It’s hard to believe, but summer is half over. Before you know it you’ll be planning for the start of a new school year and then the holidays with family gatherings and overnight guests. It’s a good time to get your home in order. Is the guest room overflowing? Does the kitchen need an update? Are the living areas crowded with too much furniture? Did you ever think about renting a storage unit as a solution to all of these problems?

Renting a self storage unit is as easy as making a phone call or locating a website and clicking a button. If you don’t know where to begin, the following tips and suggestions will help you organize your ideas, prioritize your needs, and find self storage that is the best fit for you.

Find the Perfect Self Storage Solution

Understand Your Needs

Think about what you’re storing and how long you plan to store these items.

• Make an inventory of all the items you plan to store.
• Identify the items that you might need to access while they are in storage.
• Measure and estimate the collective packing size of your items.
• Account for extra space to provide ventilation and ease of access.

Arrange your belongings for easy access. When storing items for short periods of time, it’s fine to pack everything close together. If you’re storing for a longer time, provide extra space for ventilation and for an aisle so that you can access belongings that you may need regularly.

Decide Whether You Need a Climate-Controlled Unit

Climate-controlled spaces keep the temperature and humidity within a specific range. Whether or not you need a climate-controlled unit depends on the environment in which you’re storing your items. For example, dry climates can cause wood to crack and split, and humid climates can cause mold and mildew. Make your choice based on the value of your belongings and the cost of the unit. Climate-controlled units can be more expensive but well worth the cost over time.

Think About Location

How many times will you need to visit your storage facility? If you’re going to need regular access, a convenient location is important. Be aware that a facility located in the heart of the city will be more expensive than one outside of town. If you don’t need quick access to your items, a facility farther from the city will be less costly.

Curb Appeal is Important

Look for a facility that is clean and well-maintained. You shouldn’t see overgrown landscaping, a weather-worn, outdated building, and trash lying on the grounds. If the property doesn’t look appealing from the outside, you can’t be assured of the safety and security of your possessions.

Consider Size Options

Self-storage units are available in a wide range of sizes and configurations. Naturally, larger units cost more per month, so it’s smart to have an overall idea of how much space you’ll need. You don’t want to pay for extra, unused space unless you’re planning
to store more items over time. Another factor to consider is the design of the space. Some units are narrow but have a lot of vertical space; others are wider with lower ceilings. In some cases, one layout may be preferable.

Storage Facility Cost Can Vary Considerably

Because many storage facilities are independently owned, business owners have the
option of setting their own prices. It’s always smart to shop around because you may be
able to find a better deal by making a few phone calls. Storage companies frequently
offer promotions. If your preferred facility isn’t offering any deals, it pays to ask. You can also mention a competitor’s promotion; the facility of your choice may be willing to match the deal.

Verify Security

Cost should not be your only consideration. You need a reputable company with state-of-the-art security, a variety of customer amenities, and a range of unit sizes that will be a good fit for your needs. Look for video surveillance, perimeter fencing, adequate lighting, and electronic access. You’ll also want a knowledgeable management team that is willing to provide you with answers to your questions, a tour of the property, and a professional level of customer service.

Check Insurance

If you have homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, call your agent to verify that your stored
belongings are covered under your present policy. You may find that your facility must
provide specific security features in order for your items to be covered. If your policy does not
cover off-premises items, you should be able to purchase insurance from your preferred self storage company.

Conclusion

Whatever you do, choose carefully. It’s worth the time and effort to find the facility that is the best fit for your needs. Once you’ve moved your belongings into a unit, it’s highly unlikely that you’ll want to take the time and trouble to switch facilities. Be on the lookout for a self storage business that will work best for you and your treasures.