When you put your belongings in a storage facility, you want a facility that keeps them safe and secure. Plus, you want to choose the right facility when it comes to convenience, accessibility, and policies. Here are three things to look for when choosing the right storage facility to hold your excess belongings for the short or long term.
1. Climate Control
You might not need climate control for your things. It depends on what you're planning to store. Climate control is helpful for items that might warp or rust in an environment with high humidity or for items that might be damaged due to extreme temperatures. If you decide you want climate control, be sure to seek a storage facility that meets your needs.
Climate-controlled storage is often in a single building that has multiple storage units inside. Indoor storage makes it easier to control the temperature and humidity, and it also provides extra security. However, an outdoor storage unit that is similar to a shed with a garage door has the advantage of quick access and parking near the door.
2. Unit Size
Storage facilities usually have a range of sizes you can rent. Unless you're storing just a few things and want a very small unit or you need an extra-large unit for oversized equipment or a vehicle, you can find a unit for your needs at most facilities unless they are already rented.
Choosing the right size is more important than you might think. You'll pay more per month for a larger unit, but sometimes the extra cost is worth it so you can keep your unit organized more easily and have space to move among your things.
3. Accessibility
Accessibility is an important issue sometimes. If you plan to stack your things in a storage unit and not get anything out until the day you move your stuff out of the unit, accessibility might be low on your list of priorities when looking at storage facilities.
If you know you'll need to visit your storage unit regularly to get supplies or drop things off, then you want a unit you can get in when you want. Some facilities provide 24-hour access with the use of a gate and keypad for entry. Others may keep business hours and be a little more difficult to access. You might also want a unit that's near your home so it's convenient to run and get something if you need it.
There are several points to consider when choosing your storage facility, so determine what is the most important to you. You might be willing to give up a facility that's nearby if one a little farther away has better security or climate control.
