Renting a storage unit for the first time isn’t as unnerving as it may initially seem. In fact, depending on the self storage company, it can be quite easy. Moreover, if you’re prepared with some questions and you have done your research, the rental process can even be smoother. Self storage facilities offer a variety of storage solutions including indoor and outdoor storage, climate controlled storage units and vehicle storage. If you know ahead of time what you want to store, how long you’ll need to store and how much space you need to store your items, the renting process will be easier. This will also help you come up with a list of questions to ask your storage professionals.
There are many determining factors to consider before renting a storage unit, including storage unit size, pricing and security. When researching a storage facility, ask for a tour of the grounds in order to get a better understanding of the security and access to the facility. Look for the storage facility’s video surveillance systems and make sure that the facility is clean, well-lit and gated. This will also allow you to see the different types and sizes of storage units available at the facility.
How much does it cost to rent a storage unit space?
The next step is to ask how much it costs to rent a storage unit space. Storage unit pricing will vary depending on storage unit size and type. At the time of rental, also ask the storage specialist about any discounts that might apply to your rental. Most facilities offer first-time rental discounts, military discounts and, in some cases, discounts for long term storage.
As a new renter, you should find out the types of payment accepted and the lease terms for renting a storage unit. Get to know what type of payment the facility accepts, such as cash, check or credit card. Most storage facilities also offer online payments. Find out from the storage manager how to set up an online account while you’re finishing up the details of the storage unit rental. Look for storage companies that offer mobile apps for paying and managing your account via mobile phone.
What do you need to rent a storage unit?
Storage facilities ask for certain documents at the time of storage including a valid photo ID, current contact information and proof of insurance. It’s important to ask if the storage facility offers storage insurance at the time of rental in order to save you the time and hassle of having to determine if your homeowner’s insurance covers your stored items. Also, find out the gate hours versus the office hours, and details about any other special amenities the facility has for customers.
Packing for storage unit rentals
After renting a storage unit, it’s time to make sure that the items that you’re storing are properly prepared for storage. Following basic packing tips will help keep your items protected while they’re in storage. Once a box has been packed and securely sealed with packing tape, make sure every box is labelled before placing in storage. Make an inventory list based on your box labelling system. Take apart bed frames and tables that can be disassembled to maximise space in your storage unit.
When placing items in your storage unit, organise them so there’s an aisle down the middle to the back of the storage unit. This will enable you to navigate the space more efficiently. Put large appliances and electronics towards the back. Put frequently needed items toward the front of the storage unit for easy access. If you’re going for a long term rental, it’s a good idea to check the items in your storage unit every few months to make sure nothing has shifted in those particularly packed units. That would also be a good time to rotate any seasonal items from the back to the front of the storage unit.
Consider renting a storage unit in a self storage facility near you.