Are you in the process of moving, decluttering your home, or simply have some items you want stored away from your living space? If the answer is yes, then storage units are your solution. However, any old storage unit won’t do! So, to ensure you make an informed decision on finding the perfect place, we’ve crafted ten personalized tips from expert movers on how to find those “best storage units near me.” Let’s dive in!
Top 10 Tips for Finding the Best Storage Units Near Me
Tip 1: Determine Your Storage Needs
The first step to finding appropriate storage units is to assess the size and quantity of the items you need to store. For example, if you are storing household items while moving, you may need a large enough unit to fit beds, couches, and other big furniture. Alternatively, if you are looking for a spot to place extra home items, like seasonal décor, you may only need something the size of a closet.
Therefore, we recommend making a list of the items you want to store, as well as items you may want to store in the future, and their dimensions, so you can accurately choose an appropriately sized storage space.
Tip 2: Research Local Storage Facilities
Next, you want to investigate your local storage options. We recommend going online and doing a map search for nearby facilities rather than typing in “best storage units near me.” We recommend this because the facilities listed at the top of the “best storage units near me” results page may just have excellent advertising or be a paid advertisement, whereas the best actual facility might be listed on page two of the results. By searching using a map, you can see what facilities are closest to you and investigate their information further.
Just make sure that you check the reviews and ratings from previous customers using a third-party site (like Google) to get an accurate representation of the company!
Tip 3: Seek Recommendations
Another excellent way of finding those “best storage units near me” is by asking friends, family, and colleagues for recommendations. With most people experiencing a residential home move or needing extra storage, they likely have insider information on who and who not to use. By selecting a storage facility with a good reputation, you know that your service will be up to the standard of the person recommending it!
Tip 4: Consider Climate-Controlled Units
While researching various storage facility options, we recommend considering selecting a climate-controlled unit. Storing certain items in a climate-controlled unit can significantly extend their lifespan and maintain their condition by protecting them from extreme temperatures, humidity, and other environmental factors. Here is a list of items that we suggest storing in climate-controlled storage units:
- Artwork and Fine Art
- Musical Instruments
- Electronics
- Photographs and Film
- Leather Goods
- Wooden Furniture
- Food and Alcohol
- Important Documents
- Collectibles and Antiques
- Textiles and Clothing
- Medical Supplies
Tip 5: Visit the Facility
After finding three or four local storage unit facilities with good ratings, we recommend visiting them and asking for tours of storage units of various sizes. This lets you see the facility in action, inspect cleanliness, security, and accessibility, and gain a perspective on storage unit sizing.
This is also a great time to ask the facility manager questions about rates, seasonal discounts, availability, and facility policies. If possible, ask to take home a brochure or service packet to review on your own later.
Tip 6: Check Security Features
When visiting various facilities, security features are key. You want to ensure that your belongings will be safe and secure at all times – day or night! Companies competing for the “best storage units near me” title should have robust security procedures, including surveillance cameras, gated access, and on-site personnel.
Tip 7: Evaluate Accessibility
Another aspect to request about while visiting your various facilities is accessibility. While you may be storing your items away from home, you still want to be able to access them when most convenient for you. We advise finding out the hours of operation for your facility, what options and security measures they have in place for after-hours access, and what requirements are needed for you to gain access to the facility as a whole and to your specific unit.
Tip 8: Compare Prices and Services
Once you have visited all of your favorite facilities, it is time to compare. We recommend laying out each facility’s pricing structures and service offerings. There are three components of this:
- Rental Rate: The monthly or annual cost, including any potential rate increases during the lease term.
- Payment Terms: Details on when payments are due, acceptable payment methods, and consequences for late payments.
- Security Deposit: Requirements for any deposit, including the amount and conditions for refundability.
By understanding these three aspects of pricing, you can get a comprehensive idea of your potential cost.
Tip 9: Ask About Insurance Options:
When comparing prices and services, it is also essential to consider your insurance options.
First, we recommend checking with your personal homeowners or renters insurance to see if your policy covers items stored at a storage facility.
Then, you will want to check on the facility’s insurance. As a business, they will have business insurance on the company. Still, you want to ask about the limitations on the facility’s liability for damage or loss of stored items and conditions under which the facility can be held liable.
Additionally, your lease agreement may come with an insurance policy, or you may be able to purchase additional insurance for your unit.
Tip 10: Review the Lease Agreement
Before signing on the dotted line, there are vital elements to look for in a storage unit lease agreement. In addition to all the elements we’ve mentioned above, you should also consider:
- Rental Period: The specific start and end dates for the rental agreement.
- Termination Policy: Instructions on terminating the agreement, including notice periods and any associated fees.
- Use Restrictions: Rules on what cannot be stored within the unit.
- Maintenance and Repairs: Responsibilities of the storage facility regarding maintenance and repair of the unit and common areas.
- Default Remedies: Actions the facility can take if you fail to comply with the lease terms, such as locking the unit or disposing of contents.
Once you feel comfortable and secure with your chosen storage facility, it is time to sign and move in!
Store with Larsen Transfer Today!
Are you looking for the best storage units near you? Larsen Transfer is a military-approved facility, which means we abide by the strict rules and regulations the military and government set forth. You can rest assured that your items will be safe and secure with us! Want to learn more? Contact Larsen Transfer today for expert advice and top-rated storage solutions.
