-23T02:10:00.000-07:00

The Texas Self Storage Association is about to hosts its annual convention and trade show in The Woodlands, On Sunday, October 25 till Wednesday, October 28, 2009. New York, Braud and Gallagher,,Publicstorage, Self Storage Florida, www.upickstorage.com,
self Storage South Dekota, San Diego Self Storage Self Storage Washington Self Storage
It will featuring a wide range of products and services from the self-storage industry and is open to the public on Tuesday, October 27.

The event kicks off with a charity Texas Hold ‘Em Poker Tournament with the proceeds benefiting the Shriners Childrens Burn Hospital in Galveston. Monday, October 26, will also feature educational sessions ranging from marketing a self-storage facility, to applying solar power to self storage. Sessions offer topics of interest to potential investors and developers, new owners and managers and topics to appeal to the seasoned self-storage professional as well.

Those interested in attending can register online at www.txssa.org or by calling 888-259-4902.

The Texas Self Storage Association was established in 1986 and is a non-profit trade association dedicated to enhancing the quality of the self-storage industry in Texas. The Association provides opportunities for member to increase their knowledge.

Don't forget you can follow our story, on how we built upickstorage's database and was not paid. Click here

We can also be followed on facebook & twitter

A better way for web designers to find clients and for clients to find web designers

2009-10-22T02:32:00.000-07:00

One of the issues I use to hear time and time again, is where can we find a web designer, so i figured why not post this here.. check it out....

Launch: Haystack - a better way for web designers to find clients and for clients to find web designers

A Huge THANK YOU.

2009-10-20T07:06:00.000-07:00

New York,,Publicstorage, Self Storage Florida, www.upickstorage.com,
self Storage South Dekota, San Diego Self Storage Self Storage Washington Self Storage Los Angeles,
Just a quick Blog today... It has been a busy day with Job interviews and preparing for other one to come.

It has been brought to my attentions that we have had well over 4000 visitors, the biggest majority visiting our blog with in the last month. Again I am astonished at the supportive emails we have received. I would like to thank you all so much. I would like to especially thank the good people at Care2.

If you have not had chance to read how upickstorage refused to pay me for my work. click here

If your going though Hell Keep going

2009-10-19T06:37:00.000-07:00

New York,,,Publicstorage, Self Storage Florida, www.upickstorage.com,
self Storage South Dekota, San Diego Self Storage Self Storage Washington Self Storage Los Angeles,
Since we arrived back in the UK over a month ago its been mixed bag of experiences. First of all there was the Car rental nightmare. 18hr flight, arrived in Manchester, with the expectation that we would have a car ready, Oh how wrong we were, the company we ordered with failed to accept our credit card because it was from the US. 4 hours later we got one but it was a manual, which my partner can’t drive. Ahhhhh, so we wait a further 2 hours and finally got an automatic tank…

Then the next 2 days, we were heavily jet lagged and needed to find suitable accommodation. The plan was, that we had already made the huge leap in going to the US, with the hope we can open door for our children, or better still an opportunity to live closer to them once upickstorage was up and running. So we held on to that hope and opted to find accommodation in the North West of England. Again, this was not a simple as we first envisaged. We finally found a small one bed flat about forty miles away. Close to the Children and close to Manchester City centre which should if all works out, open doors for employment. We did all this with the last of our savings from selling everything before we took the plunge to the US.

On the employment side of things it has been horrendous. I have registered with every agency in the North West area, particularly, ones which deal with my type of employment. Which if I am honest is pretty specialized. I have also applied for so many jobs its untrue, some times up to 20 applications in one day. Its kinds of demoralizing when you do not hear back from them or worse it turns out to be another agency who also wants you their books.

So the last month has not been great. With no money, and living in a village we have no idea about or even friendly with. My Partner and I tend to be on the internet 24/7 at the moment, composing blogs, social networking or looking for work. Seeing my children has been a limited affair due to the fact we can’t avoid the train fares.

My future Plans are to find A JOB. Pass my driving test. Find more suitable accommodation (slightly bigger) have a proper routine to see my children. I also need to prove to my Partner than I am worth all this, she has put up with so much, she has been there by my side thought out all of this and she has lost her brothers because of their actions. And I love her so so much.

Storage auctions yield mix of treasure

2009-10-19T03:26:00.001-07:00

New York,,Publicstorage, Self Storage Florida, www.upickstorage.com,
self Storage South Dekota, San Diego Self Storage Self Storage Washington Self Storage Los Angeles,
I found a really interesting article about Storage Auction over at columbian.com

the whole post got me seriously wanting to attend one of these,I can imagine there are heaps of valuable goods to be bought on the cheap. ( If your curious to know what an Storage Auction is head here)

Anyway the article is about 72-year-old Wagner and her husband, who both appear to be a pro in the Storage auction business, to read the story head here

Storage auctions yield mix of treasure & junk - Columbian.com

Oh and don't forget to read our story on how upickstorage failed to pay me for the database which there website is built on... Click Here

Public Storage

2009-10-18T05:05:00.000-07:00

New York, ,,Publicstorage, Self Storage Florida, www.upickstorage.com,
self Storage South Dekota, San Diego Self Storage Self Storage Washington Self Storage Los Angeles,
There are very few Self Storage news Items around this weekend, I don’t know why, but its low on the ground. Sorry Guys,.There was one slightly interesting story about Public Storage which announced on Thursday that it intends to release its third quarter 2009 earnings results on Thursday, November 5, 2009. Kind of looking forward to that because the company has a had interests in 2,010 self-storage facilities located in 38 states with approximately 127 million net rentable square feet in the United States and 185 storage facilities located in seven Western European nations with approximately ten million net rentable square feet.

