When you’ve accumulated a lot of things you need to keep but you’re short on storage space, that’s when a storage unit or storage facility comes in handy. Square footage is usually hard to get by, especially when you live in the city. It’s normal to feel limited with the space that you have. This becomes even truer as your family grows and you start to have more belongings.
While the concept of storage units is straightforward to understand, not all of them are created equally. Some storage units that naturally reign supreme over others. This article presents six factors to consider when choosing a storage unit. These should be helpful for you to narrow down your options.
1. Size
The first factor on this list is one of the most important. It could be one of the most challenging as well. Measuring the closest estimate of the space you need to store your belongings may be hard. If you rent one that’s too big, you’re wasting money. If it’s too small, then your storage space still won’t meet its intended purpose. Thus, the decision will be yours to make as differing needs also require different sizes of storage units.
To get the closest estimate regarding the space you need, create an inventory of the items you need to store. Ask the personnel of the storage facility for advice, too. They can help you decide on the best size for your specific needs.
2. Duration
Different storage facilities have their respective terms and conditions when renting their storage facility. Others will allow you to rent monthly. Some may offer a minimum rental period, like six months or a year. So, be sure to ask about this. Then, weigh your decision according to your circumstances.
For instance, your purpose can be temporary when you’re only renting a storage space in between a move. Hence, a monthly arrangement is your best bet. If you’re looking more towards the long term, though, like when you need the extra space, then opting for a yearly contract is your best choice. You may even ask for a long-term tenant rate or discount if you opt for the latter.
3. Good Security
Security isn’t one for you to haggle with. You wouldn’t want to place your things in a storage facility with a bad reputation for theft. Always check the reviews and feedback of other clients who have also rented a storage space with that same company. By doing so, you can be assured of its reputation when it comes to safety.
Remember, good storage space doesn’t end with a good lock. Other facets of safety should also be present, like:
- It should be well lit.
- It should have a gate with easy access.
- It should have a 24/7 monitoring system in place.
4. Location
The location here is a matter of personal preference. Choose a storage facility that’s closest to where you live if you need to access the items you’ve stored frequently.
If this isn’t the case, such as when you’re storing items you may not use for a long time (e.g., travel gear, party furniture, baby and toddler gear), then location shouldn’t be an issue. As long as you could conveniently drive to the location from your residence, then you’re good with any storage facility that fits your needs.
5. Cost
The cost should be another vital factor you have to consider. This is the reason why it’s important to compare quotes from different facilities. That way, you can go for the cheapest one that still offers competitive service, security, and other features.
6. Climate-Controlled Storage
While not a necessity, it’s a major plus if you secured a climate-controlled storage unit. This type of storage ensures your belongings remain unscathed from extreme weather conditions. Some damages are as follows:
- Changing humidity can cause some furniture to crack, warp, and expand.
- Plastics may bend or crack in the heat.
- Stored paper products can warp or lose quality.
If you can afford to pay for this add-on, then choose this option. You’ll want to keep your belongings as protected as possible.
Conclusion
A storage unit or storage facility is one of the most effective solutions to giving you that extra space you need for your things. Whether you’re on the move, or you’ve accumulated things through the years, renting a storage facility will always be a good decision. It’s a secure place to keep your items when you don’t have enough space to store them where you reside. Let this list guide your decision on which one fits your need best.
Thanks to canningvalestorageunits.com.au for consulting.
