Six Things You Should Know Before Moving Your Things Into Storage
If you are thinking about moving some of your things into storage, don’t leap without a parachute. All storage units are not equal, but the one you select must meet your needs. Consider these tips for ensuring that you protect and safeguard your belongings in a storage facility.
1. Do Your Research First
The facility you choose should not be left as a last-minute decision before you move. The Washington Post suggests that you should perform research on the storage facility, and visit multiple locations before deciding on one. Comparing the prices and quality of the services offered for each unit, and considering available upgrades are important. Read reviews online to hear more about the experiences of other people who have used the facility as well.
2. Consider the Level of Security On-Site
There are many storage sites available, but all of them do not have the same level of security. Ask the company if there are security guards on the premises to patrol the area. Advanced alarm systems and locks placed on storage units can also provide an additional level of comfort. Some storage facilities also offer 24-hour surveillance of the property.
3. Determine If Units Are Indoors or Outdoors
Whether your storage unit is outside or inside of the facility matters. Outdoor storage units can be more susceptible to break-ins, and natural disasters that impact the local area. Indoor units can provide a greater feeling of security with restricted access.
MarketWatch also suggests that you should consider the temperature of the storage facility when making a decision. Choosing an outdoor unit can be a poor choice for expensive clothing and electronics that must remain at a certain temperature to avoid damage from extreme cold or heat. Obtaining a climate-controlled unit if available is an excellent option to preserve your most valuable possessions.
4. Ask About Insurance
No matter how airtight your storage facility may be, getting insurance on your possessions is a wise idea. Not all offer it, but you can inquire about insurance on your belongings before you sign up for a storage unit. In case of a catastrophic disaster or burglary, your insurance policy can help you recover monetary losses.
5. Pick an Accessible Facility
If you purchase a storage unit that is difficult to travel to from the new location, you only complicate the task of pick-up later. If you want to grab something out of your storage unit at any time, you must be familiar with the proper hours to do it so that you can access your stuff when you need to. Consider the facility hours on weekends and holidays as well, to avoid being locked out of your own storage unit.
6. Calculate the Storage Fees
Before purchasing a storage unit, you should calculate how much it costs. Buying only enough cubic space that you need to store your items is essential to save money. Keep in mind that a storage unit is only offered if you can pay the storage fees.
Many storage fees have a monthly payment schedule that must be adhered to as part of your contract. If you forget or refuse to pay the storage fees, your unit will go into default. After a term period set by the facility, your belongings may be legally sold in an auction. If you have any fear that you may not be able to pay the storage fees in the future, consider purchasing a unit within your price range to avoid the painful loss of possessions later.
Storage units are meant as a temporary solution to safeguard your items during a transition. Before settling on a storage facility in your area, be sure to consider the pros and disadvantages of each provider. Select one that meets your needs and expectations for satisfaction and security.
