If it’s your first time renting a storage unit, determining which option to go for can be a challenge. Not only will you need to factor in the size and quantity of your belongings, but you’ll also need to consider how long you plan to store them and whether they’re susceptible to damage. While storage solutions provide an excellent way to declutter and save space in your home, it’s important that you select the right type of unit to ensure your things are well protected.
At Ace Moving & Warehousing, we offer a range of storage solutions to suit the needs of just about everyone. We also deeply understand the storage process and what you need to consider to select the right unit for your needs. We’ve outlined five of the most critical considerations you need to know below.
Storage Unit Size
The vast majority of storage facilities offer multiple sizes of units for rent. Before you choose a storage solution, you’ll need to know what size unit will best accommodate the items you intend to store. You should also consider whether you believe you may put additional items in storage down the road and how much extra size you might need for those objects.
To determine what size unit will best fit your things, take an inventory of everything you plan to store, as well as any items you might add in the future. Additionally, consider whether any of the items you want to store can be stacked or whether you can add shelving to maximize vertical space. Once you have an inventory on hand, take your list to storage facilities in your area to inquire about which size unit is best for your needs.
Type of Storage Unit
When it comes to storage solutions, you generally have two options: full service or self-storage. Before you start shopping around for the unit that best meets your needs, here’s what you need to know about both types:
● Self-storage. With self-storage, you’re responsible for delivering your items to the unit and arranging them inside. If you need to take items out of the unit, you’ll also need to find the time to go pick them up. Self-storage customers are also responsible for documenting their own belongings and keeping an inventory of what’s inside the unit. In terms of size options, self-storage units range from very small to areas large enough to accommodate vehicles or boats.
● Full-service storage. With full-service storage, you’ll get a “valet style” storage experience in which the storage company both picks up and returns your belongings to you. Many of these companies also photo document the belongings you place in storage and maintain an inventory of those items throughout their duration in storage. Depending on the company, you may also be able to schedule additional pickups and dropoffs right from your smartphone.
Because full-service storage solutions offer extra perks, they tend to be considerably more expensive than self-storage units. Most customers in need of storage for their household items opt for self-storage, both for the price point and ease of access.
Do Your Belongings Need Climate Control?
Certain items that you intend to store may require humidity control, which you’ll only get if you opt for a climate-controlled storage unit. Take an inventory of your items — do you plan to store any of the following things?
● Wood, leather, metal, wicker, or upholstered furniture
● Photographs and artwork
● Electronics or other forms of media, such as CDs, DVDs, records, etc.
● Important documents
● Expensive clothing
● Musical instruments
● Antiques or collectible items
Generally, if you’re planning to store any items that may be vulnerable to moisture- or temperature-related damage, it’s best to opt for a climate-controlled unit. Though these units are typically more expensive, the extra protection for your belongings is well worth the additional cost.
Security Measures
When shopping around for a storage solution, always inquire about the security measures the facility takes to ensure your belongings remain protected. Ideally, you should opt for a unit that offers the following safeguards:
● 24/7 video surveillance
● Round-the-clock security monitoring
● Inventory checkups
● Secure and fully sealed doors
● Secure, gated access to the storage units
● Individual access codes for each customer
It’s also a good idea to review your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance to determine whether your policy extends coverage to items in storage. If it doesn’t inquire with the facility operator about how much it will cost to add insurance coverage to your unit rental.
Hours of Operation
Last but certainly not least, consider each storage facility’s hours of operation. If you know you’ll be pulling things out of storage regularly, you’ll want easy access to your stuff. But if you choose a facility that’s only open during the hours when you’re at work, you’ll have a tough time accessing your things. Many storage solutions offer 24/7 gated access to their units, so if you have a busy schedule (and a 24/7 facility isn’t too far from your home) try to opt for one of those.
Need Storage Solutions? Find Them at Ace Moving & Warehousing
Whether you’re trying to declutter or you’re planning a move, at Ace Moving & Warehousing, we offer a storage solution to meet your needs. Our climate-controlled units are under 24/7 video monitoring and we also perform regular inspections and inventory assessments. To learn more about our storage options or to request a quick quote, call our Minneapolis office today at 763-755-2045 or contact us online.