On a personal note the reason I am still posting Self storage news and events is to keep this blog on topic, which is Self Storage News and Events, However it is also turned into an personal blog about how upickstorage did not pay me for the work I did for them. Their whole website is built on a database which I put together, If you’re interested in reading about this people and their company Click Here

Autumn with no funds.

2009-10-17T05:38:00.000-07:00

New York, Self Storage Florida, www.upickstorage.com,
self Storage South Dekota, San Diego Self Storage Self Storage Washington Self Storage Los Angeles,
A lovely autumn Saturday, I should be down the Park with the children enjoying the weather and the company. Instead, I am penniless and bored, I can’t avoid to travel the messily 40 miles on the train to collect them. Why? Because Upickstorage refused to pay me.

On the Plus side our blogs are really becoming quite popular and we have received so interesting emails from a few storage companies… Thanks for the support guys and if you want to become a sponsor of these blogs give us a shout, we would be honored….

Anyway I have been addicted to Blip the last couple of days and I came across an old favorite… so I figured the words are so fitting to this hideous situation. This is another shout out, ( ok warning the tune is very heavy and there is a lot of language which may offend..)

Burglars target Tulsa storage units | KJRH.com

2009-10-16T03:12:00.001-07:00

New York, Self Storage Florida, www.upickstorage.com,
self Storage South Dekota, San Diego Self Storage Self Storage Washington Self Storage Los Angeles,
Surveillance is underway at self storage unit companies across the city, as Tulsa police burglary detectives work to catch thieves who have broken into 10 businesses in recent three weeks.

The crooks have stolen well over $100,000 in property so far.

It's been a few days since they struck the last business. Considering how busy this burglary ring has been, police believe the crooks are actively looking for new targets.

In just three weeks time, around 100 mini-storage units have been burglarized across Tulsa. Sergeant Brandon Watkins heads TPD's Burglary Unit.

Burglars target Tulsa storage units | KJRH.com

My its difficult sometime

2009-10-14T05:55:00.000-07:00

things have been extremely difficult. First off, trying to file for unemployment has been a nightmare. 5 weeks after claiming we get a letter saying the man say yes…. And we are entitled to next to nothing…. Next was benefit for housing… It took us so long to find accommodation which was fairly central to the children. We thought we found perfect accommodation in a town about forty miles away from them. Thinking that’s not too bad? Boy was I wrong. Today I discover, that the government will only pay a percentage of the rent… the rest has to come from a benefit cheque which would barely keep a rabbit in food…..

There were a few highlights of the day. One being the woman at the housing… It was funny that she started waving her hands around like a gibbon when I unintentionally swore. What I actually said was “I can’t believe all this hassle because I went to the US for a job that Fucked me around”. Boy these people need to toughen up. People use to swear at me all the time.

The next was an email received asking me to remove my comment from Facebook , because they found it offensive…. I have to say, PLEASE, you find it offensive, WTF?? Your family has screwed me and you want me to sit back and consider peoples feelings?? REALLY? feeling like nothing else can go wrong. The fact is, we have been saying that since June 11 2009… I am normally such a tryer, I never give up on something just because it’s difficult. Whether that is me being pig headed or stubborn I am unsure, but the fact remains I do not quit.

Anyway Part 6 is due soon, however it is my Partner who is composing this one, due to the fact it that is based at a critical point where the upickstorage owner has some form of fit at her.

Wordpress Storage News and Events

2009-10-14T05:40:00.000-07:00

We can now be followed on are now on Wordpress...... click the logo to view

Thank You

2009-10-14T01:15:00.000-07:00

New York, Braud and Gallagher, Self Storage Florida, www.upickstorage.com, www.upickstorage.info, www.upickstorage.co.uk, www.upickstorage.com.uk
Thanks again Guys for all your emails of Support.... I am realizing these are in episodes, but there is a very valid reason for this..

The reason I am publishing these blogs, IS BECAUSE I FEEL THESE PEOPLE LIED AND BETRAYED my partner, my children and Me... I want the world to know this. No other reason. It helps me vent my disgust at them.. plus they have to remember I optimized their site using no money, I can optimize my own site with out money too.

I laughed

2009-10-12T11:50:00.000-07:00

read our experience of working with upickstorage.com by clicking here

Canadian self-storage art work.

2009-10-11T06:17:00.000-07:00

Article from inside Self Storage New York, Self Storage Florida, www.upickstorage.com, www.upickstorage.info, www.upickstorage.co.uk, www.upickstorage.com.uk

Renowned artist Bill Maximick has produce an elaborate painting covering 1,700 square feet of Driftwood Self Storage in Courtenay, British Columbia.

The painting, commissioned 18 months ago by Canadian self-storage owner Cliff Piercy, stretches 145 feet long and 12 feet high.

Maximick also worked self-storage into the painting, adding four open storage doors and themed unit contents.

take a few minutes to read our story, how we returned to the UK homeless after assist upickstorage.com with the set up of their business.

