Renting a storage unit could be an excellent option if you want to free up space in your workplace or home. You may use them for a long-term or temporary storage solution depending on the specific purpose. However, finding an ideal storage unit is not a walk in the park. With numerous storage facilities peppered across America, you have to consider multiple factors to get the best deal. So here are some steps to make the selection process easier.
1. Evaluate your size needs
When renting a storage space, people typically come up with an educated guess. That way, customers lose money because they rent a larger space than what they require. In other cases, underestimating the amount of space you need can lead to a lot of frustration as you could potentially run out of space while storing your belongings.
Therefore, list everything you want to preserve in the storage unit. Before you rent one out, take the time to measure larger items to get a better idea of the size you will need.
2. Check for climate-control
Climate-controlled units have a controlled temperature and humidity level. This keeps moisture out of your most valuable possessions, such as important documents, woods antiques, and so on. Unlike in the past, climate-controlled storage spaces are not as expensive. Companies like Ironguard Storage offer them at reasonable prices without compromising the quality of service.
3. Check the location
When we talk about location, we refer to both the location of the storage facility and the unit’s location within the facility. You could be lured to rent from a storage service provider near your current residence or office. While the facility may be convenient to access, it may not offer all the features you desire. A better strategy is to expand your search radius and include facilities within at least a half-hour drive of your home. The odds are, you could find one with superior amenities at a lower price if you broaden your search.
Once you have determined the location of the storage facility, decide where you would like your unit to be. You have two options to pick from – indoor and outdoor storage units. An indoor storage unit is situated within the storage facility. These are accessible via an interior corridor and are positioned on the first, second, or even third floors, with elevator access to the top floors. Indoor units have the advantage of being easier to reach, and your belongings will be kept at a more consistent temperature year-round. On the negative side, loading and unloading objects, especially heavy items like furniture, may be more difficult.
On the other hand, outdoor units can be larger than indoor units, making loading, unloading, and storing items easier. These units are not quite as warm as their indoor counterparts. And you could have to move things in the aftermath of snow, rain, or other inclement weather.
4. Access time
You must also consider when you will be able to access your storage unit. Nowadays, many storage units have 24-hour access, seven days a week, which is great if you’re storing stuff you may require at any time. Others operate just during normal business hours.
To be on the safe side, you should also figure out when the office is open as well. Although you may be allowed to reach your unit at any time, there is likely a time limit on when you can engage with the staff members.
5. Property And technology
The safety of your belongings should be a top priority for any storage company. Assess the property’s condition along with technology to conclude whether the company’s claims about itself are accurate or not.
We recommend finding a storage unit with at least 20 operational, high-definition security cameras. You would be astonished at how many places install cameras and then fail to repair them when they break.
Inquire about the length of time their digital video recorder (DVR). If they do not know, they are unlikely to be concerned about the safety of your belongings. Ideally, you should opt for a storage unit with a minimum 30-day DVR recording so that if something goes wrong with your unit, you can roll back the footage.
6. Check for insurance
The majority of storage facilities require you to insure the contents of your unit. Also, storage insurance is nearly always available directly from the storage firm. The benefits of using the storage company’s insurance are that it is usually very affordable, covers rodent damage, and comes with no deductible. On the flip side, if you use your homeowner’s insurance, you will have to pay your deductible first and risk having your insurance increased or canceled along the way.
7. Review payment policies
It is best to check with your storage facility to find out exactly what payment methods are accepted. You can pay with a credit card or a bank account at many storage facilities that provide online access to your account. To avoid having your unit auctioned off, be sure you understand the payment due date and the late payment policies.
Check whether the facility offers automated payments from your credit card or bank account if you’re exceptionally busy or have trouble remembering deadlines. This could be the best option for avoiding late payment.
8. Deals and discounts
You might be able to get a cheaper cost or even a free month if you rent for a longer period. It is a good idea to shop around for the discounted price on the storage unit you want. Just be sure you have a list of the other things you desire in the unit first so you can compare facilities fairly.
9. Purchase a safe lock
Be sure to inquire about locks at the storage facility. Some providers require customers to purchase a specific type of lock, while others allow you to choose your own lock. For added security, we recommend purchasing a more expensive model. The extra money spent on high-security locks is well worth it.
Conclusion
Leasing a storage facility is a smart method to keep your belongings safe and secure during events such as remodeling, relocation, decluttering, etc. They are also ideal for folks who have run out of storage space in their house. Whatever your purpose, following these tips listed above will lead you to hire the best storage unit.