Turn Your Garage Sale into a Profitable Event at The A-Storage MarketSpace

Hosting a garage sale at home can be a juggling act—limited parking, unpredictable weather, and the constant need to move items around. But what if you could rent a dedicated space with reliable foot traffic and protection from the elements? A-Storage in Helena, MT, is proud to offer weekly rentals for customers who want a secure, accessible spot to host their garage sales. We don’t provide staff or help you set up, but we do give you the freedom and space to manage your own successful event.

1. Why Rent a Weekly Garage Sale Space?

Traditional yard sales rely heavily on the weather and your home’s location. By renting from A-Storage, you eliminate those wildcards. Our facility offers ample parking, protection from rain or snow, and a place that’s easy for shoppers to find. Since you can rent by the week, you have more time to sell without the usual two-day rush of a typical garage sale.

2. Manage Your Own Sale—Your Way

At A-Storage, you handle everything—from setting up your tables and pricing your items to greeting buyers. We simply provide the dedicated space. This independence means you can arrange and display your items exactly how you want, without any outside interference. If you need daily breaks or choose to close temporarily, you have the flexibility to run your sale on your own schedule.

3. Secure and Convenient Location

While we don’t staff your garage sale, we do offer a secure environment equipped with gated access and surveillance. This not only helps deter theft but also gives peace of mind when you step away. Shoppers will appreciate the clear, well-marked facility, and you won’t have to worry about cars clogging your neighborhood street.

4. Attract More Potential Buyers

Helena residents are always on the lookout for good deals, and a garage sale at a central location can be a huge draw. Spread the word through social media, local classifieds, or Helena-focused Facebook groups. Emphasize that your items are all in one convenient spot—rain or shine—so shoppers can browse comfortably. The more you market, the more potential buyers you’ll have checking out your sale all week long.

5. Schedule Your Sale Now

Don’t wait for the perfect alignment of weather, schedules, and postcards tacked to telephone poles. Now is the perfect time to secure your weekly rental at A-Storage. Enjoy a safer, more predictable garage sale while keeping all the profits. Give us a call to learn more about pricing and availability—and get ready to turn your clutter into cash, stress-free.

5 Ways Self-Storage Can Help Small Businesses Thrive in February

February is often a critical turning point for small businesses. With 80% of small businesses citing cash flow and organization as top challenges after the holiday season, many entrepreneurs find themselves juggling tax preparations and operational refinements to start the year strong. (Source: Small Business Trends) This highlights the importance of strategic planning during this period. For small businesses in Helena, MT, where harsh winter weather and limited downtown space can create unique challenges, self-storage can be an invaluable resource for managing inventory and staying organized. A local facility like A-Storage offers tailored solutions to meet the needs of Helena’s business community. Their features include climate-controlled units to protect delicate items, 24/7 security for peace of mind, and flexible rental options for businesses of all sizes—ensuring an ideal storage solution for every situation. Here are five ways self-storage can help small businesses thrive in February:

1. Cost-Effective Inventory Management

Managing inventory efficiently is a challenge for small businesses, especially those with limited space. For example, a boutique in downtown Helena might struggle to store post-holiday clearance items or new spring collections, making self-storage a practical solution. In fact, a recent study shows that 46% of small businesses report losing sales due to stockouts or disorganized inventory, making effective storage solutions essential for growth and customer satisfaction. Renting a self-storage unit at A-Storage allows business owners to store excess inventory, seasonal products, or slow-moving stock without paying for larger retail or office space.

In February, many businesses in Helena are transitioning from winter to spring inventory. A storage unit provides a secure place to hold surplus stock from post-holiday sales or early spring shipments, keeping workspace clutter-free and organized.

2. Seasonal Equipment Storage

For businesses that rely on seasonal equipment, such as landscaping tools, holiday decorations, or event supplies, February is the perfect time to assess and store these items. Self-storage units at A-Storage offer a safe and accessible solution to keep these tools out of the way until they’re needed again.

For example, a landscaping company in Helena can store snow blowers and other winter equipment until next season, making room for spring gear. This not only protects valuable assets but also helps keep the business ready for the next phase.