Wage theft

2009-10-10T03:39:00.000-07:00

Interesting article on wage theft from wink news.com
New York, Self Storage Florida, www.upickstorage.com, www.upickstorage.info, www.upickstorage.co.uk, www.upickstorage.com.uk

You worked for weeks expecting a paycheck--but your employer never delivered.

It's called wage theft. It's an increasing problem in our poor economy.

Maybe your employer went out of business, or maybe they just never gave you your final paycheck.

Either way, under state and federal law, they still have to pay you for the time you worked.

"You do hard work and honest work and you deserve honest pay," said Nick Chittenden.

He spent weeks working on a housing development in Naples.

"We call up Friday afternoon to meet with boss. He says we'll meet Saturday. Saturday turned to Tuesday to next Friday and so on," said Nick.

He and the rest of his crew never received their pay.

"It's not just us. It's happened to so many groups. They just flip contractors," said Chittenden.

"When you're hired by an employer to do a job, you have to understand that that employer has to pay you for the time you are working for them," said attorney Carmen Dellutri

to read the full article head here

And read our experience here

$43 per square foot to Homestead US 1 Self Storage.

2009-10-09T06:51:00.000-07:00

News from Costar group, reports that American National Self Storage Inc. sold its self-storage facility and business at 701 S Homestead Blvd. in Homestead, FL, for $1.75 million, or $43 per square foot to Homestead US 1 Self Storage.

The 41,115-square-foot building was built in 1986 and renovated in 1993. The new owner purchased the property and the business as an investment and plans to renovate the building to increase occupancy.

Follow us on Twitter

2009-10-04T12:34:00.000-07:00

Follow our updates on Twitter, bear with us though because we are novices at the whole twitter updated.Self Storage San Diego, Self Storage New York,Self Storage Florida, www.upickstorage.com, www.upickstorage.info, www.upickstorage.co.uk, www.upickstorage.com.uk

Luxury Self-Storage Facility Opens in St. Petersburg, Fla.

2009-10-02T05:49:00.001-07:00

Luxury Self-Storage Facility Opens in St. Petersburg, Fla.

Posted using ShareThis www.upickstorage.com. www.upickstorage.info. www.upickstorage.co.uk. www.upickstorage.com.uk. Self storage

California, San Diego, New York, Storage, Virginia, Florida, York, Washington, Dallas,

Check out our story
Part 1 Here
Part 2 Here
Part 3 Here

BBC NEWS | Business | Online advertising 'overtakes TV'

2009-09-30T09:58:00.001-07:00

Interesting story from the BBC...stating that online advertising spending in the UK has overtaken television expenditure for the first time, a report has said.

Online spending grew 4.6% to Â£1.752bn in the first half of 2009, while TV spending shrank 16.1% to Â£1.639bn.

BBC NEWS | Business | Online advertising 'overtakes TV'

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Annual winter coat drive collecting for needy | recordonline.com

2009-09-30T01:59:00.001-07:00

Annual winter coat drive collecting for needy | recordonline.com

Posted using ShareThis

Self Storage San Diego, Self Storage New York,,Self Storage Florida,

SSS Sovran Self Storage Up 15.3% Since SmarTrend's Buy Recommendation

2009-09-29T02:25:00.001-07:00

SSS Sovran Self Storage Up 15.3% Since SmarTrend's Buy Recommendation

Shared via AddThis

Please take a second to check some of the ads out

Self Storage Association Members are Pro-active with Homeland Security & Local Police to Thwart Terrorism

2009-09-29T02:24:00.000-07:00

Self Storage Association Members are Pro-active with Homeland Security & Local Police to Thwart Terrorism

U-Store-It Offers Free Self-Storage in Atlanta to Flood Victims

2009-09-25T03:53:00.000-07:00

U-Store-It Offers Free Self-Storage in Atlanta to Flood Victims
— U-Store-It Trust's (NYSE: YSI) Atlanta self-storage facilities will
offer one month rent free storage now through October 31, 2009 for victims
of the recent Atlanta floods. U-Store-It has 9 locations in the Atlanta,
Georgia region for customers who are in need of extra storage
space as a result of damage to their homes.

Check out our story about our adventures in the US with upickstorage.com, and how we came back with nothing click here to check out our story

Please also take a moment to check some of the ads.

Employees to be extra vigilant

2009-09-23T03:27:00.000-07:00

I thought I would share a interesting story from the Associated press site. Apparently Police are advising Self Storage owners and they employees to be extra vigilant for any possible bomb-making at self-storage facilities. This has arisen after a investigators probe a possible al-Qaida bomb plot in New York and Denver.

Don't worry guys the next installment of our story is still coming.

