When renting a storage unit, there are several things you need to keep in mind. The minimum requirements for renting a storage unit include having a photo ID and purchasing mandatory insurance coverage. Although there is a wide range of storage unit types and sizes available, you can usually save a lot of money by comparing quotes from several local storage companies.
Here is a list of things you might find helpful when renting a storage unit.
1. The key to finding good self-storage is knowing what to look for.
A safe and secure storage unit is one of the most important factors to consider when renting a self-storage unit, but you should also consider the following factors:
- Accessibility: Is the facility accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including weekends? Make sure you can access your goods at the right time when you need them the most.
- Security: You need to employ locks, video surveillance, in-person surveillance, and security gates or doors to ensure the safety of your priceless possessions.
- Price: Be sure to ask for specials and online discounts. Also, note any price variations in your contract to ensure you get the best deal possible.
- Location: There is no doubt that a facility near a city will be more convenient, but it may also be more expensive. Depending on how often you need to access your unit, you should balance convenience with price when selecting a storage unit. Search for a unit near your place. You are lucky if you live in Kentucky, as Louisville storage units are available at affordable pricing.
- Availability: Make sure your storage facility has an available unit of a certain size or type if you are looking for a certain size or type of unit.
- Reviews: It’s always helpful to hear the opinions of current and former clients. It is a good idea to knock any self-storage facility off your list if it has rude staff, robbery reports, and one-star reviews.
2. What are the requirements for renting a storage unit?
To rent a storage unit, you must present a valid, government-issued form of identification with your rental agreement. Identification options include:
- Driver’s license
- State ID
- Passport
- Military ID
As part of the storage unit contract or agreement, you will be required to sign the document and follow whatever rules are outlined.
3. How is self-storage cost calculated?
Depending on the size of the storage unit and how long you plan on using it, you will end up paying different prices for your storage unit. In many self-storage facilities, you can sign up for a month-to-month contract, but if you can commit to a longer term, you may be able to receive a discount.
It is also important to remember that availability affects pricing as well. If most of the nearby storage facilities are fully booked, you can expect to pay a higher rate. Similarly, if there are a lot of vacant units in a town, you can also find some bargains.
4. Can I rent a week-long storage unit?
A storage unit can usually be rented for a maximum of one week, but this is not always the case. There is usually a minimum contract length of one month for most storage facilities. Nevertheless, if you compare quotes from a few nearby companies, you are likely to be able to save some money.
5. Do you require a climate-controlled storage facility?
Climate control is important for all your belongings, but clothing and furniture are especially vulnerable to mold and mildew. Store your most valuable possessions in climate-controlled storage units that maintain temperatures between 50 and 85 degrees year-round to protect them against extreme heat, cold, and humidity.
You can protect your goods from damage by investing in climate-controlled storage units, which generally cost more than standard storage units.
The following items should be stored in climate-controlled environments:
- Antiques
- Artwork
- Clothing
- Electronics
- Household appliances
- Instruments
- Photos
- Stamps
- Wooden and leather furniture
6. Can you work in a storage facility?
Keep your storage unit out of your office, regardless of how tempting it may be. Having a storage unit as a place of residence or work is illegal and against your lease agreements. However, you can store business-related files and goods in your unit.
7. Can you do car repairs in a storage facility?
Most reputable storage companies won’t allow you to run your own auto body shop because hazardous and flammable chemicals are prohibited. Furthermore, the lack of electricity in storage units may make it difficult to fix a car inside.
However, there are a number of top self-storage companies that also offer vehicle storage. If you need a safe place to park your ride while you’re on a long trip or if you want to stash a vintage hot rod, these self-storage units can come in handy.
8. How do you maximize storage space?
Is it possible to rent a smaller storage unit if you pack your belongings more efficiently. Knowing how to pack is one of the most effective ways to save money on storage units.
- Stack your belongings. A storage unit typically has a high ceiling. Fill the space to the top with stackable bins and furniture.
- Disassemble heavy furniture. It is bulky furniture that can be stacked and stored in less space by dissembling parts.
- Fill it up. Don’t let hollow spaces remain empty. Maximize the space in your dresser or wardrobe by filling it with smaller items.
- Leave an aisle open. Blocking your way is the last thing you want to do when you need something from your storage unit. Make sure you leave enough space for your goods to be easily accessed.
9. What can/can’t you store in a storage unit?
The purpose of storage units is to store household and business goods such as furniture, files, and clothing. They are unsuitable for handling toxic, hazardous, or live substances. Here are a few things you shouldn’t store:
- Combustibles or flammables
- Hazardous material
- An item or food that attracts insects
- Living beings (e.g., trees, animals, people)
10. Do storage units require insurance?
Storage units require insurance. It varies, however, from company to company what’s covered and how much it costs. In addition to self-storage insurance provided by top-tier storage facilities, you can also use your insurance policy. In general, insurance protects against damage caused by fire, vandalism, or theft.
11. What should you do if someone breaks into your storage unit?
It doesn’t matter what security features your storage facility has; thefts still happen. When your items are stolen from a storage unit, you cannot make an insurance claim unless you purchased a policy before placing them there.
Unless the facility was negligent (in other words, the company staff left a gate or door unlocked), you will likely be left without a trail. When you discover something is missing and you are insured, make a claim immediately.
Conclusion
It’s a great idea to rent a self-storage unit if you don’t have enough space to store your belongings. Before renting a storage unit, you should understand what you’re getting into, whether you’re moving, renovating, or need more space. Knowing details like your accessibility, pricing, location, and safety are important before renting a storage unit.