Document Storage and Shredding: Tips for Business Owners
In today's world, businesses create a lot of paperwork, even with the rise of digital documents. As a result, document storage, disposal, and shredding have become high priority issues for businesses of all sizes. Whether it's to free up space, protect sensitive information, or maintain solid records, archiving documents has become essential.
There are many situations where documents need to be archived off-site. For instance, if an office is crammed with an abundance of files that need to be retained for legal or tax reasons, it may be time to consider off-site storage. Similarly, a mobile business with little space at its base of operations may need to archive documents off-site. Even a home-based business may face security issues with limited storage space and children playing around, making document storage a concern.
Some companies specialize in archiving documents. Depending on your budget, they can pick up, organize and archive your documents in a secure facility. When you need a document, they can deliver it within a few hours or by overnight delivery. However, business owners who prefer to access files at any time and spend less money may opt for leasing a self-storage unit to house and protect their documents. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a self-storage facility for your documents:
Security: Protecting Your Business Documents in Self-Storage Facilities
Keeping important documents and files secure is essential for any business. When selecting a self-storage facility, security should be a top priority. Look for a facility with a good visitor safety record and the ability to protect stored items. One way to assess the security of a facility is to check if it has 24-hour on-site management, surveillance cameras, security personnel, monitored access, or alarms. Additionally, look for well-lit parking areas and hallways, and find out what type of locking mechanisms are available on units. It's important to ensure that the facility has security fencing around it and that it is in good repair.
Accessing Your Documents: Important Considerations When Choosing a Self-Storage Facility
Convenient access to stored files is another important factor to consider when choosing a self-storage facility. Find out when you can access your storage unit. Many facilities allow entry after business hours using a security card or code. Some may also provide 24/7 access. Consider what works best for your business needs.
Future-Proofing Your Storage Needs: Choosing a Self-Storage Facility That Grows With Your Business
When choosing a self-storage facility for document storage, consider your future needs. While you may need a small room at first, over time, you are likely to have more files. Find out if larger room sizes with the features you need will be available. Consider if there is room for growth and if the facility can accommodate your expanding needs.
Climate-Controlled Storage: Why It's Essential for Storing Your Business Documents
Moisture and humidity can destroy important documentation. Therefore, it is important to store sensitive documents in a facility with temperature and humidity control, especially if you live in areas where damp and heat are common. Consider if the facility offers climate-controlled storage units to ensure that your documents remain in good condition.
Location Matters: Finding a Convenient and Safe Self-Storage Facility for Your Business
The location of a self-storage facility is another important consideration. Ensure that the facility is in proximity to your business. If you need a file quickly, you will want to be able to travel there in a short amount of time. It is also important to feel safe driving through the neighborhood where the unit is located, whether it's day or night. Consider if the location is easily accessible and if it is in a safe and secure area.
Reputation Matters: How to Choose a Reliable Self-Storage Company for Your Business Documents
Before selecting a self-storage facility, do some research on the reputation of the storage company. Check with friends at other businesses to see what self-storage company they use. You may also look online to find out if any local self-storage companies specialize in document storage or offer features that would make them good places to store documents. It's important to choose a storage company with a good reputation and a track record of providing safe and secure storage solutions for businesses.
Prior to taking everything to a storage site, businesses should organize their files and pare down paperwork. Unneeded documents containing sensitive information should be shredded with a cross-cut shredder or removed by a professional recycling company that specializes in destroying classified office material. In some areas, businesses may be able to burn documents. Regardless of the disposal method, documents that are no longer needed but that contain sensitive information like social security numbers, private contracts or legal information, or trade secrets should be thoroughly destroyed.
To secure files while they are in storage, businesses may want to invest in specially made archival cabinetry that lock and protect documents from fire and moisture. Sensitive items that are stored should be labeled as classified, and the names or titles of those authorized to view the documents should be included on the label when possible. Although businesses may want or need to save hard copies of documents, they should also have digital backups or, at least, paper.
Finally, businesses should also consider implementing a records retention policy to ensure that they are only retaining necessary documents for the appropriate amount of time. This can help to reduce clutter and streamline the document storage process.
Document storage and disposal is a high priority issue for businesses of all sizes. Whether you choose to use a specialized archiving company or a self storage unit, it's important to consider factors such as security, access, ability to expand, climate controls, location, and the reputation of the storage company. Additionally, businesses should take steps to organize their files, dispose of unneeded documents properly, label sensitive items as classified, and implement a records retention policy to reduce clutter and streamline the document storage process. By taking these steps, businesses can ensure that their sensitive information is protected and accessible when needed.
The advice on this website is provided as a courtesy for informational purposes only.