Top Tips for Choosing the Best Storage Unit

Preparing to move? You’re in good company. The peak season for moving falls between May and August. 

If you’re gearing up to move, you’re likely in a logistical whirlwind. Movers, pods, packing, and quite possibly, storage. 

Storage units offer many benefits. Perhaps you’ve outgrown your current living space, need temporary storage, or seek a place to store seasonal or treasured, albeit less used, items. 

No matter the motivation, we’ve got helpful tips for choosing the right storage option for you. 

General Storage Questions to Consider

When selecting a storage facility, it’s important to ask several key questions:

⦁ What size is recommended for your specific needs?

⦁ What types of items can and cannot be stored in the units?

⦁ What hours will you be able to access your unit?

⦁ What security measures are in place to protect your belongings?

⦁ What are the costs? Do they offer any promotions or packages?

Self-Storage vs. Full-Service Storage 

With self-storage, you rent and move your belongings into the unit. It’s usually more affordable, grants easy access to your possessions, and ensures their proper handling. 

Full-service storage eliminates worries, taking care of loading possessions into a truck, transporting them to the facility, and storing them. 

What Size Storage Unit Do You Need? 

While the facilities can provide guidance, consider these factors:

⦁ What types and quantities of items will you be storing (e.g., boxes, bulky furniture)?

⦁ How often will you need access to your belongings?

⦁ Will you frequently move items in and out? 

⦁ How easily can you reach items at the back of your storage space?

Indoor vs. Outdoor Storage Units

Indoor units are accessible from an interior corridor while outdoor units generally open onto a driveway or parking lot. 

Both come with pros and cons:

Indoor Storage Units:

Pros:  

⦁ Climate protection and possibly climate-controlled

⦁ Added security due to indoor access

⦁ Often cleaner as they’re less exposed to the outdoors

Cons:

⦁ Less convenient 

⦁ Can be more costly than outdoor units similar in size

⦁ Possibly more challenging to move larger items in and out

Outdoor Storage Units:

Pros:

⦁ Can drive directly to the unit for loading and unloading

⦁ Often equipped with gated access and security check-ins

⦁ Easier to store larger items

⦁ Usually more affordable than interior units

Cons:

⦁ More exposure to outdoor elements

⦁ Less private

As you can see, there’s much to regard in choosing a storage facility. Allow yourself time to research the best one for your needs. 

Consider storage units your home away from home.