Renting a storage unit can be an excellent solution for people who need extra space to store their belongings. Whether moving, decluttering, or needing a place to store items, a storage unit can give you a spare room.
However, there are several factors you should consider when renting storage space. This article discusses some of them.
Type Of Storage
You can rent two types of storage units: full-service and self-storage. Knowing them can help you identify which type best fits your needs.
Full-Service Storage Unit
A full-service storage unit is a complete package for storing your items. You don’t have to bring your items to the storage unit; the company will pick them up from your home.
A full-service storage unit can provide you with the convenience you need. You can focus on preparing your items rather than worrying about how to drive them for storage.
Self-Storage Unit
When you get a self-storage unit, you must drive to the facility and store everything yourself. Alternatively, portable storage pods are available. It’s where you rent a storage unit and plait on your property. You can pay monthly for a pod space, as the arrangement is usually temporary. Portable storage pods are perfect when you’re doing house renovations.
Location
When renting a storage unit, you need to prioritize its location. You first need to identify what’s the purpose of your rental. Would it be to move to a new location or renovate your home?
If you’re moving to a new location, you must look for a storage unit between your current and new home. It’ll allow you to access your storage unit whenever you need to quickly. You can decide if you’d like your unit space to be nearer to your new or current home, depending on how often you’ll use it.
If you’re renting during home renovation, looking for a unit near your home is best. It’ll allow you to store and retrieve your items quickly once your renovation ends.
Size
You can usually rent storage units in three sizes: small, medium, and large. A small storage unit can go from 20 to 25 square feet. A medium storage unit can be 75 to 100 square feet. A large storage unit is typically 200 to 300 square feet. With these size options, you should be able to identify which dimensions you should go with.
You can rent medium or large storage spaces if you’re storing furniture. However, a small storage space suffices if you plan to keep just a few personal items.
Security
Your storage unit facility should practice strict security measures. You don’t want to lose valuable items or have strangers access your unit. You should check if the storage unit facility has the following:
- 24-hour video surveillance
- individual unit alarms
- bright lighting
- perimeter fencing
- passcode entry
- roaming guards
These factors can ensure that your valuable items are well-protected. You can confirm with the storage unit facility what security measures they practice.
Cost
Of course, cost plays an essential role in choosing a storage unit. When renting a storage unit during a house renovation, selecting an affordable option is preferable. Since you’ll only use the unit briefly, focusing your budget on renovation rather than storage space is wise.
If you plan to rent long term, you can ask the storage unit facility if they offer discounts. Some facilities provide long-term discounts for clients renting for years. You can pre-pay your unit and get it for a lower price.
Accessibility
You must confirm who can only access your storage unit. You can ask the facility if they’ll collect names for authorized people or if anyone with the key can access it.
You should also ask when you can access your unit. Some can provide 24/7 service, while others only work for specific hours. If time is essential for you, you should confirm the availability.
Maintenance
When you store your items inside the unit, you expect them to be in the same condition as how you store them. You don’t want them to develop molds or be damaged by insects or rodents. Ideally, the storage unit facility should practice good maintenance for their space.
You can confirm with the facility what maintenance they perform for their units. It can be sealing doors and regular cleaning of public areas. They may practice climate and pest control. You can visit the facility to see its condition before signing a contract.
Takeaway
Renting a storage unit isn’t cheap. You must choose one that fits your needs. You first need to determine what you need the storage unit for. Then, you can decide where you want it, how big, and how much you’re willing to pay. If you keep in mind the things discussed above, you’ll be able to rent an affordable unit that solves your storage problems.
