How to choose a self storage facility

If you are planning to use self storage, one of the first things you will need to decide is which facility to choose. You will want somewhere that is safe, easy to reach and fairly priced. In this guide, we will walk you through the key things to check before you sign up so that you do not regret your choice later.

We will look at location, security, unit size, contracts and a few extra features that can make the whole experience easier. Use this as your checklist when comparing different options.

Location and Access

The location of the facility is often more important than people realise. If you plan to visit often, you do not want to spend half an hour each way travelling to your unit. A site that is close to your home, workplace or main routes will save you both time and transport costs.

Depending on your needs, access hours could matter as well. Some self storage facilities offer round-the-clock entry, while others lock up outside of business hours. If you need to get into your unit in the evening or at weekends, choose a place that allows that and if you don't, pick a facility that has regular working hours.

It is also worth checking how easy it is to load and unload your items. Typically, items that go into storage are big and bulky, so if the storage units have wide doors, level loading areas and units that are near the entrance, it can save you a lot of effort.

Security and Safety Features

Security is often the deciding factor when people choose a storage facility. Self storage units are safe, but that depends on the facility that you choose to store with. When it comes to your valuables, you want to be confident that your belongings will be well-protected. The best facilities combine several layers of security.

Look for CCTV that runs all day and covers all key areas, not just the front gate. Entry should be controlled by a personal code, an electronic fob or another system that limits access to customers only. The unit doors themselves should be strong and well-sealed.

Fire safety is just as important when hiring a storage unit, and a reliable facility will have smoke detectors, alarms and regular inspection routines. When visiting a storage facility, keep an eye out for fire extinguishers or sprinkler systems on site.

You should also pay attention to general upkeep. A building that is clean, well-lit and dry is usually run by a company that takes safety seriously. Damp corridors, cracked walls or broken locks are a warning sign to look elsewhere as your items may not be safe here.

Size, Layout and Environmental Conditions

Choosing the right unit size is another common challenge, especially for first-time storage users. If you overestimate the amount of storage that you need, then you will pay for space you do not use.

If you underestimate, you will end up squeezing things in and risk damaging them, which is something we have seen customers do in the past. To get around this, walk through your list of items, including beds, wardrobes, bikes and boxes, and select a unit that will hold them comfortably with a little extra space to move around.

You also need to consider the layout. A taller unit can be useful if you plan to stack boxes. Whereas if you are storing items such as electronics, wooden furniture or artwork, you might want a storage unit that offers climate control or at least good ventilation to prevent damp and mildew from forming in the unit and wrecking your items.

Something that people may not think about is checking whether the self storage facility is in a flood-risk area or asking about any history of leaks.

Hidden Costs of self storage

Do not choose a storage facility based only on the headline monthly price. Always read the contract in full.  Self storage is a competitive market, and storage companies offer low introductory offers. Prices can then change, so be sure to read your contract in full.

When reading your contract, check the length of the rental term, the notice period if you want to leave, and whether you can change to a bigger or smaller unit if your needs change. Many places offer flexible monthly agreements, but some will lock you in for longer, so be sure to read that small print; if you don't, it could cost you.

You should also ask what is included in the price. Some companies charge extra for things such as insurance, locks, pest control or after-hours access. Other self storage companies include these in the standard rate.

Services and Extras That Make Life Easier

The best storage facilities often provide more than just a room to put your things in. Some facilities have trolleys and loading bays to help with heavy items. Other storage companies sell boxes, packing materials and locks on site, which can save you a trip and can make your job a lot easier.

If you need to store temperature-sensitive items or business stock, ask your storage facility whether they offer climate-controlled units. Some storage sites even provide delivery acceptance or business support services.

Customer service is also important when using a storage facility, so look for a facility with good reviews, some of which mention friendly staff or ones that deal quickly with problems, which is usually worth paying a little more for.

How to Make Your Final Decision on Storage

Once you have narrowed your search to two or three facilities, compare them side by side on the things that matter most to you, things like location, security, unit size, contract terms, price and customer support are often what you need to consider.

You should think about practical scenarios. If you needed to get something late at night or if there was a leak in the building, which site would make you feel more confident?