Renting a Self Storage Unit for Your Valuables: What You Should Know

Let’s say you’re moving from one location to another or are traveling out of the city or country for a while. In such circumstances, you need to find a temporary storage solution for your valuables. 

This is when you need to consider renting a self storage unit. A self storage unit can keep your belongings safe for as long as you want. However, before you rent one, here are a few things you should know. 

Choosing the Right Size and Type

Before you rush to rent a storage unit, it’s essential to assess your needs. Consider the size of the unit that suits your requirements and the type of items you intend to store. Some of the units are like small closets while others have spaces like large garages. Your choice must be based on the volume of items you need to store. 

According to Bob Vila, storage unit costs range from $20 to $450 per month. The national average storage unit cost is around $240.

Some storage units are climate-controlled. This is particularly beneficial if you’re storing delicate or temperature-sensitive items. If you plan to store valuable items that could be affected by temperature or humidity, investing in a climate-controlled unit will be worth it.

Location Matters

When selecting a self-storage facility, the location should be a significant consideration. In fact, as highlighted by The Lock Up, choosing a self storage unit is all about location and accessibility. 

For instance, let’s say you’ve been living in Hollywood, Florida for a while now. However, you now need to move out as house rent in the area is climbing every year. Unfortunately, you can’t move everything from your house because you’re yet to find a permanent residence wherever you’re going. 

Thus, you find the nearest Hollywood storage units and store all your valuables there. Whenever you need to move something, you move it from the storage unit. 

However, proximity comes at a cost, and storage units in prime locations tend to be more expensive. Therefore, it’s essential to strike a balance between convenience and cost-effectiveness. 

Security is Paramount

As reported by The Acorn, America has recently seen a rise in self-storage theft. Thus, ensuring the safety and security of your chosen storage facility should be a top priority if you want your valuables to be safe. 

Most self-storage facilities offer security features such as gated access, security cameras, and individual locks for units. It’s also wise to inquire about the facility’s security policies and whether they have 24-hour surveillance or on-site personnel.

Apart from external security measures, you should also consider the condition of the storage units themselves. Check for any signs of wear and tear or damage to the unit. A well-maintained unit is less likely to let in pests or the elements. You may want to invest in a sturdy lock for added protection if there’s an option for that. 

Read the Fine Print

Like any rental agreement, it’s crucial to read and understand the terms and conditions of your self-storage contract. Pay attention to factors like rental rates, payment due dates, late fees, and the duration of the lease. Most storage facilities offer both short-term and long-term leasing options, so choose the one that suits your needs. 

Keep in mind that some facilities may offer discounts for long-term commitments. Hence, it’s worth inquiring about any cost-saving opportunities.

Apart from rental terms, learn about the facility’s policies on access hours. Some self-storage facilities have restricted access hours, which could be problematic if you need to retrieve your items outside of those times.

Insurance is Crucial

While self-storage facilities take security measures seriously, accidents and unforeseen events can still occur. Therefore, it’s essential to have insurance coverage for your stored valuables.

As explained on Bankrate, some facilities require you to insure your items before storing them. Others may offer insurance as part of the rental agreement. Unfortunately, this type of item-based insurance may not fully cover the value of your items.

Having proper insurance in place can give you peace of mind knowing that your valuables are financially protected in case of any unexpected incidents.

Organization and Documentation

Once you’ve rented a storage unit and begun storing your valuables, it’s crucial to maintain an organized system. Label your boxes and containers clearly and create an inventory of the items you’ve stored. This will not only help you find things quickly but also serve as a record in case you need to make an insurance claim. 

You may also want to take photographs of your valuable items before storing them. This is especially vital if they have sentimental or monetary value.

Regularly visit your storage unit to ensure that your items remain in good condition. Even though storage units are designed to be secure, they are not entirely immune to issues like pests, mold, or mildew. Periodic check-ins will allow you to address any problems promptly.

Conclusion

Renting a self-storage unit can be an excellent solution for preserving your valuable possessions. This is especially true if you’re storing them for a brief period. With the above considerations in mind, you can make the most of this valuable resource for safeguarding your cherished belongings.

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