Self-Storage World Expo

2009-09-19T10:13:00.000-07:00

EXPO NEWS from inside Self Storage

Roundtable Program Finalized for Inside Self-Storage World Expo in D.C. Discussion program 5-8, has been finalized, focusing on 20 hot topics within the self-storage industry. Which will allow insiders to answer questions and converse in a meangingful way. Topics to include

* Using the Internet to Reach More Customers ... The Cost Effective Way
* Traditional vs. New-Wave Marketing: Promoting Self-Storage Today
* Common Mistakes in Self-Storage Development (and How to Avoid Them)
* Self-Storage Collections: Getting Tenants to Pay You in Tight Times
* How Much Is Your Facility Worth? Insight to Self-Storage Valuation
* Self-Storage Financing: New Construction Loans
* Self-Service in Self-Storage: Exploring Options
* The Self-Storage Office Makeover

curiosity

2009-09-13T23:36:00.000-07:00

A company that had posted an increase in revenue in 2009. And although the increase was very modest, such achievements these days command curiosity. The company was a Surrey-based self storage specialist – Big Yellow PLC (BYG). The London-listed, £481m-Cap provides self-storage facilities to domestic and business customers around the country, with particular emphasis on London (69% of stores are within the M25).

The 273 employees of the company labour on 54 sites renting out storage rooms ranging in size from 10 to 500 sq ft (92% of these are freehold). Big Yellow has another sixteen stores in its pipeline. A typical store would be around 60,000 sq ft, with average room rented being 60 sq ft bringing in some £27 per sq ft per year. To complement the storage revenue the company offers packing materials as well as insurance to its customers (around £8m in revenue in 2009

Editor of Mobile Self-Storage Magazine named

2009-09-07T16:16:00.000-07:00

MiniCo Publishing. A division of MiniCo, Inc. Publishes the Mini-Storage Messenger, the leading monthly trade magazine covering the world self-storage industry. Other publications include Self-Storage Now!, Mobile Self-Storage Magazine, RV & Boat Storage Today,Self‑Storage Canada, Self-Storage Almanac,Self-Storage Development Handbook and the Self‑Storage Buyer’s Guide. phew thats some list.

According to reports over at PR.com, Erica Shatzer has been named Editor of the company’s "Mobile Self-Storage Magazine" and will be responsible for managing the publication’s editorial direction and content as well as editing and writing features and columns. She also serves as the editor of the quarterly "Self-Storage Now!" magazine and associate editor for MiniCo’s other publications including the "Mini-Storage Messenger" and "Self-Storage Almanac."

Ms. Shatzer joined MiniCo Publishing in October 2007. Her previous experience includes positions as Marketing Professional for State College, Pa.-based AccuWeather, Inc., and Marketing Manager for Clyde Peeling’s Reptiland of Allenwood, Pa. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism from Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania.

Self Storage assist with chartiy drive

2009-09-04T08:56:00.000-07:00

Good news Friday, its nice to hear story's from the industry that are about given. A press release from Houston stated that for the second year in a row, Amazing Spacing Storage Centers of Houston had joined with the Texas Self Storage Association (TSSA) to raise funds for Shriners Hospitals for Children located in Galveston. The statewide “Make a Difference” campaign encourages area residents to support the financial needs of the hospital, which suffered significant damage during Hurricane Ike in 2008 and is in the process of rebuilding. Additionally, donations are needed for the hospital’s endowment fund, which ensures that every child receives the care he or she needs, regardless of economic standing.

The TSSA has supported the work of the Shriners Children’s Hospital for the past seven years. In 2008, donations raised by the organization reached $197,000, and the TSSA hopes to raise even more this year. Donations to the TSSA “Make a Difference” campaign will be accepted at all three Amazing Spaces Storage Centers until October 8, 2009.

A-American Self Storage of California is offering 30 free days of self-storage for people in danager of losing their homes to the wildfires

2009-09-03T07:49:00.000-07:00

ISS has reported that A-American Self Storage of California is offering 30 free days of self-storage and free use of its moving truck to people in danger of losing their homes to the wildfires raging through Los Angeles County.

“The catastrophic effect of these wildfires is being felt, as they get closer to home,” said Craig Olson, president. “We want to do our part to make sure that irreplaceable items are not lost in the devastation. We're encouraging everyone to follow evacuation orders and we are opening up our doors for any valuable goods they may want to take with them for temporary safe keeping.

People in need of evacuating their homes due to the wildfires should call 1-800-499-FLAG (3524). Trucks are subject to availability and will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis.

state-of-the-art self storage property in Keaau

2009-09-02T09:22:00.000-07:00

Local developers have just completed a modern state-of-the-art self storage property in Keaau at the Shipman Center.

The project includes approximately a massive 70,000 square feet of rentable storage space, as well as commercial storage spaces.

The developers have ensured the units are safe and convenient such as individual door alarms, climate controlled spaces, business center, easy access, free Wi-Fi, packing supplies and digital surveillance system.

kidnapped and taken to a mini storage unit

2009-09-01T07:36:00.000-07:00

In 1977 Phillip Garrido pleaded guilty to the kidnapping and rape of Katherine Callaway...who has publicly identified herself as his victim.

Callaway was kidnapped in South Lake Tahoe and taken to a mini storage unit which then stood in the 3000 block of Mill Street in Reno. She later told the Washoe County Grand Jury while driving Garrido talked about Jesus a lot, said he was married and he was doing this because of a "sexual urge...a fantasy....and that he had done in twice before."

Investigators say the storage unit was outfitted with a bed, a movie projector, pornography, sexual devices, drugs and stage lights. He lived a few blocks away. "It was set up for this specific purpose,: says Michael Malloy, the then Deputy District Attorney assigned to the case.

Callaway says Garrido sexually assaulted her repeatedly over a 5 to 6 hour period that only ended when an alert Reno policeman decided to check why a light was on in the unit.