3. Flexible Workspace Solutions

Small business owners often wear many hats, and storage units can double as flexible workspaces for specific needs. Units at A-Storage are suitable for organizing, packaging, or sorting inventory in a quiet and spacious environment.

This is especially useful in February, as businesses begin preparing for tax season or reorganizing their inventory systems. A storage unit can act as a dedicated space for tackling these administrative tasks without disrupting daily operations at the main workplace.

4. Document and Record Storage for Tax Season

February marks the beginning of tax season preparations for many small businesses. Storing important documents like invoices, receipts, and financial records in a secure storage unit can help keep offices organized and free of clutter.

At A-Storage, climate-controlled units are available to preserve sensitive documents, such as invoices, tax records, and contracts. This protects them from moisture, temperature fluctuations, and potential damage, ensuring that critical paperwork is secure and easily accessible when needed. This ensures that critical records are safe, accessible, and well-organized when they’re needed for audits or tax filing.

5. Scalable Solutions for Growing Businesses

February is an excellent time for small businesses to evaluate growth opportunities. Self-storage units at A-Storage offer a scalable solution to accommodate changes in business needs. As your business grows, you can upgrade to a larger unit or rent multiple units to handle increased inventory, equipment, or supplies.

This flexibility makes self-storage an ideal choice for businesses planning to expand their operations or explore new revenue streams, such as offering pop-up shops or seasonal services, without committing to costly long-term leases.

Final Thoughts

Self-storage isn’t just for personal use; it’s a versatile tool that can help small businesses in Helena, Montana, thrive year-round. From storing seasonal inventory during winter months to organizing equipment and supplies for peak seasons, self-storage adapts to the ever-changing needs of businesses. For instance, during summer, Helena businesses can use self-storage to manage outdoor gear or extra merchandise. This year-round adaptability ensures consistent support, far beyond transitional periods like February. By providing cost-effective storage for inventory, seasonal equipment, documents, and more, A-Storage allows small business owners to focus on what they do best—growing their business.

Whether you’re looking to declutter your workspace, prepare for tax season, or scale your operations, self-storage offers the flexibility and convenience to meet your needs. Consider how a storage unit at A-Storage could benefit your business this February and set yourself up for success in the months ahead.

What Not to Store in a Storage Unit: Avoid These Common Mistakes

1. Perishable Items

Using a storage unit can be a lifesaver—especially if you’re decluttering your Helena, MT home or need extra space for work inventory. However, not everything belongs behind that secure roll-up door. Some items can be hazardous, illegal, or simply unsuitable for self-storage. Here’s a handy guide from A-Storage to help you keep your unit (and your peace of mind) safe.

It might be tempting to stash your leftover party supplies or grocery store overflow, but food items can attract pests and cause unpleasant odors. If you wouldn’t let it sit in your basement for months, it’s best to keep it out of your storage unit.

2. Hazardous Materials

Substances like gasoline, paint thinner, and fireworks are highly flammable and could pose a serious risk. Similarly, corrosive or toxic chemicals aren’t allowed because they endanger the environment and neighboring units. If you need to store equipment like lawnmowers, be sure to drain the fuel first.

3. Live Animals or Plants

It’s never OK to store pets or houseplants in a storage unit (no matter how temporary you think it might be!). Beyond being inhumane, these living things won’t survive Helena’s seasonal temperature swings without proper care.

4. Stolen or Illegal Items

This one might seem obvious, but it’s worth stating: anything that’s stolen or illegal to possess doesn’t belong in a storage unit. Storage facilities like A-Storage have strict policies against such items, and local laws forbid them.

5. Wet or Mold-Prone Belongings

Dumping damp clothes, wet tarps, or any waterlogged items into a storage unit is basically an invitation for mold and mildew. Dry everything thoroughly before storage. If you’re concerned about humidity, consider climate-controlled units to protect your valuables.

Pro Tip:

Always check your storage facility’s guidelines and ask if you’re unsure whether something is allowed. At A-Storage, we’re here to help you find the perfect unit and provide peace of mind for all your storage needs in Helena, MT. By steering clear of these common mistakes, you’ll have a safer, more efficient storage experience—and avoid potential headaches down the line.

