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What is a self-storage company? Things need to consider before renting a storage unit

by Innov8tiv.com

The self-storage unit concept is not new at all. Previously, warehouses had been a great choice for industrial users to manage their stuff. In this article, you will learn about self-storage unit basics, types of self-storage units, and few tips for choosing the storage facility.

Self-storage? Who need it?

Self-storage is also termed as a mini storage and self-service storage. It typically comprises of lockers, rooms, containers, and maybe outdoor spaces as well. These spaces are also referred to as storage units. They are rented on a short-term basis. Most business owners get on rent these services to declutter their office spaces. Also, students living in small apartments on sharing require the storage outlet to manage their belongings properly..

The self-storage industry is more in demand in the western world where there are plenty of businesses as well as international students studying over there. 

How does it work?

The tenant may get storage units on monthly rent and sometimes for a longer period (depends upon the policies of the specific service provider). These storage units are restricted to storing household items only. They are not mean to be used for the residence at all. They are commonly used for storing inventory.

Many storage unit providers in the UK provide locks, boxes, and other packaging supplies to assist tenants in packing goods safely. Few companies offer truck rentals as well as part of their services.

Many storage facilities provide insurance to tenants. Sometimes lessor is covered by the tenants own insurance policy.

Rented space is usually secured with the tenant’s lock. A self-storage unit is different from a typical warehouse concept in a way that a self-storage facility doesn’t have casual access to the contents of space. Therefore, the storage outlet is not liable for any theft.

Storage unit provider never intervenes in terms of possession of the kept facility unless the client becomes a defaulter. Also, if the client doesn’t lock the facility then the company may do it by themself.

Reason to Use Self Storage Facility:

Following are the core reasons to choose a self-storage facility:

  1. You want to clear clutter to store some extra stuff within the premises.
  2. You have to move temporarily and you don’t want to carry your belongings with you.
  3. Being a business owner you need to store inventory that is rarely used.

Families need storage space when their kid comes from college or grandparents move to a new home. You may save money by utilizing the space of a self-storage unit rather than moving to a new house. The trend of using self-storage services has increased in recent years.

Various Types of Self Storage Units:

There are many types of self-storage units and there comes a variety of sizes as well. Few of them are discussed below:

Drive-up self-storage units vs indoor self-storage units:

Drive-up access storage units are traditional self-storage units. These units can be further categorized in outdoor buildings. They consist of roll-up doors which are accessible from outside. On the other hand, Indoor storage units are found inside a multi-story building.

Non-climate vs climate-controlled storage units:

Climate-controlled storage units provide heating and cooling systems to maintain steady air temperature and humidity levels. temperature-controlled storage units are important to store items in extreme weather conditions areas. On the contrary, non-climate controlled doesn’t offer any temperature controlling mechanisms.

Storage Unit Sizes:

Storage units are available in different sizes in all self-storage companies. A standard storage unit offers a ceiling-high of 8 inches. However, the Most common sizes are:

  • 10×10
  • 10×15
  • 5×5
  • 5×10
  • 5×15

Larger storage units like 10*20 and 10*40 are designated for vehicle storage. However, you may request a custom size unit to the storage outlet vendor.

Tips for Choosing Self storage Facility:

There are certain tips for you when you are deciding on a self-storage facility:

You should choose a self-storage location near to you. Other factors which you should consider are alarming systems, video surveillance systems, outdoor lighting, and the most important sharp fencing to avoid theft activities.

Before choosing any facility, you should thoroughly read its reviews and also consult the business bureau to check whether any complaints are there against the facility.

You should research pricing for at least 3 near storage service providers.

You should also check out if your landlord’s insurance policy covers your belongings when they are in a self-storage unit. You will then be able to buy insurance from self-storage location facilities from individual insurers.

Last but not least you should buy a secure lock to protect your possessions.

How much does it cost to rent self-storage:

The cost of a self-storage unit is dependent on the location and size of the unit. The average price to get a storage unit was $87.89 according to last year’s stats.

Moreover, the average cost of a 5*5 unit was estimated at $45.18 last year. Similarly. A 10*20 unit was costing around $134.58.

Prices also vary according to region. For example, San Francisco may cost cheaper storage units than new york.

Also, keep in mind that climate-controlled storage units are 30 to 50 percent more expensive than non-climate controlled units.

Storage unit companies revise their rates time to time. So, you should keep your eyes on pricing strategy to avoid getting out of budget.

You may also buy additional self-storage insurance to protect the value of the stored items in case of theft or damage. Many storage unit companies ask tenants to insure belongings but you can also show active home policy to the service provider.

Storage unit company may auction off the belongings in case of nonpayment by the client. So, make sure to keep paying on time.

Wrapping Up!

Whichever type or size you choose for a self-storage unit. You should consider the factors like location of the storage facility and the pricing revision strategy. Ultimately, these are the reasons which cause clients to suffer.

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