Self storage Quartley expectation

2009-08-31T10:08:00.000-07:00

Self-storage professionals in the United States and Canada are being invited to participate in a survey. This survey should records next-quarter expectations in the critical areas of sales, profits, hiring, expenditures, industry economic outlook, and national economic outlook. If your a Self‑storage professionals, visit www.selfstorageconfidenceindex.com to participate in the survey and review results from previous quarters. this closes on 9/11/09

Friday changes

2009-08-28T09:40:00.000-07:00

Ok... You may have noticed that the title has change. The fact remains that this blog is about self storage and the self storage business.

I am seriously looking forward to returning to the north west of England next week. Its home and I am proud of it...

mini-storage drug bust

2009-08-27T12:50:00.000-07:00

Story from Whizz

A Muskingum County Sheriff made a drug bust at a mini-storage.

The Sheriff says his deputies; along with the Central Ohio Drug Enforcement Task Force the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency seized 6 to 8 pounds of processed marijuana, marijuana seeds, botanical chemicals and an array of grow lights, power supply units and blower fans.

Officers also recovered over 14,300 dollars.

It is reported that one person is in custody.

Snake in the Storage

2009-08-26T20:53:00.000-07:00

News from Glenwood Springs Post independent reported- Owners of a south Glenwood self-storage facility emptied several units Tuesday morning looking for what may have been an escaped pet python.

However, the snake that one of the Glenwood Self Storage Center unit renters said he found when he opened his unit was no longer there when the city's animal control officer arrived.

“We had a guy come in about 7 [a.m.] who said he opened his storage unit, and the snake was laying there on some boxes,” said Jim Hawkins, who owns the self-storage facility at 3410 S. Glen Ave. with his wife, Ingrid.

“He described it to the animal control officer, and she said it sounded like it could be a python,” Hawkins said. “We emptied three storage units looking for it, but there were no signs of it at all. So, I don't know what we've got.”

Hawkins said the facility does not allow pets to be kept in storage units, and none of the tenants who were contacted owned up to keeping a python.

Size matters in self storage

2009-08-25T06:35:00.000-07:00

You all know there are a number of different types of self-storage units available out there in the big bad world, But in order to get value for money you need to ensure that you really need to consider your actual needs and the type of goods that you are storing. One of the most common mistake made by people is that they assume the typical “bigger is always better”. This tends to lead to people signing up for a storage space, thinking that they are getting a x amount of space for x number of dollars. However, the grim reality is that unless you actually physically use that space, then you are simply wasting your money. so be Wary of this, for a a rough guild click here

Police in Detroit Raid Storage Locker

2009-08-24T06:48:00.000-07:00

Detnews from Detroit reported that Police raided 14 storage lockers belonging to the 56-year-old man in whose Dearborn home authorities found 151 dead Chihuahuas and more than 100 live dogs last month. The search of the lockers at the Secured Self Storage facility on Gulley in Dearborn Heights yielded more than 100 televisions, at least four lawnmowers, humidifiers, about 100 obsolete computers and 8-track tape machines, but no remains of animals, said James Schmier, a Birmingham criminal attorney representing James Lang.

Dearborn police secured search warrants before the raid, which took about four and a half hours. The storage units ranged from the larger 8 foot-by-8 foot units to smaller units about 3 feet by 6 feet, Schmier said.

Wayne County prosecutors are weighing possible charges against Lang. He could face animal cruelty charges for keeping 151 dead animals in refrigerators and freezers in his home and for letting the living animals burrow through the waste and filth accumulated.

The Self Storage Association will move into a new home next month

2009-08-21T06:50:00.000-07:00

The Self Storage Association will move into a new home next month in Alexandria, Va. Just across from their old one. The non-profit organization signed a 5year contract of the office space.

Indianapolis-based Duke Realty owns both buildings and represented itself in the transaction. Nate Crowe and Mike Norris of Scheer Partners Inc. represented the SSA.

A classic car new storage home

2009-08-20T06:39:00.000-07:00

Interest Story has appeared from California area. Time-standard reported that a 1950 ford patrol car will soon be able to drive into a new home after a local storage business donated space for the Fortuna Police Department.

Four Star Mini Storage in Fortuna offered a 10-foot by 20-foot storage space to the Fortuna Police Department last week to house the restored 1950 Ford, which has been painted and rigged to look like a 1950s patrol car. FPD uses the car for special events and parades but its current storage situation was causing it to deteriorate, Fortuna Police Chief Kris Kitna said.

The classic car is currently covered in tarps under a small, open car shelter kept near the city's animal shelter, collecting a layer of dust and cobwebs.

But before the big move, “We have to get it running first,” Kitna said. Before storage became a problem, the vehicle's clutch was malfunctioning. The Fortuna city mechanic will repair it so an officer can drive it over to the storage facility.

Police officers donated their off-time to restore the car and completed the work about eight years ago.

”They put a lot of time and effort into that car,” Kitna said.

One of those officers was Kevin Stonebarger, who now works for the Arcata Police Department. Stonebarger said it took him and fellow restorer Cliff Chapman, who now works for the Roseville Police Department, about two years to complete the project.

”Everything on the car is basically new ...,” he said. “We rebuilt the whole
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thing.”

