Before you rent a self-storage unit, there are various things you should know. Such include what you can and cannot store, what you need to bring, ways to find the suitable unit, what determines the size of the unit, how much it will cost you, etc. knowing these things will ensure you get the right unit, your items will be safe, and you will afford to keep your items there. Knowing if you need to purchase self-storage insurance is also crucial. This article will briefly elaborate on what you need to know before renting a self-storage unit.
- What to Look For
Finding a safe and secure storage unit should be the priority. There are many safe storage units in your local you can choose from. So, it would help if you looked for aspects like:
- Accessibility
- Customer reviews
- Location
- Pricing
- Security
- Availability
- Things That Affect the Price
Storage units don’t have fixed prices. The cost of renting the space will depend on how long you intend to rent the unit, the size of unit, whether you want climate-controlled, location, availability, etc. Therefore, it is recommendable to collect several estimates to know how much you will pay.
- What You Should Bring
Another vital thing you need to know is the things required to rent a unit. You will need to identify yourself by providing your national ID or passport. You can also choose other options like military ID, state ID, or driver’s license. You will also need to sign an agreement contract that dictates the price and the things you have agreed on. The company will give you rule that you need to follow.
- What You Can Store and Not Store in the Unit
Storage companies have rules on what you are allowed and not allowed to store in the units. Items like clothes, furniture, and files are allowed. However, you will need to find another place to keep things like explosives and flammable and toxic materials. You are also not allowed to store living things like animals. Some companies might also not allow you to hold plants.
- Whether You Need Insurance
Self-storage insurance is vital to ensure your items will be safe and compensated in case of damage. Insurance protects your valuables from fire, smoke, vandalism, theft, etc.
- How to Save Space
As mentioned earlier, the size of your chosen unit affects the cost. Knowing how to minimize space may be best by packing your items efficiently may be best. You can stack the boxes to the ceiling to use the entire room. Another way to save space is to disassemble furniture and fill hollow spaces like dressers. However, as much as you want to save space, ensure you also leave room to access the items at the back.
- Whether You Need Climate Control
Climate-controlled units are a bit costlier than standard ones. You can choose to keep all your belongings in such a unit to keep them safe from mold. However, some items that must be stored in a climate-controlled unit include:
- Electronics
- Clothes
- Photos
- Leather and wooden furniture
- Paintwork
- Antiques
In Conclusion,
You ought to know these crucial things before renting the storage unit. You need to know what to bring, what you can and cannot store, and how to keep your items safe. The most crucial thing is finding a reliable storage facility you can trust.
