10 facts you should know before renting self-storage

There are certain periods in our lives when we can find ourselves in need of some additional space in our homes or offices. And, when that time arrives, you will want to be ready and know everything about the process of finding the right storage unit. Worry not, this isn’t an impossible mission and we, at PortaBox Storage, are here to prove this. We wanted to make the process of storing as simple as possible for you and that is why we have listed 10 facts you should know before renting self-storage. Read the following carefully and you will learn how to handle storing like a pro.

Need to store some of your items? Here are the 10 facts you need to know before renting a self-storage

Most people think that there is nothing challenging about storing belongings. You only have to find a storage unit that is close to your home and place your items there, isn’t that right? Well, there is more to this entire process. And, it is necessary to get informed about it if you want to store your items properly and ensure they will be safe during the storing period. Here are the 10 facts about self-storage that will help you store your belongings the right way.

1- Define your needs and requirements before you go on a storage hunt

So, you are planning to get a Kirkland self-storage in the near future? Well, before you do that, you will have to define your needs and requirements. You should make an inventory list and write down all of the items you plan to store away. By doing this, it will be easy for you to determine the size and the type of storage unit you need to get. 

2- Learn what types of storage units exist to find the one that perfectly suits your needs

Since people have different needs and requirements, there are also different types of storage units. First of all, there are short term units in which you can store your items for no more than three months, and there are also long terms storage units in which you can store your belongings or a longer period. If you are not sure which one will meet your needs perfectly, think about comparing short-term vs long-term storage and you will get your answer with ease. In addition to this, there are also climate-controlled facilities that are perfect for storing sensitive items such as artwork, books, or important documents.

3- Avoid getting too big or too small facilities

Another important thing about self-storage is that these units come in various sizes that differ in their price. Because of this, many people rent smaller storage units just so they can save a couple of bucks but that is a big mistake. If you rent a unit that is smaller than you need, you won’t be able to store everything you want without creating chaos. 

Getting a facility that is way bigger than the one you need is another mistake. Unless you are a business owner who plans to grow its business, there is no point in renting more space than you need. You will only spend more money and you will never use that extra space.

4- Don’t get a self-storage from the first company you stumble upon

There is nothing worse than renting a storage unit from an unreliable company. If you want to store your items in a safe place, you will need to research the company first. Make sure to check their provided information to see if it is legit and to look for their reviews and ratings. If there is nothing fishy about the company, get the storage unit you wanted.

5- Plan your budget in advance to avoid spending more than you have planned

Even though there are many DIY storage alternatives, they aren’t as safe as storage facilities. Thus, it is better to spend a little bit more on a safe facility than to get an unsafe alternative. And, storing doesn’t even have to be pricey! If you plan your budget in advance and get estimates from different companies, you will avoid spending more than you have planned.

6- Make sure you have the necessary documents

Are you ready for getting a self-storage? If that is the case, make sure you check whether you have all the necessary documents. You will have to show some identification, a government-issued document. Some of the US identity documents are:

• Driver’s license
• Passport
• State ID
• Military ID 

7- Examine the storage before renting it

Many people think that storage units aren’t safe but those are just myths about self-storage facilities. If you have checked whether the company is reliable, you will have nothing to worry about. You should also take a look at the storage you want to rent, just to see whether there is any damage or holes. If everything is ok, you can rent it and rest at ease.

8- Know what can and what shouldn’t be stored to avoid problems

Here is one of the most important facts you should know before renting self-storage – you can’t store everything. Hazardous items and dangerous goods can not be stored. Also, you can’t store plants and perishable food because they could attract unwanted guests – rodents and mold. Thus, make sure to get informed about this matter before you store items.

9- Don’t just throw your stuff in boxes and hope for the best

Storage units need to be organized and cleaned regularly. You will want to plan how you will stack your boxes so that you can access all of them with ease. Items that you want to store need to be dry, clean and packed the right way. It is a good idea to cover large furniture with bed linen because cotton can protect it while allowing it to breathe at the same time.

10- Plan to check on your self-storage often

Last but not least is to check on your storage regularly just to make sure everything is ok. You should also declutter from time to time and clean it. Remember, keeping your storage unit organized is of the utmost importance!

There you have it, these were the facts you should know before renting self-storage. If you have any more questions or you want to get your very own self storage, make sure to get in touch with us! We will gladly help in any way we can.