Four Star Mini Storage owners Jim and Sharon Redd heard about the department's need for storage space and realized they had a vacant space suited for the vehicle, Sharon Redd said.

”We're just trying to help out the community,” Redd said. "

Self Storage donate to AIDS $250.000

2009-08-19T06:43:00.000-07:00

A San Diego self-storage operator has donated $250,000 to programs that provide relief and prevention for HIV and AIDS worldwide.

A-1 Self Storage has 17 facilities in the greater San Diego area and more than 40 locations across California. It is division of the Caster Cos., which specializes in the acquisition, development and management of self-storage and other commercial property. A family-owned business, its portfolio includes more than 4 million square feet of real estate.

Refund deadline for storage unit in South Dekota

2009-08-18T06:05:00.000-07:00

South Dakota Department of Revenue and Regulation has set out reminders to mini storage businesses and their customers that the deadline is fast approaching to file for refunds on their sales taxes paid for mini storage.

Under a law passed in 2009. owners of mini-storage and self-storage businesses the area have until the 1st of October to apply for a refund on sales taxes they paid to the state.

South Dakota Supreme Court ruled that gross receipts from mini-storage and self-storage units are no longer subject to the local sales tax.

2009-08-17T08:28:00.000-07:00

Hay sorry its been a while since our last post. Lots of changes and lots of coming and going at this end.

A new high-tech self-storage facility recently opened in the Chandler, Ariz. C3 Modern Storage―the Cs stand for “clean, cool and convenient”―offers upscale architecture, This place appears very high tech, it has a wine vault secured by a retinal scanner, gun-storage lockers, safety-deposit boxes, all individual unit have alarms, a conference center, a copier, Internet access, and an entertainment center complete with a flat-screen TV and videogame console. The facility is managed by Judy and Greg Verkuilen.

this place has four-level, 114,000-square-foot facility was the idea of Phoenix-based Vivo Development Partners.

Developers turn to Storage

2009-08-12T07:03:00.000-07:00

Another interesting story from Inside Self Storage.

Developers struggling to find successful projects to build in the Memphis, Tenn., area have turned to self-storage facilities and apartment complexes. In recent months, two large storage facilities and have been proposed in Shelby County. Developers site the mortgage and foreclosure crisis as having killed demand for residential building.

The Memphis City Council recently approved the Germantown Storage Planned Development, owned by Jack Johnson. In addition, the Land Use Control Board endorsed a self-storage project as part of the Cordova Ridge Planned Development.

Wesley Ashworth, vice president of Prime Development Group, said his company has not done a residential development in almost two years. He is working with Johnson on the Germantown project, which will have feature 340 interior units and 115 outdoor spaces.

Storage Loin

2009-08-11T06:18:00.000-07:00

News from Fox, Reported a Colorado wildlife officers captured a mountain lion in an east Denver storage shed over the weekend.

They tranquilized the big cat, which was first spotted by a man who called the Arapahoe County Sheriff's Department.

The man told the Arapahoe County Sheriff's Department he saw the lion run into a storage shed Sunday morning in a location about six miles south of Denver International Airport. , Deputies sealed off the area and called the Division of Wildlife.

The mountain lion was a female about 18 months old and weighed about 65 pounds. Wildlife officers planned to evaluate the lionthen tag her and release her in the mountains.

There were no injuries.

Point of Sales insurance vetoe

2009-08-10T07:24:00.000-07:00

Inside self storage reports that the New York Governor David Paterson last week vetoed a bill that would have made it easier for self-storage operators to offer point-of-sale tenant insurance with in New York.

The Department of Insurance raised concerns about other laws that might be affected by the proposed measure and disputed the proposed effective date. The rejection came even though the national Self Storage Association and New York Self Storage Association had addressed the issues with the department, and the bill had already passed the state Assembly and Senate.

Senate Bill 3477 would have amended the insurance law, authorizing the issuance of limited licenses to self-storage operators and allowing them to sell insurance coverage on personal property stored in self-storage units. Similar legislation has been passed in 10 other states, including California, Florida, Illinois, Texas and Washington.

Self Storage Economic Summit

2009-08-06T09:12:00.000-07:00

The Self Storage Association has announce a special half-day Economic Summit that will take place on Wednesday, September 9th, from 1:00 - 5:00 pm. The program will consist of three panels with topics surrounding today's most pressing issues. The first panel will be made up of lenders and associated experts; the second will include brokers; and the third will consist of owner/operators who are particularly qualified to share their ideas about today's contemporary challenges. To register visit http://www.selfstorage.org or call 514-228-3076.

Moving!

2009-08-05T07:01:00.000-07:00

Whether you are emigrating or relocating to another place. you may have to sell or even throw away some of your belongings. Every time you relocate to another place you cannot throw your valuables just because of the lack of space.. Instead of that you could look at other options. For example Self Storage.! Self Storage units are places where you can store your belonging in a safe and convenient location. Self storage is an easy way to manage your stuff and keeping safe your stuff.
Most companies allow access to your belonging to maintain them and keep them in great condition.
Due to the demand for self Storage there has been growth in competition amongst storage providers and with the sites like upickstorage.com, there has never been an easier time to find the right storage unit at a price that right for you.

