Self storage units are convenient and flexible options available
for short, medium, and long term rentals. Whether you are
downsizing and moving to a smaller home, or even if you need to
store a larger item like a boat or a piano, a self storage unit can
satisfy your needs.
Benefits of self storage
- Save money: If you simply can't afford
to move to a larger home to house all your belongings, renting a
month-to-month storage unit will overall help you save money.
Many companies will allow you to pay on a monthly basis over the
short or long term. To save the most money, look for a facility
that does not charge 'in and out' fees to access your
items.
- Security: Many facilities will have
computerised gate entry equipped with your own personal access
code. In addition, your belongings will be protected with digital
video surveillance 24 hours a day, 7 days per week.
Look for a well-lit facility with high fencing that will provide
you with your own padlock and key for secure access to your unit
space.
- Convenience: Most residential storage
facilities are open seven days per week with professional support
available. You will be able to enter your secure unit at any time
if you need to load and unload boxes or access your
belongings.
Types of storage units
There are many different types of storage units for hire to
choose from. If you're looking for a very short term solution, a
large warehouse may be the best choice since it is both affordable
and convenient.
However, a warehouse is not ideal to house your belongings over
the long term. A warehouse may not be climate controlled, and your
belongings will be packed next to the belongings of other
customers.
For medium and long term storing, it is best to rent a private
unit that is equipped with your own padlock, key, and gate code for
entry. Most private units provide advanced protection for furniture
and valuables since they are climate controlled.
Bear in mind that climate controlled units can be more
expensive, but they will ensure that wood furniture and other
belongings are not corroded with mould or mildew or warped due to
humidity.
Whether or not you need a climate controlled unit will depend on
the time of year that you are storing your belongings, as well as
how long your belongings will be stored.
If you live in a region that has low humidity and only need to
store your possessions for a medium amount of time, paying for
climate control may not be necessary.
However, for long term storing in a high humidity area, climate
control is important to protect musical instruments, electronics,
and other valuables that can be easily damaged.
Top moving tip
For short term storing, look for a storage facility that will
rent on a month-to-month contract. For medium to long term storing,
choose a rental facility that will offer you a discount on your
rates for signing a contract for six months to a year.