Need A Safe Place To Store Your Stuff? What To Know Now
If you have a large number of items that you have to put into a storage unit, but you have never had to store anything in the past, there are some key things to know. Finding the right storage facility is crucial. You want to feel your items are safe and trust that everything will be protected.
Call around to local storage provider to inquire about costs and lease terms. You also need to know what size of unit you are looking for. Here are some things to consider before committing to a location.
Security Is a Top Priority
These are your valuable belongings, so you must make sure that they are secured. The facility should have a surveillance camera system around the property, that monitors who is coming in and out, and that can record every hour of the day.
Talk with the facility manager about the types of locks they use on the doors, a magnetic lock or rolling lock is best. You don't want an easily removable lock like a padlock that someone can cut without hesitation or struggle.
Package Properly
How you pack your belongings inside the storage unit is very important. Durable storage totes are best for small items and most household items. Anything that is fragile or you worry about getting damaged or scratched should be surrounded with bubble wrap, Styrofoam, or other packaging supplies for protection. Proper packaging can prevent moisture damage, pest infestation, and
Have Insurance
Get storage insurance for protection. You never know what type of natural disaster can occur, or an accident at the property like a fire or flood. You also want protection from theft or vandalism as well. The storage facility may have a coverage plan you can add to your monthly lease, or you can look for costs for your own policy to make sure the value of what is stored is covered.
Be sure that you know the terms of the lease before you sign. You don't want to end up missing a payment, to find that your belongings have been sold or removed. Know what forms of payment are acceptable, and what day of the month the lease is due.
If you want to pay the entire year's lease upfront, ask if you are able to get a discount for doing this. With this information, you can make a good decision on where to store your stuff and keep it safe.