Want to de-clutter your home or apartment? Did something unexpected come up? Whatever the reason may be, you want to find a self storage unit suited for you and your budget. This article will give you an idea of what to look for and what questions to ask in order for you to make an informed decision and choose a storage location that works well for you.
The first step is to determine the unit size that you will need. Storage companies offer a wide variety of sizes that range from closet-sized to the size of a two-car garage. Speaking with a storage specialist within the company is the best way to determine the size of storage space you need. There are also companies that offer a storage calculator on their website. This can be used as a visual aid to better determine what you will need. You want to have someone that will look out for your best interests by providing the size that is most appropriate for what you will be storing. They will be able to give you a tour of the storage facility and show you these recommended sizes. Another tip is to keep in mind the ceiling height for stacking, as you can save money by renting a smaller storage space.
You also may want a storage unit that is heated and cooled. This will help keep the heat and humidity from damaging items that you are keeping in the storage unit. There are some companies that offer this as a courtesy while some will make you pay an additional fee, so be sure to ask about that when renting a unit.
Everyone wants to find a place that they are comfortable with. These are some questions you can ask the storage specialist:
- Are the entry and exit points gated?
- Is there a camera surveillance system in place at this storage facility?
- Is there an alarm system tied to my specific unit?
- Will I have my own personal code for access to my unit?
- Is the area surrounding the facility well lit during overnight hours?
Having the correct answers to these questions should put your mind at ease when it comes to the protection and care of your items. Another important question to ask is if there are any pest control issues at the location. You will want to store at a clean and modern facility to minimize the risk of these incidents.
Your wallet is just as important to you as your belongings. You want to know what you’re paying for. Make sure to ask for special discounts associated with the size of space you want to rent and to be informed of the monthly rate that you will be paying. Also, make sure that you have no hidden costs associated with renting a unit. Some hidden fees that companies may charge you include:
- Will you have to purchase your own lock? There are storage companies that will provide this lock at no cost to you.
- Is insurance a requirement for storing your items? Many companies require it and will add that to your monthly payment.
- How long is the lease term? Some companies are month-to-month, while others will make you rent for a certain period of time.
- Are there any administration fees that are added on to your first month’s rent?
- Is there an additional cost for heating and cooling of your space?
Another perk to look for is the use of a free moving truck to help facilitate the move into your storage unit. Having this offered to you makes your move easier, more convenient, and saves you money. Also, on the subject of convenience, most companies will have packing supplies available for purchase in the office. Some of the time, these items are offered at a discount to tenants, so it’s a good idea to ask. The goal of any storage company is to be a one-stop shop in order to make your life just a little bit easier.
The last thing to look for is how you are treated as a customer by the storage company and the staff. Do you feel like a valued customer; one treated with respect and professionalism? Are all of your questions answered directly and honestly? Some storage companies will also have call centers that are available to answer your questions or concerns before or after office hours as an added benefit of customer service.
Keep all of these things in mind when you’re looking at Mini Price Storage or other storage companies as options to store your items. Never be afraid to ask questions. As they say, knowledge is power.
By: Jason Wright, Self Storage Expert