How to choose a storage unit?
Storage units are more and more popular nowadays because it has a lot of advantages. Choose a storage unit and make your life easier and your home decluttered. But, what are all the pros of using it and why you should consider renting one? Here are some examples why:
- A safe way to keep all your belongings at one place during remodeling or moving.
- If you are moving a lot because of work, renting a storage unit is a cheap solution for all your household items.
- Long-term storages will help you organize your home and to keep it clean and open. Living room storage will not work all the time.
- An average person spends about 6 weeks every year looking for things at home. Time management is one of the biggest pros. If you choose a storage unit and organize it, you will have more time for yourself.
No matter what the reason is for renting it, your storage must be perfect and safe. That is why you should learn how to pick the best. This quick guide may help to have the right space.
Choose the best storage facility for you and your items will be safe
Tips on how to choose a storage unit
Tips are essential especially if you never had a storage place. One little mistake can cost a lot, unfortunately. By following these steps, you should follow these steps below. It is a little homework which will help you have the perfect place to store stuff. Our advice is to check everything twice and to recognize red flags. Your items can be missing or damaged, and that is the last thing you want.
Calculate how many items you have to store
Picking the right size in the most important step. If you choose a storage unit which is too small, you cannot put all the items inside and it will not be organized. On the other hand, if you pick a larger space, it will cost more. Yes, some items can be stacked on top of each other, but not all of them. If you need space for a couple of days, for example, renting storage for the moving day, it does not have to be fully organized. But, as a long-term storage facility, it should be. Some standard sizes are:
- Small – 5’x5′ or 5’x10′
- Medium – 7’x10′ or 10’x10
- Large – 10’x15′ or 10’x20′
For how long you will need a storage unit?
This step is important because if you need to store items for a long period of time, you should pay attention to temperature, ventilation, humidity, access, etc. It is ok to pack boxes close to each other without ventilation if they will be there for a short period. Summarize the process and you will know what kind of a storage unit you will need.
Check the reviews of a storage company
Use the internet (google, yelp, etc) to find out everything about a storage company. But beware, because reliable companies have both, good and bad reviews (more good than bad). If the company you want to hire have only good comments, it is one of the red flags. It is not easy to give someone all your precious belongings, so check everything twice.
Visit it and check a security system
Before you decide it is storage for you, visit it. Check what type of a security system they have (alarm, cameras, human security, good locks, fire alarm system, etc). While you are there ask questions.
- Ask to see the actual unit you will rent.
- Are there special prices or discounts?
- What will happen if you are late with a payment, and for how long you can be late?
- Read their insurance policy and what is covered.
- Can you open your storage any time you want?
Be open asking all the questions you should before renting a storage
Types of storage units
Storage units are not the same, they come in different condition and types, of course. If you want to protect musical instruments when storing, make sure you choose a climate-controlled storage unit because some of the instruments and equipment is sensitive to high and low temperatures. Depending on what you will store and for how long, you will choose a type according to that.
The pros of indoor storage units are that the weather will not be an issue, and it is more secured. Do not worry and dust or sand, sun, or rain. They are cheaper than outdoor units, but accessibility is better in outdoor type. You can drive right in front of the door of the unit and it will be much easier to put items inside.
Make a list of your priorities and you will know what type of a unit you will need
How to transport all your household items?
If you cannot transport your items or you need a comprehensive pick-up service package for transportation, it should not be a big problem. You can move all your household items by yourself or you can hire a company to do it instead of you, of course.
After unloading items for a van or truck, try to put your boxes by some pattern. Also, make sure you have an inventory list. Many people forget what they have inside after a while. You can create shelves, make more space, and keep the middle empty and clean.
When you need to choose a storage unit, it is a big deal. All of your household items or office supplies and equipment will be there. Especially if you need it for business (to store goods you are selling). Why store everything in your house or in the office when there is a simple solution? Pick the best and keep your stuff safe.