Inside Self-Storage World Expo in Washington, D.C

2009-08-04T06:33:00.001-07:00

Inside Self Storage reports that an early-bird discount registration deadline for the Inside Self-Storage World Expo in Washington, D.C, has been extended to Aug. 14.

Inside Self Storage Expo was created for self-storage owners, managers, developers, investors and suppliers, this is a four days event with educational seminars, product and service exhibits and proves to be a great networking opportunities.

MJs Doc,s Storage under investigation

2009-08-03T05:58:00.000-07:00

I am sorry I do not want to be part of the Michael Jackson media circus. but i came across this story on TMZ..

Dr. Conrad Murray, Michael Jackson’s personal physician who administered CPR on the late King of Pop the morning he died, is already being looked at by law enforcement for his storage unit in Houston, which was raided earlier this month. TMZ now report he has an additional storage unit in Las Vegas.

2009-08-01T08:52:00.000-07:00

A article in the Post- Tribune in Northwest Indiana - reports that a once empty lot will be turned into a self-storage business.

Work has begun on building a storage facility , which will be 50,000 square feet.

The project is located just north of the Canadian National railroad tracks and east of Calumet, behind Martinis.

Craig Phillips, city planner, said he isn't sure what used to be there but believes an ice company used to be located just south of the property that Katz is building on.

The area has been vacant, except for a few empty buildings, since Phillips has been with the city, he said.

"I would say it's probably one of the underdeveloped areas of the city," he said.

The site used to be industrial, including a railroad maintenance yard, so the storage company is a significant change.

The article also mentions that most other storage facilities in the area are full.

Why does everybody want me to get rid of my junk

2009-07-31T14:17:00.000-07:00

Tom Megalis has been involved in the entertainment business, From TV, ads, film and radio. His credits.

Below is one of his youtube video's " Here is my storage unit. Why does everybody want me to get rid of my junk?"

Friday funnies!

2009-07-31T09:54:00.000-07:00

Friday funnies!

George Carlin ( legend)in this clip he talks Stuff and Storage...

Making Choices!

2009-07-30T06:56:00.000-07:00

Freedom of choice is what shapes a lot of our lives. The choices we make affect every moment, be it consciously or unconsciously. Even in dire and unforgivable circumstances, the freedom to choose how we view the situation, if nothing else, is always present.

When the powers that be throw a challenge our way we are asked to make choices. For instance your employer asks you to take a promotion, miles away from where you are currently based. You may choose to temporarily store your belongings at a facility that offers unit space for rent. Our lives are literally composed of the results of the choices that we have made or about to make.
When choosing a Self Storage facility to rent from, which could be for storing household items, your vehicles, your business items like files etc or a few racks of fine wine, making sure that you have carried out a thorough self storage comparison is one of the best actions that you can take.
There are a number of different methods that you can use to find the information you need to carry out an informative self storage comparisons. The telephone, asking friends or the walk-in method are often good ways to locate storage facilities. But the best place to start is online.

There are websites and search features on the Internet that gives you all the information you need, on just about every storing facility in the country not to mention the world. These websites will also give you generalized information in regards to the sizes of the units that each facility offers, as well as whether or not they offer climate controlled units.

Many people use websites that specialize in finding a product that they need. one type site people use to find the best deal are generally know as price comparison websites. This sites help compare products and prices from hundreds of retailers, side-by-side, helping people to choose the best deal whatever their are shopping for. Until recently there has been no website that has actually offered people this service when seeking solutions to their storage needs..

What will the Future bring Storage ??

2009-07-29T07:25:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking,( shock) in recent years there has been a huge increase in demand of self storage. The recent down turn in the economy, has started to make people look at different options to save on the annual spending. As people are taking job cuts, downsizing their family home and decrease their budgets, many of them have turned to self storage as a temporary solution; people want to retain their possessions in a clean, safe and secure storage location. This increase in demand has also increased the price of self storage as the demand for self storage grows on a daily basis. This growth has also raised a lot of interest from many business owners, who are keen to take advantage of an expanding market.
The recent finical crisis, which appears to be affecting all Connors of the world, has made people re-assess their situation, which in turn has made the movers and shakers in the world sit up and take note. For example; the housing market, a few years ago concentrated on big fancy homes, but recently there has been a trend for small more compacted homes. As we step blindly in to the future there appears to be more and more need for people to store all of that extra stuff.

Is reality Tv, the driving force behind Self Storage growth?

2009-07-28T07:03:00.000-07:00

With the current economic climate as it is, People are noticing how difficult to sell their home or property, particularly when they want to get the highest price.
The TV is full of shows that advices people how to make their home appealing to prospective buyers. Therefore homeowners are realizing the need to make their property more appealing to a larger market.

These TV show all have a common underlying theme about the negative effect of clutter in the home for example who has not heard a show which states “less is best”. All the experts believe that if a property has less in it, it will help prospective buyers visualize your house as their home.
I personally believe this has driven the recent increase Self Storage. As more and more home owners try to sell their property, they turn to Self Storage as a way to storage their unnecessary belonging, de-cluttering their home, whilst optimizing for prospective buyers
The use of self storage units as proven to provide a clean, safe and secure temporary home for larger non-essential belongings to create the feeling of space in a balanced and harmony with the home.
Self Storage can offer you the required space, very often long term storage periods can be agreed at discounted rates offering excellent value for money.

