Renting a storage unit requires careful consideration ahead of time. There are many different types of storage units available and many different requirement specifications. Many units are climate controlled to protect valuables that can deteriorate over time, such as fur coats or valuable books. There are many aspects to investigate before you rent a storage unit.
Before renting a storage unit, you should research the storage standards for the particular unit. Questions to ask include where the storage unit is situated. Is it in a safe area of town? Is it accessible 24 hours, and how much notice does the company need before you can retrieve one or all of your belongings? Does the company perform frequent pest control procedures on the storage unit? Are the units guarded, or is there a closed circuit television facility recording the units?
When renting a storage unit, you may want to make a list of the items you are thinking of storing and decide whether you really need them or not. Since many people naturally hold on to things they no longer need or use, you may want to conduct a quick assessment before sending it off to storage. Those things you find aren't worth keeping can be donated or sold at a yard sale.
The amount of things you have will determine the size of the storage unit you'll need, and the size of the storage unit will determine how much you'll have to pay for the storage unit. Therefore, it may be best to try to minimize the amount you store.
Another thing to consider is how long you plan on storing your things. When getting price quotes, you may want to ask for the costs for both long and short term rentals. If you are moving and need storage for an interim period, you may want to ask your moving company if they have their own storage units.
With the exception of food, almost anything can be stored in a storage unit, from a second car to a family boat. Really, the only limit to the size of the item to be stored is your budget.
One of the most important considerations to remember when renting a storage unit is insurance. The storage unit may have its own insurance, or it may be covered under your home insurance policy. You should look into that before selecting a company to go with. Finally, make sure that once you have obtained your storage unit, you do not keep piling junk into it. In the end, you may have to rent another storage unit to take care of the clutter in your original unit!
