Dickinson, ND residents storing valuables face one of the most demanding storage climates in the country — sub-zero winters, dramatic temperature swings, and low humidity that cause serious damage to unprotected electronics, antiques, artwork, and documents.
Most people think about theft when they think about protecting storage unit contents. But in Dickinson's climate, environmental damage is equally serious — and often more certain. Sub-zero winter temperatures cause electronics to fail, plastics to crack, and adhesives to lose their bond. Extreme dry winter air causes wood antiques to crack and split, leather goods to stiffen and fail, and paper-based items to become brittle. Rapid temperature cycling between seasons causes expansion and contraction that damages everything from artwork to furniture joints. A climate-controlled unit at Storage Unit of Dickinson is the single most important step in protecting any valuable item through a North Dakota winter.
For valuable items, facility-level security matters enormously. Look for perimeter fencing with controlled electronic gate access, high-definition surveillance cameras covering all areas of the property, professional on-site management, well-lit grounds throughout including unit corridors, and the ability to use your own high-security lock. Storage Unit of Dickinson is built with comprehensive security infrastructure specifically designed to protect Dickinson, ND residents' most important belongings — call (701) 690-5512 to learn more about our security features and climate-controlled options.
Electronics: Wrap in anti-static bubble wrap. Store in original packaging where possible. Remove all batteries for long-term storage — cold temperatures drain and damage batteries even when devices are off. Store screens vertically with padding. Wood antiques and furniture: Apply a protective coat of furniture wax or wood conditioner before storage to prevent cracking from Dickinson's dry winter air. Wrap in breathable furniture covers not plastic. Leather goods: Condition thoroughly before storage. Store in breathable covers in a climate-controlled unit. Artwork: Store vertically in protective frames. Never stack unpadded. Documents and photographs: Acid-free archival boxes or fireproof document boxes for originals. Digitize anything irreplaceable before storing.
Use coded neutral labels on boxes — never write contents like jewelry, electronics, or firearms on the outside where anyone can see them. Position the most valuable items toward the back of the unit, less visible when the door first opens. Visit your unit periodically — at least every few months — to verify everything is in order and check for any signs of moisture or temperature issues. Keep access codes and unit information private. Review your insurance coverage annually to ensure it still reflects the current value of your stored belongings.
Storage Unit of Dickinson offers clean, secure, and climate-controlled storage in Dickinson, ND — built for North Dakota's demanding climate and designed to protect your most valuable belongings from both security threats and environmental damage. Call (701) 690-5512 today to find the right unit and get your valuables properly protected through every North Dakota season.