How to Organize Your Storage Unit Like a Pro in Helena, MT

Staying organized in a self-storage unit isn’t always a walk in the park—especially if you’re juggling a busy Helena, MT lifestyle. With changing seasons and an endless list of hobbies, it’s easy for boxes to pile up. The good news? A little planning can turn your storage unit from a cluttered cave into an organizational oasis. Here are some tried-and-true tips from A-Storage to help you make the most of your space.

1. Visualize Your Layout

Before you haul everything in, imagine how you’ll set up your unit. Heavier items (like couches or appliances) go against the walls or at the back, while you keep a clear walkway through the middle. It may feel like you’re sacrificing space, but you’ll love being able to reach your winter coats without performing a gymnastics routine.

2. Label Like a Legend

There’s nothing quite like opening a mystery box only to find everything but what you’re looking for. Avoid the “Box of Doom” by labeling clearly: use color-coded stickers or permanent markers to list the contents (e.g., “Summer Clothes,” “Kitchen Gadgets,” “Holiday Décor”). Trust us—your future self will thank you.

3. Shelf It or Bin It

Free-standing shelves work wonders for maximizing vertical space, perfect for storing labeled containers. Clear plastic bins let you see exactly what’s inside (a major perk when you’re racing to grab snow boots during a Helena cold snap). Keeping belongings off the floor also helps protect them from dust and potential moisture.

4. Prioritize Easy Access

Think about what you’ll need first—like that s’mores kit for a spontaneous weekend at Lake Helena—and place it near the front. Items you use less often can hang out in the back without causing chaos every time you swing by.

5. Maintain a Master List

Whether you prefer an app or old-school notepad, record what’s in each bin and where it’s located. This simple step can save you from frantically rummaging for the one item you forgot to label (looking at you, holiday lights).

By following these steps, you’ll transform your unit into a functional space where you can quickly find what you need. If you’re scouting for a clean, secure place to store your stuff in Helena, MT, A-Storage is here to help. From climate-controlled units to friendly staff, we’ve got everything you need for a hassle-free storage experience.

How to Store Christmas Decorations Safely

When the festive season ends in Helena, Montana, many of us find ourselves packing up our Christmas trees, ornaments, and lights in a hurry—only to discover broken bulbs and tangled strands next year. Given the often-frigid winters and low humidity in Big Sky Country, storing your Christmas décor properly is especially important. Plus, if your home or garage is short on space, a local storage facility like A-Storage can help keep your festive treasures safe and secure until you’re ready to deck the halls again.

1. Sort and Declutter

Before anything goes into a box, sort through your Christmas décor. We all have those strands of burned-out lights or ornaments that have lost their sparkle. Decide what’s worth keeping and what can be donated or recycled. This step not only frees up space in your home, but also saves you time and money when packing—and it means you won’t have to rummage through piles of unused décor next Christmas.

2. Wrap Delicate Items Carefully

Winter in Montana can be harsh, with temperature fluctuations that might stress fragile items in an unprotected environment. Wrapping each ornament in tissue paper, bubble wrap, or even acid-free packing paper helps prevent chips and cracks. For heirloom or sentimental pieces, look for specialized storage containers with individual compartments that keep them cushioned and secure, whether they stay at home or in a climate-controlled unit at A-Storage.

3. Coil and Label Lights

Tangled strands of lights can easily become damaged, especially in Helena’s dry winter air. To avoid the frustration of knotted or broken wires, wrap each strand around a piece of cardboard or an empty wrapping paper tube. Use twist ties or rubber bands to keep them in place. Label each coil—e.g., “tree lights” or “outdoor porch”—so you’ll know exactly where they go when you’re ready to decorate next year.

4. Label and Color-Code Bins

Whether you’re storing your décor at home or bringing it to A-Storage, proper labeling is key. Invest in clear plastic bins or sturdy boxes and mark each one clearly: “Red & Green Ornaments,” “Nativity Set,” “Stockings,” etc. You can even color-code your storage bins—red and green for Christmas, pastel tones for Easter—to quickly spot what you need when the season arrives.

