What to expect when renting a storage unit

If you are renting a storage unit for the first time, you may be wondering what the process involves.

If you are moving, downsizing, or just running out of space at home, renting a self storage unit is an easy, flexible, and great option when you want to keep your possessions organised and secure.

Understanding what to expect when renting a storage unit helps you to be prepared, make informed decisions, and avoid undue stress.

Modern self-storage is simple, secure, and designed for your convenience. However, not all self-storage facilities are operated the same. Knowing what is included and what access is provided, will help you choose the most effective storage solution for your requirements.

Finding the right facility.

The first step in renting a storage unit is to select a suitable self-storage unit. Take a little time to research your local options, compare costs, and view reviews.

A good storage company should have clean facilities, strong security and knowledgeable staff for answering questions.

Many storage facilities offer units of different sizes, so think about what size storage unit you need. If you are storing furniture, seasonal items or boxes etc, measure these before making your rental arrangement. Renting a unit that is too big will then cost money for wasted space, while a unit too small could be difficult to fit everything in a secure manner.

Beginning your Rental

The rental of a storage unit is an easy process once you have selected the storage facility. Most accept a reservation either on the internet or at the facility.

You will be required to produce identification, sign a lease, and you will have to pay.

The lease usually specifies things such as the time you have access, terms of payment, and what you can put in storage. Be sure to read these carefully. Most storage places do not allow foodstuffs, combustibles, or hazardous items. If in doubt about anything, ask before moving in.

There are usually short-term and long-term rentals available. In general, self storage places are flexible, so if you need to extend your rental (that is, your new home is not ready), you may be able to do so.

Some companies will give better rates for rental for a longer period of time, so if you know you will need the facilities for a number of months, ask about them.

Getting Into Your Unit

Once you have leased your storage place, you can generally begin using your facilities at once. And most storage places are very generous with their hours of business, and some have 24 hour access, all depending on their security factors.

You will be given an access number, a key, or a card for getting into the premises and for unlocking your storage room. Always find out beforehand just exactly when the premises are opened and closed. This lets you know just when you can expect to get access to the facilities.

If the storage room you rent has limited access, this is not a bad thing. The limited access means that in general, the office is manned, watched and secure and this is good security and protects your possessions.

How the Units Look

When you arrive, expect to see a variety of designs and sizes in the storage units. Some of them are indoors, reachable through passageways, while others are drive-up units accessible right from outside your door for easy loading and unloading.

The inside of the unit will be clean, dry and safe. Many storage companies offer some desirable features and amenities such as climate controlled units, video cameras for security, and gates to pass through upon entry. These things are designed for the security of your possessions both from theft and loss due to damage and from deteriorating due to environmental change, such as humidity or extreme temperature change.

If you have things of great value, or something sensitive, such as papers of some kinds, electronics or your business products, you should inquire about a temperature controlled self storage unit. These are designed to protect your goods from moisture or heat, and will keep them in excellent shape.

How to Move Your Goods In

Once you have your access numbers, you can begin the move to get your goods into your unit. Most of the storage facilities will provide you with either trolleys or carts to assist you in your move.

The drive up units are especially easy to move items directly from your vehicle to the storage area, saving you both time and trouble.

When you pack your goods, put the heavier boxes and larger furniture type things in the bottom and pack the lighter items on the top. Leave walk through spaces between several stacks so that it is easier to reach what you want later.

Make sure you label all the goods clearly, because this will save you considerable time when you want to find certain items later on. If you need access to your storage unit often, ensure vital items are stored at the front. This will prevent you having to unpack the entire unit each time you need to access it.

Security and Peace of Mind

Security is among the primary concerns for anyone renting storage space for personal possessions and the modern storage facilities take security very seriously.

Storage units have CCTV, secure fencing, coded gates and on-site staff who monitor the facilities.

Certain self storage providers have an individual alarm for each unit, providing additional peace of mind. If you are storing expensive equipment or items of sentimental value, always check with the facility to see how secure they are before signing any contract.

Insurance is another aspect to consider. Some storage firms will require you to secure your items whilst in storage. You can either take out insurance through them or provide evidence of your coverage. If you have insurance, this means that in the event of anything unfortunate happening, you will be protected financially.

Costs and Payments

The costs incurred in the hire of a storage unit will depend on size, location and the duration of the contract. Storage facilities in urban areas tend to be higher priced than rural locations as there is a greater demand.

Most self storage companies normally operate on a monthly contract, some may though offer weekly or long term durations. Payment is usually taken automatically by credit/debit card or direct debit arrangement.

Certain storage facilities may require a refundable deposit for the keys or locks that will be provided. This will be returned once the storage unit has been vacated and left in clean condition. It is always important to keep a record of your rental agreement and a copy of any receipts for your records.

Ending the Rental

Ending a storage contract is often quite a simple matter if you wish to end your agreement.

Usually with most firms, only short notice is required, often between one and fourteen days. Simply empty the storage unit of all items to leave it vacant and in clean condition. After returning the key or access card, the storage company will close your account.

If you have paid in advance, check to see if you are entitled to a refund for any unused period of the contract. Certain storage facilities may give such refunds but this is subject to individual policy.