13 Things You Should Know Before You Rent a Self-Storage Unit

Are you considering renting a self-storage unit for the first time? Whether you need extra space for your child’s toy chest that you’ve held onto or for storing furniture after downsizing, it’s essential to understand the ins and outs of the storage industry. In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know before signing that dotted line. From usage rules to unit pricing, we’ve got you covered. Renting a storage unit can be convenient, but being well-informed ensures a smooth experience. So, before you make any decisions, take a few moments to familiarize yourself with the essential things you should know. Let’s dive in and make your self-storage journey hassle-free. SecureSpace Self Storage is here to guide you on your storage journey and make it as convenient as possible. Let’s get started!

Things to Know Before Renting a Storage Unit

Before renting a storage unit, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with some key information. Self-storage facilities offer a convenient solution for securely storing your personal, household, or business items, whether for the short or long term.

Whether you’re going through a relocation, a small business owner requiring additional space for file storage, a homeowner awaiting the completion of construction work, or a college student seeking storage during summer break, self-storage units can meet your needs.

To ensure you make the best choice, here is a comprehensive guide for first-time renters, addressing common questions about self-storage units. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to select the most suitable option.

What are the things to look for in a self-storage unit?

There are several important factors to consider when looking for a self-storage unit. Here are some things to look for:

Location: Choose a storage facility that is conveniently located near your home or place of business. This will make it easier for you to access your belongings whenever needed.
Size: Determine the required storage space based on the items you plan to store. Consider both the floor area and the vertical space. Many facilities offer a variety of unit sizes to accommodate different needs.
Security: Ensure that the storage facility has proper security measures in place. Look for features such as surveillance cameras, secure access controls, well-lit premises, and security personnel. These measures help protect your belongings from theft and damage.
Cleanliness: Visit the storage facility in person to assess its cleanliness. A well-maintained facility indicates that the management takes care of the premises, and your belongings are less likely to be affected by pests or environmental factors.
Climate control: If you store sensitive items like electronics, wooden furniture, or valuable documents, consider renting a climate-controlled unit. Climate control helps maintain a consistent temperature and humidity level, protecting your belongings from extreme heat, cold, or moisture.
Accessibility: Check the facility’s operating hours and access policies. Ensure that the facility offers convenient access hours that fit your schedule. Some facilities provide 24/7 access, while others may have restricted hours.
Insurance options: Inquire about insurance options for your stored items. While the storage facility may have general insurance coverage, it is advisable to have additional insurance to protect your belongings in case of unforeseen events like fire, theft, or natural disasters.
Reviews and reputation: Look for customer reviews and ratings of the storage facility to gauge the experiences of previous renters. Positive reviews indicate a well-managed facility and reliable service.
Pricing and rental terms: Consider the rental cost and payment terms. Compare prices among different storage facilities and evaluate the value you receive for the price. Review the rental contract carefully to understand the terms and conditions, including any hidden fees or penalties.
Customer service: Interact with the facility’s staff to assess their helpfulness and responsiveness. The friendly and knowledgeable staff can assist you throughout your storage experience and address any concerns or issues that may arise.

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What do I need to provide to start renting a storage unit?

To start renting a storage unit, you will typically need to provide the following information and documents:

Driver’s license
State ID
Passport
Military ID

In addition to providing one of the forms mentioned above of identification, you must read and sign a storage unit agreement or contract carefully. It is strongly advised that you thoroughly review the entire document, familiarizing yourself with all its stipulations and guidelines.

How are self-storage unit costs determined?

The cost of self-storage units is determined based on various factors. One key factor is the unit size, with larger units costing more than smaller ones. Additionally, the availability of storage units in a particular area can impact the price, with limited availability leading to higher costs. The duration for which you require storage also influences the cost, as longer durations often result in higher monthly fees.

Several other factors contribute to the pricing of storage units. For instance, indoor units generally have different price points than outdoor ones. Units with convenient drive-up access might also come at a higher cost. The storage facility’s location also plays a role, with prices typically higher in metropolitan areas and more affordable in quieter suburbs. Requiring climate control to protect your belongings from temperature and humidity can also affect costs.

How do you transport your belongings to a storage unit?

You have the option to transfer your possessions to your storage unit using the trunk of your truck. However, it is recommended that you make use of the complimentary truck rentals provided by certain storage companies. Renting a truck allows you to transport large and cumbersome items in one trip, minimizing the time and stress typically associated with moving belongings into or out of a storage facility.

Is it legal to work in a storage unit?

