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Self-Storage Guide WhatStorage
At one point or another, we all need storage solutions for our valuables. Whether it’s to keep our items safe while we move house, or a larger area to hold some of the items that won’t fit into the basement or the garage while we renovate. Self-storage is a versatile, flexible and affordable option for all these and many other circumstances.
About Self-Storage
Self storage basically refers to renting out a storage space or unit from a storage company which offers that particular service.
Storage units are available in a wide variety of different sizes, and are usually accessed via a garage-door like entrance.
Safety:
The units are kept safe through superior security mechanisms like built-in or separate locks, and sometimes even a combination of the two. You’ll also have peace of mind knowing that your things are safeguarded by the staff working on the premises, while other security measures like on-site cameras and 24/7 security are also on hand to keep your items safe.
Rates:
You’ll be charged a monthly fee to keep your items in the storage unit, and the amount is typically based on a number of variables, like the size of the unit, its location, the level of quality and service offered, as well as other conveniences like climate control and the level of demand that the facilities have.
Indoor and Outdoor storage:
Generally, there are two types of storage facilities available today. There are outdoor access facilities, which allow you to drive-up and access your storage units from the outside, and then you have indoor storage facilities that can only be accessed from the inside of the premises.
Outdoor access units are a convenient option in that, you’re able to access them from the outside and they’re more affordable when compared to the alternative. Usually in the form of container storage. However, this option won’t give you access to extras like climate control.
Indoor storage units are a more secure option and come with the added benefit of climate control and other perks. However, they’re only accessible from the inside, and your particular unit may even be housed in a distant area of the warehouse that requires elevator access, making it a tad bit challenging to move your stuff in and out of the unit.
What is self-storage typically used for?
The storage industry continues to grow each year, as more people realize the versatile uses and benefits of storage solutions. Here are just a few of those uses to give you an example:
Decluttering
If you’re looking to clean out your closet, attic and/or basement this spring, then you might be interested in a storage unit for some of the items that you want to keep.
You’ll still get to hold on to your important valuables while keeping your home spacious and airy.
Downsizing
A lot of people move from larger homes to smaller apartments these days because the kids have left the nest, or for economic reasons. Whatever the case, there will probably be a lot of furniture or appliance items that won’t fit into your new space, but are too valuable to sell or give away.
A good compromise in this case would be to keep them in a storage unit, where you know they’ll be kept safe and in good condition until you’re able to use them again.
Moving
The logistics involved in the process of moving from one house to another can be quite intense. Perhaps you’re not able to transport everything at once, or maybe you still have to wait for the contractors or decorators to finish your new house before you move in. Storage will help to keep your furniture, appliances and other items safe and secure in the meantime while you transition from your old home to the new one.
Remodeling
Are you thinking of sprucing up your bedroom, kitchen or bathroom?
You’ll probably benefit from renting out a storage unit for the time being, to keep your furniture and appliances safe while the renovation process is underway.
Business Storage
Storage units can also come in handy for businesses and have a versatile range of uses in this regard. For example, you can rent out a business storage unit to use as a distribution hub, to hold surplus stock, to run your mail order or eBay store, or to store old office furniture and equipment while you wait to sell it or move it to another space.
What can I keep in my storage unit?
You can store these items in a storage unit with minimal preparation:
Electronics
Keep in a climate-controlled storage unit.
Apparel
Place clothes inside a plastic bag or a box before storing inside the unit, and opt for a climate-controlled unit with interior storage.
Furniture
Always keep furniture in a climate-controlled interior unit to avoid humidity damage, and make sure that it’s off the ground for better ventilation and airflow.
Books
A climate controlled interior unit is your best bet when storing books, because it’ll prevent mold from forming and destroying the books.
Canned Food
While it’s commonly not allowed to store food in storage due to the risk of vermin infestation, sealed beverages like wine, bottled water and beer, as well as nonperishable food cans can easily be stored.
Which items should not be kept in storage?
Believe it or not, there are certain items that you should never keep in a storage facility, as they’re either strictly forbidden or hazardous. These include:
Drugs and/ or Stolen Goods
Don’t risk getting busted by keeping your grow-room inside a storage unit, and it is illegal to keep stolen items inside storage as well.
Garbage
This one’s a no-brainer.
Guns
While some facilities do allow the storage of registered firearms in their facilities, others have very strict and clear rules against it. So, the rule of thumb here is to always ask your facility manager before you decide to store a gun in your unit.
Flammable, Hazardous or Explosives Materials
You should never keep items in a storage unit if they could possibly spill over and cause a fire or explosion.
Pets
Need we say more?
Plants
Plants are not allowed because they will rot and attract undesirable insects to your unit.
You
While it’s okay to use your unit as a workshop or an alternative office, it is absolutely illegal to use one as a live-in residence.