5. Consider Climate-Controlled Storage

Temperature and humidity in Montana can swing dramatically from one season to the next. Fabrics, wooden ornaments, or delicate glass pieces may crack or mildew if left in attics or sheds with no climate control. A-Storage offers climate-controlled units that maintain more stable temperature and humidity levels, protecting your Christmas treasures from mold, mildew, and moisture damage.

6. Stay Organized Year-Round

Finally, when it comes time to tuck your decorations away, be mindful of how you store and stack your boxes. Put heavier items at the bottom and keep fragile items on top. Make sure you leave a path for easy access in your storage unit. Should you need something mid-year—maybe a few strands of lights for a summer party—you won’t have to pull everything out to find it.

With a little extra care and some smart packing strategies, you can keep your Christmas décor in tip-top shape for next year and beyond. If you’re searching for a trusted local facility to store your holiday cheer, A-Storage in Helena, MT, is here to help you safeguard your cherished decorations year-round.

January Moving Guide: Why Storage Units Are Essential in Helena, MT

A serene winter scene at a storage facility in Helena, Montana. Single-story gray storage units are surrounded by snow, with snow-capped mountains and pine trees in the background. The peaceful atmosphere highlights the tranquility of the season.

Introduction:
Moving during the winter in Helena, MT, can be a daunting task. From icy roads to unpredictable snowstorms, January relocations require careful planning and reliable resources. One of the best tools to make your move easier is a storage unit. At A-Storage of Montana, we’re here to help Helena residents navigate their winter moves with secure, flexible storage solutions.

Why Move in January?
While moving in the winter might not seem ideal, January often presents unique advantages:

  • Lower Moving Costs: Winter is an off-peak season for movers, meaning you could save money on professional moving services.
  • Flexible Schedules: Movers and storage facilities like A-Storage of Montana are less busy, giving you greater flexibility to choose dates that work best for you.

However, it’s important to prepare for the challenges winter moves can bring, especially in Montana’s cold climate.

Challenges of Moving in Winter:

  • Snow and Ice: Icy roads and snowy driveways can create transportation delays and hazards. Make sure to clear pathways for easy access to your home and storage unit.
  • Fragile Items: Freezing temperatures can damage sensitive belongings, such as electronics, wood furniture, and artwork, if not properly protected.
  • Unpredictable Weather: In Helena, January often brings sub-freezing temperatures and sudden storms, making it essential to have a backup plan in case of delays.

How Storage Units Help with Winter Moves:

  1. Temporary Storage for Delayed Moves:
    Winter storms in Helena can disrupt even the most carefully planned moves. A storage unit at A-Storage of Montana provides a safe place to store your belongings if your move is delayed or your new home isn’t ready on time.
  2. Protect Belongings from Harsh Weather:
    Our climate-controlled storage units are perfect for protecting sensitive items like electronics, musical instruments, and antiques from freezing temperatures and humidity.
  3. Convenient Access:
    With easy, all-weather access to our units, you can load and unload your belongings at your convenience—even during a snowy Montana day.
  4. Downsizing and Organization:
    If you’re downsizing or trying to de-clutter during your move, a storage unit can hold excess furniture and boxes until you’re ready to sort through them.

Local Moving Tips for Helena Residents:

  • Stay Weather-Aware: Regularly check weather updates through the National Weather Service for Helena to plan your moving days around storms.
  • Pack Smart for Winter: Use heavy-duty, weatherproof plastic bins instead of cardboard boxes to protect your items from moisture.
  • Protect Your Floors: Snow and mud can quickly damage flooring during a winter move. Lay down old blankets, rugs, or plastic sheets to keep your home clean.
  • Hire Local Help: Helena-based moving companies are experienced with Montana’s winter conditions. Pairing them with a storage unit from A-Storage of Montana ensures a smooth transition.

Why Choose A-Storage of Montana for Your Winter Move?

At A-Storage of Montana, we understand the unique challenges of moving during the winter. Here’s why Helena residents trust us for their storage needs:

  • Climate-Controlled Units: Perfect for protecting your valuables from Helena’s sub-zero temperatures.
  • Flexible Leasing Options: Whether you need short-term storage for a few weeks or a longer-term solution, we offer month-to-month leases to fit your schedule.
  • Secure Facility: Our 24/7 surveillance and gated access ensure your belongings stay safe, no matter the weather.
  • Convenient Location: Located in Helena, our facility is easily accessible from major roads, making loading and unloading hassle-free—even during Montana’s snowy season.

