Some who have never rented a storage unit end up feeling a little lost when they start looking for their first storage unit. There are so many things to look for when renting a storage unit, and we have everything you’ll ever need to know!
List everything going into storage.
Although tedious, making a list will help you greatly in the future. Note every item going into storage and include any larger items’ dimensions. This information will come in handy later when deciding on the size. Keep this list handy for future use.
Compare surrounding facilities.
When you are looking for a storage facility, here are some of the essential features to look for:
Security Measures: What is their attention to security? Are there cameras around the property? Is there a gated entryway to dissuade intruders? How secure are the locks at the unit? What other safety measures does the company take? Safety and security are a must when considering self-storage.
Access Hours: What hours do they operate? Are these hours convenient for your lifestyle? Are the staff onsite? A facility that works out of convenient hours with a team onsite to assist with any questions would be best for your self-storage experience.
Moving Aids: What moving aids do they offer, and do these cost you extra? Everything from things like our free move-in trucks, free dollies, and a large, well-maintained elevator will make your trips productive and quick!
Climate-Controlled Units: What capabilities protect your items in storage? The hot days of summer and cold nights of winter drastically change the humidity within a year. If the facility does not have defensive mechanisms, then your items are more likely to be hurt. Heating and cooling can be the best way to keep your things safe during these temperature changes year-round.
COVID-19 Changes: What precautions and procedural changes has the company taken since COVID-19? Your storage experience must take extra steps to be a safe experience, just like everything else in this new way of life. Look for No Contact Rental processes described on their website to give yourself the best experience.
Whether you have decided on a facility to use or you are still deciding between a few, it is a good idea to visit the facility or facilities you are interested in to take a tour. Ask your tour guide about the above points as you walk through the halls. Your self-storage provider should be able to give you precise, reassuring answers that match the solutions found on their website. Once you find the right storage provider, you are ready to choose your unit!
Choose the perfect unit for you.
Now you finally get to choose your unit! There is a wide array of sizes available to choose from, so you need to know how your things will fit, so you are not taking a guess in the dark. Use the list you made earlier to gauge the size of the unit you will need and pay attention to the dimensions of the larger items. Some companies have a size guide that will help visualize what size you need, like THIS ONE. If you would like to talk over your options, give the store a call and take to one of their representatives to get their expertise. Make your storage unit functional by accounting for a walkway to the back for easy access to all items. Do this by drawing a map of where everything will go. PRO TIP: Put the things you will often be retrieving to the unit’s front and the lesser-used items in the back.
We hope you find these tips helpful!