A storage unit is a space in a facility where you store your belongings. People rent these spaces to temporarily or permanently store things that they do not have the space for in their homes. Whatever the requirements, you must do your research and ensure that you make the most out of these spaces. Factors like types and size of the units, cost, and availability should be considered before you choose the right unit.

How do storage units work?

Before you begin looking up storage units for sale, you should get acquainted with the fundamentals of one. You can choose from two kinds of storage facilities—full-service and self-storage.

Full-service storage facilities are designed to streamline and simplify the experience by providing clients with complete services like arranging pick-up for belongings and delivering them to the facility. This saves customers the hassle of transporting the stuff themselves. These facilities are more expensive than self-storage facilities, and they offer many more services to help consumers. On the other hand, self-storage facilities are more popular options. Here, you would deliver the belongings and store them yourself in the unit. This is an ideal option if you are looking for cheap storage units.

Additionally, you need to pick the right storage facility based on the duration, i.e., for how long you would need the space.

If I need a unit for a short period, self-storage provides excellent protection for personal belongings without the exorbitant cost of renting a full-service storage facility.

Types of storage units

Indoor units: These units are usually climate-controlled spaces to protect items from the outdoor environment. These are designed for fragile and valuable items like documents you want to preserve, a collection of artifacts, vintage items, or other collectibles you want to protect from moisture.

Outdoor units: These are locked and covered like indoor units; however, the units come with drive-up access, making them ideal for those who must frequently visit their self-storage facility to drop off or retrieve things. Further, such storage spaces are used for large items.

Vehicle storage: Are you planning a long trip or simply need a safe spot for your vehicle? Many self-storage facilities include protected and unprotected parking areas for automobile storage, as well as spaces large enough to park your car alongside your things for additional protection.

Wine storage: For wine enthusiasts who do not have a dedicated wine cellar or basement space, a wine storage unit is ideal. Try looking for a storage facility that offers insulated units that protect the bottles from light and maintain the right temperature and humidity to preserve the liquid.

Factors to consider

You can find a number of facilities online by looking up “storage units near me”. However, before you begin shortlisting the spaces, consider the following aspects to pick the best unit for you:

Accessibility: You should consider checking if the facility offers 24×7 access so that you can visit it whenever you want to retrieve or drop something off.
Security: Check if the facility offers safety features like locks, video monitoring, in-person surveillance, and security gates or doors to protect your valuables.

Pricing: Ask about specials and online discounts and opt for cheap storage units if you need the space for a short period, say while moving homes.

Availability: See if the facility has the kind of unit, space, and services that you require.

Location: While a facility closer to you may be more convenient, it may also be more expensive. However, if you intend to make frequent visits, having a storage facility that is near you would be ideal.

Reviews: It is important to check ratings and reviews left by previous and existing customers. Keep an eye out for unhelpful employees, reports of theft or robbery, and one-star ratings.

Things you need to rent a unit?

Facilities usually ask for identity proof, so be ready to furnish a legitimate, government-issued form of identification. Here are some common options:

Driving license

Passport

Military ID

You also need to sign a storage unit agreement.

Cost

The cost of storage units may vary depending on the size of the space and how long you intend to keep your belongings. Usually, self-storage sites offer month-to-month contracts, but getting a contract for a longer period may get you discounted rates. Availability has an impact on pricing as well. If most units are already booked, you may have to spend more to get a unit. However, if the facility has a lot of unoccupied units, you might get great deals.

A storage unit is a great facility to rent or own whether you need it to hold stuff while you clean your house, renovate it, or are moving. It is important to find a space that is the most convenient, fits your budget, and offers adequate protection to your belongings.