If only your parents would perpetually house all of your high school trophies and dance pictures. But if you find that you have a few extra things, especially during a move, a storage unit is a great solution. Whether you’re an experienced storage customer, or new to the process, here are some tips to help guarantee a good experience.
- Location, Location, Location
Real estate agents have it right with this rule. You should think about it when buying a home, and you should think about it when getting a storage unit. Getting a discount for an out-of-the-way place is tempting, but consider how often you’ll need access to your belongings. A long drive may not be worth the savings.
- Contract
You have one for your gym, your apartment, and your phone. The last thing you may want is another long-term contract for a storage unit. No need to fear, most storage facilities allow for month-to-month contracts. Be sure to ask before you move-in.
- One size does not fit all
Yes, storage units vary almost as much as the homes that we live. You may go small and pack every square foot, but it’s going to be frustrating to find things. On the other side, you may want each box to have its own breathing space, but you’ll pay for it. Our Managers can help find the size that will work best for you.
- What type is best for you?
There are three types of storage units.
Drive-up units: These are on the ground floor with roll-up doors for easy loading and unloading and quick access with no need to walk through interior hallways.
Indoor units: These offer a house-like setting, and can be more resistant to dust, humidity, and pests. Many are climate-controlled for sensitive items.
Outdoor units: These are great for storing vehicles, boats, trailers and RVs.
- Maximize space
If you have ever packed a suitcase for a trip and just can’t seem to make everything fit. Be smart about how to use your space. Disassembling large items like beds and tables; stacking chairs seat-to-seat; store long items vertically when possible; pack similarly sized boxes for easy, safe stacking; set boxes on top of dressers; and consider using shelving.
- Camel through the eye of a needle
Scary thought, right? Don’t let it happen to you. Ask about the height and width of the doors that access your storage unit. Most drive-up storage units have large, roll-up doors like a garage, smaller storage units have smaller doors. If you’re storing large items, make sure they will fit in the unit.
- Play it safe
You wouldn’t leave your iPad and your flat screen TV out on your front yard at night; obviously. Choose a storage facility that takes security seriously. Some safety measures to look for:
- Mechanical gates with individualized key codes
- Surveillance cameras
- Good lighting
- Perimeter fencing
- On-site managers
- Easy access
You may only need to get to your snowboard once a year. But, that collection of bowling balls, now those may need a little more love and attention. Be aware that office hours and gate hours may be different.
Office hours:
This is when the office is staffed.
Gate hours:
This is when you can access your storage unit. The hours at our facility are from 6 am to 11 pm.
- Know what is “not” allowed
Some items, like gasoline, hazardous, toxic or biological waste are not allowed inside storage units. To avoid surprises by asking for a list of prohibited items.
- Be covered
Chances are an asteroid won’t hit your storage unit. But, somethings are out of our control. And, it’s your responsibility to make sure that all your belongings are covered. Ask your insurance agent if a storage unit is covered under your existing policy and if not, your storage facility will have a plan for you.