What to Look for when Selecting a Self Storage Unit

What to Look for when Selecting a Self Storage Unit

Many people are benefiting from renting a self storage unit that can hold their possessions in a short-term or long term basis. The security and accessibility of these units are the reasons why this industry is growing. The basic function of these storage units are to provide a secure place for people to store their goods. The SSA (Self Storage Association), the industry's not-for-profit lobby organization, defines it as "the term applied to facilities offering rental on a month-to-month basis where the tenant applies his lock and has sole access to his unit."

What to look for when choosing a storage unit

To find a right storage unit will depend on several factors as the following:

• Unit size. Evaluate the amount of the things you need to put in a storage. Make a plan on how you are going to stack or file them to use the space efficiently. Make a measurement and inventory before choosing a right storage.

• Climate control unit. If you are storing valuable and irreplaceable items like antiques and heirloom, make sure to choose a storage unit that has climate control. Constant temperature and humidity will keep your items free from damage.

• Location and accessibility. Though you don't have to visit your storage often, it is still good to choose a place that is close to you. So, when you need to check or get something, it will not take so much of your time. A high crime area is not a good place to have your storage unit too. Though the management assure safety and security, it is not good to take any chances.

• Cost. The monthly rent should also be considered. Is the value of the things you are storing worth the monthly rent? It is also good to compare the cost from other storage facility.

• Referrals from other users. You may want to consider the reviews of other users. You can ask some of your friends and acquaintances for referrals. Their positive reviews and experience are more reliable than a thousand words of the management.  

• Unit features. The SSA said that self storage unit have these popular features:

1. Outdoor parking for storing RVs and boats
2. Automatic entry gates with keypad-computerized access
3. Surveillance cameras and monitoring stations
4. Alarms on individual storage units
5. Drive-up loading docks with direct access to outside units
6. Elevators for multi-storied facilities
7. Complimentary use of dollies and furniture carts
8. Ample space to move around in the facility. If you have a larger vehicle, make sure to have enough room to maneuver inside the facility.

           Checking these features will help narrowing your options. You may not find all of these features    but make sure that you are choosing a unit that can provide maximum safety and security.

Your storage unit is another room away from home. So, make sure to choose a right storage unit to keep your possessions safe. Try to visit several storage facility and make comparisons. Planning ahead will give you an edge to find the right storage unit for you.