Working in a storage unit as an office or residence is against the law and constitutes a breach of the lease agreement. Using your storage unit solely for storing files and other business-related materials is permissible. Nonetheless, several storage facilities offer on-site business centers where tenants can work, send packages, and utilize printing services.

What are the available storage unit size variations?

Storage units are available in various sizes to accommodate different needs. When selecting a storage unit, estimating the amount of space required for your belongings is essential. Choosing a size slightly larger than what you think you need is generally recommended to ensure you have enough room. This approach minimizes the risk of running out of storage space. Here are some of the storage unit sizes:

5×5: This storage unit is comparable to a small closet. It offers enough space to accommodate a small mattress set, a dresser, and several medium-sized boxes.
5×10: With the dimensions of a small walk-in closet, the 5×10 unit is suitable for storing the belongings of a mid-sized bedroom.
5×15: This storage unit mirrors a large walk-in closet and provides ample space for the contents of a single bedroom. It can hold items such as a dresser, a queen-sized bed, golf clubs, a television set, and several medium to large-sized boxes.
10×10: The 10×10 unit is widely popular and equivalent to half of a standard one-car garage. It can comfortably accommodate the furnishings of an entire family room or two full bedrooms.
10×15: With the capacity to hold the contents of three full bedrooms, the 10×15 unit offers ample storage space.
10×20: Similar in size to a standard one-car garage, the 10×20 unit can store the furnishings of a multi-bedroom house. It can easily accommodate items like a couch, refrigerator, dining room set, and several large boxes.
10×30: This storage unit is as spacious as a one-and-a-half-car garage. It is suitable for storing the furnishings of a three to five-bedroom house.

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How do you get your stuff to a storage unit?

If you need to maximize the trunk space in your Mazda, we have a helpful suggestion for you. Take advantage of the complimentary truck rental services offered by certain self-storage companies. Renting a truck will allow you to conveniently transport all your large and bulky items in a single trip, significantly reducing the time and stress associated with moving items into or out of your storage unit.

Select self-storage companies like CubeSmart and Life Storage have partnered with truck rental services to provide this added convenience at specific locations. Additionally, if you opt for storage with U-Haul, you can easily rent a truck for a day to assist with your moving needs.

Which items can you store in a storage unit?

Storage units are designed to accommodate various personal, business, and household items, including clothing, documents, furniture, appliances, and bicycles. However, certain items should not be stored in a storage unit, such as:

Hazardous materials
Flammable or combustible substances
Perishable food items or items that may attract pests
Living beings (humans, animals, plants)
Weapons, explosives, or stolen goods
Wet or strongly scented items

It’s essential to adhere to these restrictions to ensure the safety of your belongings and comply with the storage company’s policies.

Do you need a climate-controlled storage unit?

Properly safeguarding your belongings is crucial, particularly when preserving items like clothing and furniture, which are susceptible to the growth of mold and mildew. These specialized units maintain a consistent temperature range of approximately 50 to 85 degrees throughout the year.

While climate-controlled storage units typically entail higher costs than standard storage options, the added expense is worthwhile. By investing in climate-controlled storage, you can ensure that your belongings are shielded from potential damage caused by drastic changes in temperature and humidity.

To provide you with a better understanding, here is a list of items that we strongly advise placing in climate-controlled storage:

Wooden and leather furniture
Clothing
Photographs
Artwork
Electronics
Musical instruments
Stamp collections
Household appliances
Antiques

By selecting climate-controlled storage, you’ll provide optimal protection and preservation for these valuable possessions, granting you peace of mind and maintaining their quality over time.

Is it possible to rent a storage unit for a week?

The availability of renting a storage unit for a week depends on the specific company you approach. While some storage companies offer flexible short-term contracts, allowing you to rent units every week, it’s important to note that these options often come with higher daily rates compared to monthly agreements. Generally, most storage companies offer monthly rental agreements without any minimum stay or long-term commitment.

Do you need insurance coverage to store goods in a storage unit?

Determining whether you need insurance coverage for your stored belongings depends on the storage company’s policies. It’s advisable to inquire about insurance options provided by your chosen company. Some storage companies may require customers to have an insurance plan in place before signing a contract, ensuring coverage for the stored items. However, other companies may allow customers to decide whether they want insurance based on the value of the items being stored.

How can you save space in a storage unit?

Efficient packing techniques can help you maximize the space in your storage unit and potentially rent a smaller unit. Here are some tips to save space:

Disassemble bulky furniture: Remove legs from tables, chairs, and beds to stack them and reduce the space they occupy.
Stack items: Utilize stackable bins and arrange items to fill the storage unit vertically, taking advantage of the high ceilings.
Leave an aisle: Create a clear pathway within the unit to access your stored items easily.
Utilize furniture: Fill wardrobes and dressers with smaller items to optimize space.
Use space-saving accessories: Utilize vacuum-sealed bags for clothing and bedding to minimize their volume.

