Moving has its own set of stresses. But there are ways to make a move less stressful, such as renting a storage unit. But it pays to do your research before signing on the dotted line and paying your first month’s rental fee. We are discussing some things to consider when renting a storage unit.

Things to Consider When Renting a Storage Unit
1. How Much Space Do You Need?
If you think that the amount of stuff you need to store will end up leaving a lot of empty space in the size of the storage unit you’ll have to rent, you have other options. There are storage companies that only charge you for the space used.
If you need to figure out how much space you will actually need to help you make a decision on the type of storage company to use, try this tip. Once you have all your boxes packed, move everything to an open area of your home and stage it like you would in a storage unit. Then measure the length and width of the space it takes up to figure out how much space your items will need.
2. Are You Worried About Temperature and Humidity Damaging Your Items?
If you rent a self-storage unit that’s not insulated, the items you store will be subjected to temperature extremes and humidity, which can be damaging. Fluctuations in temperature from hot to cold and back again, as well as humidity levels, can damage furniture and other items, such as electronics, artwork, and photos. If damage is a concern, you may want to seriously consider renting a climate-controlled storage space.
3. How Long Will You Need the Storage Space?
This is an important consideration because you don’t want to be locked into a longer lease than you need. If you’re only using the storage unit temporarily while you move, you won’t need a long-term lease. Some storage companies offer month-to-month leases, which do not require you to be locked into a contract. Some companies may also offer storage deals that give you heavily discounted storage for the first month by signing up for six months. Shop around to get the best deal.
4. Would Pickup and Delivery Be Helpful?
Moving can be what seems like an overwhelming task — especially if you have years of accumulation in places such as closets, cabinets, drawers, attics, basements, and garages. Instead of undertaking all of the moving by yourself, why not consider a storage company that will pick up your packed boxes and furniture and move it to the storage facility for you? Then, when you need your stuff back, the company can deliver it to your home.
5. Will You Need Insurance?
As a general rule, standard renters and homeowners insurance policies do cover items you store in a storage unit. However, the extent and details of the coverage will vary from insurance company to insurance company. Contact your insurance agent to find out if you’re covered.

6. Does the Facility Have On-Site Security?
When you’re storing anything of value, it’s important that the storage facility has measures in place to protect your things. Otherwise, thieves will likely come calling. When contacting different storage facilities to ask about what they offer, ask about their security. Do they have cameras installed and an alarm system? Is there an on-site security guard? If the storage company seems to be lacking in security, look elsewhere.
7. Does the Storage Company Have Good Reviews?
Entrusting your personal belongings to a storage company means that you should have done the legwork to discover whether or not they are deserving of your business. This means researching online to find out what others have to say about their own experiences. Take the time to read the reviews and make note of any negative remarks that customers make.
8. Is the Storage Company Conveniently Located?
If you choose a storage company that will pick up and deliver your items, this is a non-issue. However, if you choose a storage company that will require you to store your own goods and pick them up, then this is an important consideration. Do you really want to have to sit in heavy traffic or drive an hour to access your things just because you got a good deal?
2 Comments
I like that you considered insulation in getting a self storage unit. There are things in our home that we know can age differently during summer or winter. We will need a storage expert to help us on which unit to choose since some of them are paintings by our son.
Thanks for reminding me that I need to ask the facility about their security measures before trusting them. I need a place for my collectibles and I certainly don’t want to be a victim of theft in a place where my stuff should be secured. I’ll be sure to ask this question and choose the best storage unit where my personal belongings would be safe.