When it comes to self storage, there’s so many great options to choose from. So how can you choose the right facility that will suit your needs?
There might be a few things to look for if you’re in the market for looking for a safe, clean place to store your valuable things.
Here is 7 ways to choose the right self storage facility:
1. Location
It’s pretty obvious that the location of your storage facility is an important factor. Generally speaking, you’d want to choose a facility that is close by to where you currently live, or if you’re moving homes, then close to where you’re going to be. Although sometimes it may actually be worth travelling that little extra depending on what a certain facility is offering. If the closest storage units to you seem like they have no security measures in place, steep prices and not enough options, a couple miles extra of a drive will definitely be worth your while.
2. Customer Service
Give some of the storage facilities you’re considering a call, or even stop by and pay close attention to the interactions you have with them. Any good business runs on the foundation of great managers and staff members. You’ll know pretty quickly if they believe in their business and the products their selling. Great customer service assistants will not only answer any questions you have, but will ask you great questions so they can help you in the best way possible. Don’t settle for an average customer service experience. One day you’re going to need it!
3. Prices
Lots of buying decisions will hinge on the price of a product, it’s that simple. Do your research, keep an eye on who has a competitive price for what you need. Price won’t be everything, it never is, but make sure you’re getting your money’s worth. Every storage facility should be doing their own research to stay on top and have competitive prices. Take advantage of the information that’s available at your fingertips and find a bargain! Pay special attention to what’s generally included in the price, any first month specials and details like prorated move ins might save you quite a few dollars.
4. Cleanliness is next to Godliness
The last thing you want is to move into a storage unit, and come back a few months later to find some critter has made its sweet little home amongst all the boxes of your grandmother’s china you never use. If you get a chance, make an effort to stop by a facility and you should be able to get a quick idea on whether or not they are maintaining their grounds well. Otherwise, Yelp is a very handy tool. Read up on some reviews and see if anyone has made any complaints in this regard. Stay away from places like this! Any good facility will have means to control pests.
5. Security
Security is of huge importance considering you’re storing valuable things, expecting them to still be there when you need them. Choose a facility that has some sort of gated entry system. Make sure they have other sources of security like cameras, well lit areas, and even coded/swipe card access areas. Unfortunately break ins can still happen with all these security measures in place, so insurance can be a great option and sometimes required if you have valuables going into your unit.
6. Accessibility (aka. 24/7 premises)
You want to be able to get your stuff when you need it. If this is a high priority for you, find a facility that allows 24/7 access to its tenants.
7. Options
You’re not always going to need a 10x30 storage unit. Sometimes all you need is a 5x10. So be sure to know how much storage you’re going to need, and then find a facility that has options that will suit you. There’s no point paying for storage space you’ll likely not make the most of.
Keep an eye out for these 7 key factors and you’ll be sure to find yourself in a facility that meets your individual needs. It’s worth doing the research to find out which facility will work the best for and with you to give you that extra peace of mind and assurance that your valuables are in the right place. When you find the right place, it will be completely worth every cent.
Store smart everyone!