Final Thoughts:
Moving in January doesn’t have to be stressful. With proper planning and the right storage partner, you can protect your belongings and simplify the process. At A-Storage of Montana, we’re here to support you every step of the way with secure, flexible storage solutions designed to meet your needs.

Ready to reserve your unit? Contact us today to learn more or stop by our facility to see how we can make your winter move easier!

How to Safely Store Your Animal Mounts

Hunting season is quickly approaching, and it’s time to ask yourself if you have room for new taxidermy trophies. What if you already have too many to fit on the walls of your house? There is a solution: You can store these mounts in a safe and pest-free way. Just follow these steps to keep them stored in pristine condition even when they’re packed away.

  • Store Taxidermy Indoors 

Leaving your taxidermy mounts outdoors can leave them exposed to sunlight and dangerous UV rays, which may cause fading to the fur or skin.   They may even be invaded by insects if they’re not properly insulated.  Remember that  an attic or basement may not have enough space to store all of your trophies.  And if they do, your trophies still may end up in direct sunlight from windows. Keep them protected, and therefore the best place to do that is at a secure, safe, clean storage facility.

  • Buy or Create Wooden Crates

The best way to prevent scratches and harm as you transport taxidermy is to store it in a wooden crate.  You’ll be able to screw the mount to at least one side of the crate using wood screws and carrying it that way.  You can build your own crates, or ask a local taxidermist or tannery for one.

  • Wear Gloves

Not all specimens are dangerous to touch.  Most taxidermy done these days is maintained with a dry preservative or tanning method, so that they can be handled even while not wearing gloves.  However, some mounts will contain toxic materials, therefore you’ll have to use caution.  It’s best to simply wear gloves in all instances.

  • Protect Them From Pests

Place poison pellets, Not pest strips, and silica gel packets within the crate(s).  As an alternative, you’ll coat the crates with a chemical sealer to keep pests out.  Lastly, make certain you’re cleansing the area where you store your animal mounts frequently.

  • Measure the Doors

If you’re using wooden crates, for storing a number of the larger mounts, can measure the doors before renting a space to make certain that the storage unit will fill your needs.

Storing Your Vehicles, Boats and RVs Can Help With a Quick Home Sale

A modern suburban home with a clean and spacious driveway and garage, free of vehicles, surrounded by a well-maintained yard. The scene is bright and inviting, representing a home ready for sale. A storage facility is subtly visible in the background, symbolizing off-site vehicle storage.
De-cluttering your home driveway and garage by storing excess vehicles off-site can create a spacious and appealing environment for potential buyers.

In a competitive sellers’ market, staging your home is essential. While a lived-in appearance can increase the chances of a sale, too much clutter or the wrong items on display can have the opposite effect.

Many homeowners rent storage units to declutter their homes during the selling process. However, one often-overlooked strategy is storing excess vehicles. Boats, second cars, RVs, and snowmobiles can take up valuable space and detract from your home’s appeal. Here’s why storing these vehicles might be a smart move:

  • Here is why:

Vehicles take up a large amount of space.  This can make your garage or driveway feel crowded.  Many home buyers want as much space as they can get for their money, removing one or more vehicles from your property creates the illusion of more room to your home’s potential new owner.

If your vehicles are not in the best shape, they can make your property look shabby.  This can turn-off potential buyers or encourage low-ball offers.

Parking in front of your home can often make your place less visible to potential buyers.

  • Types of Vehicle Storage:Fortunately, our storage facilities provide vehicle storage services. Your choices might include:
  • Outside Storage:  This is basically an oversized parking lot. Rent a spot and park your vehicle for as long as you would like. this is|this can be} often the most cost-efficient choice and a decent alternative.
  • Drive-In Storage Units:  If you plan to store things other than your vehicle, check out a drive-in storage unit.  These are large, garage-like storage units that you can use to store your vehicle(s) and your belongings.  These units provide a large amount of protection and security for your vehicle(s) and may prove cost-efficient if you have lots of things that you have to store while your house is on the market.
  • Key Questions to Ask Before Renting:

Before selecting a storage facility, consider the following:

  • Security: What security measures are in place? Are there cameras, gates, or on-site staff?