How do you save space in a storage unit?

Here are some practical strategies to optimize space utilization in a storage unit, allowing you to rent a smaller and more cost-effective unit potentially:

Utilize vertical space: Storage units often have high ceilings, so make the most of this vertical space. Opt for stackable bins or containers and arrange them to maximize the unit’s height.
Disassemble bulky furniture: Disassemble large furniture items by removing chairs and table legs. This allows for more efficient stacking and utilization of space.
Fill hollow spaces: Avoid leaving any hollow spaces empty. Utilize the interior of dressers, wardrobes, or other furniture by filling them with smaller items. This helps to optimize space and reduces wasted areas.
Create an accessible aisle: To avoid the hassle of unloading the entire storage unit when you need to retrieve something, ensure you leave a designated aisle or pathway. This allows for easy access to your belongings without disturbing the entire arrangement.

By implementing these tried-and-true packing techniques, you can maximize the storage unit’s space and save on rental costs.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is a storage unit?

A storage unit is a rented space typically used to store personal belongings, household items, business inventory, or other possessions. It provides a secure and convenient solution for individuals or businesses that require extra storage space.

How does a storage unit work?

Renting a storage unit involves signing a contract or agreement with a storage facility. The facility provides you with a designated space to store your belongings. You can access your storage unit during the facility’s operating hours, usually using a personalized access code or key. You are responsible for organizing and securing your items within the unit.

What sizes do storage units come in?

Storage units come in various sizes to accommodate different needs. Common sizes range from small lockers or closets (typically 5×5 feet) to larger units (e.g., 10×10 feet, 10×20 feet, or even larger). Your size depends on the quantity and size of the items you plan to store.

How much does it cost to rent a storage unit?

The cost of a storage unit depends on several factors, including the location, size, and amenities the storage facility offers. Prices can vary significantly based on geographic location and demand. Generally, smaller units cost less than larger ones. On average, monthly rental fees for storage units can range from around $50 to several hundred dollars.

How long can I rent a storage unit?

Storage units can be rented on a short-term or long-term basis, depending on your needs and the policies of the storage facility. Some facilities offer month-to-month rentals, allowing you to rent the unit for as long as you need it, while others may require a minimum rental period or offer discounts for longer commitments.

What items are prohibited from storage units?

While policies may vary among storage facilities, certain items are typically prohibited due to safety or legal reasons. These may include perishable food items, flammable or hazardous materials, live animals, illegal substances, firearms, explosives, and other dangerous or illegal items. Reviewing the facility’s guidelines and restrictions before renting a storage unit is crucial.

Can I access my storage unit anytime?

Most storage facilities have specific operating hours to access your unit. However, some facilities may offer 24-hour access, allowing you to retrieve or store items whenever needed. Check with the storage facility regarding their access policies before renting.

Do storage units have climate control?

Not all storage units have climate control. Climate-controlled units maintain a consistent temperature and humidity level, which helps protect sensitive items from extreme heat, cold, or moisture. These units are typically more expensive than standard units. If you have valuable or delicate items that may be susceptible to temperature or humidity fluctuations, it’s recommended to consider a climate-controlled unit.

Can I insure the items in my storage unit?

Yes, you can typically obtain insurance coverage for the items stored in your unit. While some storage facilities may offer their own insurance options, you may also have the choice to use your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy to cover stored items. It’s advisable to check with your insurance provider to understand the coverage options and any specific requirements for storage unit insurance.

Are self-storage units secure?

Reputable storage facilities employ various security measures, including surveillance cameras, secure locks, and restricted access. However, choosing a facility with a strong security system is advisable to ensure your belongings’ safety.

Can I share a storage unit with someone else?

Yes, it’s possible to share a storage unit with another person. However, it’s important to communicate clearly and establish guidelines regarding access, payment, and responsibility for the stored items.

Can I change the size of my storage unit after renting it?

In many cases, storage facilities allow you to change the size of your unit if needed. However, this depends on the facility’s availability of different unit sizes. It’s best to discuss any potential changes with the facility management.

What happens if I forget to pay my storage unit rent?

If you forget to pay your storage unit rent, the facility may impose late fees or take other actions as outlined in the rental agreement. Eventually, if payment is not made, the facility may auction off the unit’s contents to recover unpaid rent.

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