Funny Self Storage Ad.

2009-07-27T09:27:00.000-07:00

This is pretty funny..

2009-07-24T09:48:00.001-07:00

Laid back Friday

This has to be the most insane CCTV footage I have seen, and believe me, I have seen some footage. This guys just goes bezek....

How many of your friends are capable of this...?

Office Worker Goes Absolutely Insane - Watch more Funny Videos

What do you buy a storage marketing guy, for his Birthday?

2009-07-24T08:27:00.001-07:00

Wayhay! Its Friday, which means I generally like to post a lighthearted post.

Next week is upickstorage.com personnel marketing dude's Birthday... So everyone in the office has been racking their brains to come up with a perfect gift for him....

My favorite is a gift so unique. I discovered this beauty whilst trawling the blogs over at holytaco. He just loves his baseball caps collection and he is also so well organized. This is sure to be a a super addition to his mass array of fanny bags and filo faxes.

I also found a gift that we would be NUTS not to get him. He is often over heard having lively debates with himself, about his favorite Political characters. I am sure he will love THESE..

Self Storage Auctions, partie deux

2009-07-23T07:44:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I posted an Article about self storage auction, without fully explaining the principle behind the idea.

So what is A Self Storage Auction. A storage Auction is a common legal remedy. If you fail to pay your rent on the self Storage unit the owner of the facility can effectively hold your belonging to ransom, until the customer pays the outstanding amount of money. Most people would rather pay the money and usually do pay the fees, than risk losing the property outright.
However there are occasions were some people can not pay or do not want to pay the money that is owed the self-storage facility. This often results with the Self Storage owner selling the belongings at auction. This can be very upsetting for the original owner, particularly in regards to items that have little or no physical value, but of a very high sentimental value.
On the flip side, for buyers and browsers there are bargains to be found and bought. The main focus is the Storage owner to recoup some of the money that has been lost by the non payment of rent. As a general rule the storage facility tries to make back some of their money and empty the space so the unit can be re-rented..
If you happen to attend an Auction like this expect to find all kinds of items, from domestic, collectible, PC and consoles, to more bizarre items like stuff pets etc.

Vehicle Storage tips

2009-07-22T12:05:00.000-07:00

When placing your vehicle into storage there are a number of steps you need to be considered. These steps are partially important when protecting vehicle from deterioration especially from the elements.
Before storing your vehicle it is important to take some time to properly prepare it. If you forget to prepare your vehicle for storage it will more than likely lead to a very expensive repairs bill and other problems when you try to run your vehicle in the future?

Find a good location to store your vehicle in.
Basic vehicle maintenance
Do not place you vehicle in storage with an empty gas tank or even a half filled gas tank.
It is recommended that you use a Synthetic oil whilst you vehicle, because synthetic oil will not break down at the same speed as normal oil.
Do not forget to remove your battery when you are preparing your vehicle for storage
Carefully wash your vehicle and wax it before placing in storage.
Take some time to wipe down your tires and apply some lithium grease to prevent cracking and other problems
Cover you vehicle with a high quality vehicle cover.
Rodent traps and insect poison or bait around the outside of the vehicle will lower the risk of infestation.

Wierd Storage Stories,,,

2009-07-21T12:49:00.000-07:00

The other day I posted a blog about why people use Self Storage.

This got me thinking about some of the strange stories I have come across, whilst I have been editing these blogs.

One story that sticks in my minds, was told to me at a party were I was slightly intoxicated, the problem with this story was I was never able to pin down the source.

From the haze I can only recollect fragments of the tale. Which was about a Guy who stored a dead body in a freezer ( apparently the freezer was plugged in and powered) inside a Self storage unit. I was informed that the body was only noticed when the guy failed to pay his rent on time. The storage owner was forced to open the unit to discover the ghastly Find.... Something tells me that it is more urban myth than fact.

Although I did find a interesting article at Daily Screw up which appears to be fact...

Randy was a treasured family pet, who had been at the centre of his family all his life. Sadly when Randy departed to run after dogs, cats and the odd mail man in the sky he left a grieving family who missed him terribly. But after a visit to the taxidermist Randy returned to his owners. Here the less mobile Randy continued to reassure the family with his presence. Some years later when a new lady replaced the wife of Randy’s owner she failed to appreciate Randy’s charms. He soon found his way into a storage room, made more homely with some photos and a few of his best toys. His owner visits him regularly and the storage operator ignores the “no pets” rule.

Self Storage a rough space guide

2009-07-21T08:21:00.000-07:00

When Looking for Self Storage. People often wonder how much Storage space they would need. I thought it would be a good idea to give people seeking Self Storage a rough guide to the amount of space they would require:

• The contents of a 1 bedroom house or flat approx 50 - 75 sqft

• The contents of a 2 bedroom house or flat approx 75 - 100 sqft

• The contents of a 3 bedroom house or flat approx 100 - 150 sqft

• The contents of a 4 bedroom house or flat approx 150 - 200 sqft

The up side of the current economic situation

2009-07-20T14:16:00.001-07:00

Some good news for once about the current financial crisis. Numerous news stories published over the net are highlighting the fact that the business of self-storage has a tendency to counter the economic cycle. People often need storage space when the economy turns down and people who are in financial difficulties quickly downsize their lives.