  • Accessibility: How easy is it to access your vehicle? Are there restrictions on entry hours?

  • Lighting: Is the facility well-lit for safety and ease of access, especially if you’ll need to visit after dark?

Final Thoughts:

Staging your home isn’t just about furniture and decor. Ensuring your property feels open, tidy, and inviting extends to your driveway and garage. By storing extra vehicles off-site, you can create a more spacious and appealing environment for prospective buyers, helping your home stand out in a competitive market.

Things From Childhood That You Should Never Throw Away

“Never say goodbye because goodbye means going away and going away means forgetting.”

While Peter Pan’s J.M. Barrie may not have been referring to the things around your house, we still think it could apply.

Here are five things from your childhood you ought to never throw away because “going away means forgetting”

  • Trophies and awards

Where you the “Student of the Month” in third grade?  While this may not be something you put on your resume, keeping awards from your childhood may be a fun way to travel down memory lane.  So if you were a straight A student, all-star athlete, science fair winner, or anything else deserving of a trophy, or ribbon growing up, then hold onto those memories.

  • Artwork

Instead of discarding all of your childhood drawings and paintings, store them away for nostalgia’s sake.  Here is a link to The Artful Parent – 21 Ideas to Display Kids Artwork.

  • Yearbooks

From college to elementary school, yearbooks are definitely something worth keeping.  Not only do they have photos of the good old days, they also include nice messages from your childhood friends and teachers who signed them for you.

  • Sentimental clothing

Not just any article of clothing, keep the special things that you wouldn’t mind passing down.  This might include hand-loomed sweaters or outfits worn during important events like religious ceremonies, birthdays, or weddings.  It may also include athletic uniforms, like the one you wore throughout the big game!

  • Things that you could not live without growing up

Whether it’s your favorite stuffed animal or blanket, we all have something that we took everywhere growing up.  No need to get rid of it simply because you’re older.  Keep your special childhood item just for memories or to pass them down to your kids.

Self-Storage Tips for Traveling Long-Term

If you happen to be traveling or moving to a far away location, then you will need to deal with all your belongings in the best way possible.  You will have to downsize and cut away a lot of your belongings so that you can make the move, especially if you are not planning on leaving a home behind.  In many cases you will be able to leave some of your belongings with family or friends, letting them use them or giving them away completely, in other instances you will have to deal with a self-storage facility.  The following tips will give you some knowledge on how you can prepare yourself for that day.

  • Choosing a Self-Storage Facility

One of the first things you have to do with your efforts is to figure out which local company has the most cost-effective solution for your needs.  It would be wisest to choose a self-storage facility located near a major street or even a highway, this will give you the easiest access at all times.  There is more than that though properties outside city limits may also be less expensive.  Here is a great article about Finding a storage unit for your next move. 

  • Downsizing Your Belongings

Once you have chosen the location of the storage unit you will need to rid yourself of all the things that you won’t be using anymore.  Large pieces of furniture that you know you won’t need should go away, allowing others to make use of them.  You can use classifieds websites to help facilitate get the job done or you can organize a yard sale.  Alternately, you can just donate them to a charity to pass through the process faster.  If you are doing a yard sale remember to keep prices low so you won’t have pack all of you belongings up.  The main idea is to get something out of the whole ordeal so you can help to counteract the expenses of your move.  Be sure and get a receipt from the charities then you can get the tax write-offs.

  • Packing Phase

Once you have completed the downsizing phase of your preparations you must pay close attention to the packing of everything that is left for your storage unit. One of the most important moments here is labeling all you boxes so you’ll know what is goes where later on.  Make certain to do that in a way that will allow you easy access once they have been delivered to their final destination.  Having a good list on-site will help to organize things and find where everything is whenever you need to return to the storage unit.

  • Moving Things

After all your preparation is complete you will need to move everything to its final destination.  One thing to remember when you are storing things is to avoid over-stuffing and making the stacked boxes to tall.  This will only serve to make them more unstable and dangerous to everything you have stored inside.  Remember to stack heavy boxes on the bottom, this will give you a stable base to work with.