Renting a storage unit can be a great solution for many. It gives you a place to safely and securely store your belongings on a temporary or permanent basis, also allowing you to access your unit any time you want. Storage units are ideal for storing seasonal items, perfect when moving, and you need a temporary place to store belongings or even just to help you to declutter and better organize your home. But it’s important to note that not all storage units are equal, and price alone shouldn’t be what makes your decision.
This quick guide to renting a storage unit will make the process simple and quick.
1 How Big of a Unit Do You Need?
Because storage units come in a wide array of sizes, it’s important to start here. What’s the minimum size you need? Will that be enough for the long-term that you plan on using the unit, or will you grow out of the space? Pricing is determined based on the size of the unit you rent, so most tend to pick the smallest unit they require.
2 Self-Service vs. Full-Service Storage – What’s Best?
Finally, there is the option of self-storage vs full-service storage. Generally speaking, self-storage tends to be the better option. It gives you more control, you’ll have more options in sizes, it is more convenient, and it is perfect for short or long-term rental. The cost will also be much lower; you can check out this company, for example, with over 50 affordable self-storage locations to get a better idea.
With a full-service storage facility, it will be the employees who pack up your items and then store them. This tends to be popular with business owners looking for a temporary storage option and who don’t have time to deal with all the details.
3 Is It an Indoor or Outdoor Facing Unit?
There are different types of storage facilities in terms of how you access your unit. Some will be indoor-facing units, meaning there are interior hallways, and you access your unit through them. Others are outdoor-facing units, meaning the door to your storage unit is outdoors. Both offer pros and cons, so it comes down to personal preference.
Sometimes you’ll find the indoor facing units are smaller, so this is ideal for people who don’t need a lot of space.
4 Does It Offer a Climate Controlled Environment?
Depending on the type of items you plan on storing, you may also want a climate-controlled environment. This means the temperature and humidity are kept at a steady number, never dipping or rising too much. Having a climate-controlled environment can be important when storing items such as wooden furniture, paperwork, books, and clothing.
5 What Is the Security Like at the Storage Facility?
Security should be another top priority, as you want to know your items are safe at all times. Look for a facility that offers round-the-clock security monitoring and requires a key or pin code to access the building.
6 Can You Access Your Unit Any Time You Like?
And speaking of accessing your storage unit, chances are you’ll be doing so during the traditional non-business hours of the week and weekend, so you want to know that you can get in without issue. Many storage facilities offer 24/7 access, making it highly convenient for renters. The last thing you want to worry about is the hours of operation when you’re trying to get into your storage unit.
7 A Storage Unit Gives You the Luxury of Additional Space
A storage unit is all about giving you the luxury of additional space in your home so you can better organize. Whether you need it for a few weeks, months, or years, they can be a smart solution.
