Are you looking to rent a storage unit but don’t know where to start?
Every year millions of Americans find themselves in the same predicament. They have more stuff than space but aren’t sure where to begin searching for a storage service.
With over 52,000 storage facilities in the United States alone, your options are plentiful.
The issue:
Storage decisions are often made with price as the primary factor. People find the cheapest storage solution available and ultimately regret their decision. Whether you’re looking for a storage unit in Phoenix or in some other part of the country, picking the right storage service is much more than finding the lowest monthly cost.
This article will take you through the process of finding the perfect storage solution that fits your budget, protects your belongings, and puts your mind at ease.
Table of contents:
- What storage types are there?
- Essential features to look for
- Evaluating storage companies
- Pricing strategies that work
- Mistakes to avoid
What storage types are there?
Storage services are not created equal.
Self-Storage Units
Self-storage is by far the most common type of storage. Renting a storage unit is simple; you pay, they give you a key, and access your items whenever you like.
Facilities have indoor (climate controlled) and outdoor (drive-up access) units. Size options range from small lockers all the way up to garage-sized spaces. Plus, these units are rentable on a month-to-month basis.
Full-Service Storage
Full-service storage companies are in the business of doing everything for you. They come to your home/business, pick up your items, take inventory, store them and deliver what you need.
It’s more expensive but can be extremely convenient if you don’t have the time to make multiple trips to a storage facility.
Portable Storage Containers
You have probably seen them in someone’s driveway. The portable storage container companies like PODS will drop off a container at your location.
You fill it, they store it at their facility or leave it on your property. Portable containers are ideal for moves and home renovations. The downside, you need to have the space to keep the container.
Essential features to look for
Not all storage facilities are created equal, and neither are the units.
Security Features
Your items are likely valuable to you. Security is, therefore, your first and most important priority.
Look for storage facilities with 24/7 video surveillance cameras, individual alarms on units, access control systems, and on-site management. But don’t take their word for it, go see for yourself.
Drive by the facility during the day and evening to see if there is adequate lighting. Check inside to confirm the security features they tout on their website are in place.
Climate Control
Climate control can be a deal-breaker or not, depending on your needs.
Climate-controlled units have consistent temperature and humidity levels maintained. This is key for electronics, wooden furniture, important documents, artwork, and other sensitive items.
Yes, climate control is more expensive. But it’s well worth every penny if it means saving thousands in potential heat/cold/moisture damage.
Accessibility
Accessibility is how easily you can access your belongings.
Facility operating hours and your access to the facility is a major part of this. Frequent access will be easier if the facility is open 24/7 and in a convenient location.
Also consider the size of the loading areas and driveway.
Evaluating storage companies
Choosing the right storage company is just as important as choosing the right unit type.
Research Their Reputation
Online reviews are a great place to start your research, but don’t stop there.
Google reviews, BBB rating, and Yelp all provide insight. Look for trends; are customers consistently praising or complaining about the same aspects of their service?
Visit Multiple Facilities
NEVER rent a storage unit without seeing it first in person.
Check out the cleanliness of the facility, lighting, quality of staff, and unit conditions. Trust your instincts, if something feels off don’t rule it out, keep looking.
Ask the Right Questions
Be thorough and ask questions. Good companies answer them clearly.
What is included in the monthly rent? Are there one-time setup fees? Insurance? What notice is needed to move out?
Pricing strategies that work
Storage pricing is not always what it seems on the surface.
Many companies offer promotional pricing to attract new customers. Advertised rates can be things like “$1 for first month” or “half off for three months”.
Here’s what they don’t tell you:
All promotional rates expire. The question is how much you will pay after the promotion ends.
Calculate True Long-Term Costs
Ask for the regular monthly rate AFTER promotions expire.
Total this up over the period you need the storage space and compare to a facility that has consistent pricing with no promotions. Sometimes the higher initial cost ends up saving you money in the long run.
Consider all Additional Fees
The monthly rent is just the start of the additional fees.
Expect to pay administrative fees, deposits, insurance, and more. Get a breakdown of potential costs before committing to a facility.
Common mistakes to avoid
The easiest way to make the right decision is to learn from other people’s mistakes.
Mistake #1: Choosing Based on Price Alone
The lowest-cost storage service is rarely the best value.
Many people choose a facility that saves them $20 per month only to cost them hundreds in damaged belongings because it lacked climate control and proper security.
Mistake #2: Renting the Wrong Size
Renting too small and upgrading later or too big and wasting money on empty space.
Visit facilities and see the unit sizes in person. Take measurements of the largest items and plan your space. Visualization is a big part of this.
Mistake #3: Not Reading the Contract
Contracts can have vital information on access hours, payment terms, policies.
Pay attention to late payment fees, auction process, and insurance requirements. Ask if there is anything you do not understand before signing.
Mistake #4: Skipping Insurance
The facility does not automatically insure your items.
You have three options; purchase insurance through them, add to your own policy or accept the risk. If your belongings are valuable to you, insurance is worth the cost.
Making your final decision
Now that you have done your research, visited the facilities, and taken notes.
It is time to make your final decision. Create a simple comparison chart with your top three options. Factors to include monthly cost, security features, climate control, access hours, and customer service quality.
The right choice is a balance of these factors that suits your needs and budget.
Time to take action
Finding the right storage service does not have to be a daunting task when you know what to look for.
The self-storage industry continues to grow with market growth expected to reach $83 billion by 2030. Which means more options and improved service for you.
Key takeaways from this guide:
- Security and climate control is worth the extra money if you have valuable items
- Promotional pricing is there to lure you in, look at the true price
- Location is important, the right facility will save you time/money
- Contracts are important, read and understand them
- Visit first, never rent a storage service sight unseen
Take your time making this decision. The right storage solution will give you peace of mind.
Start with a list of your needs, then use this ultimate checklist to evaluate your options. Done correctly, you will find the perfect storage solution and be pleasantly surprised.