Renting a storage unit is a necessity for many people at some point in their life. Whether it is because they will be living abroad for a few months and can't afford to ship all of their belongings or because they are in a space that it is too small for their possessions, it is important to consider a few items before deciding what type of storage unit to get.
Climate Control
A climate controlled storage unit means that the temperature and humidity level are kept constant. Choosing a unit with climate control will cost more than choosing one without, so it is important to know if this is a necessity for your items. The first thing to consider is what the temperature is like in the area you will be storing your belongings. Extreme cold or heat can damage certain items. Leather, wood, pictures and videos can all be affected by harsh environments. Overtime written material can become unreadable. In addition, things like mattresses and metal appliances could be susceptible to harsh elements.
Security
Most storage units have some level of security. The value of the items present will determine what degree of security you want. Some units have a gate code to enter and exit so that the company can know who is entering. Some units have individual alarms on each unit. You can also check the local police reports to see if any incidents have been reported.
Access
If you want regular access to the items in your storage unit, it is good to know the company's policies during non-business hours.
Pricing
Many storage companies offer a first month special. While these are usually great deals, don't forget that you will need to keep paying for your unit after that. Make sure you know how much the monthly fee will be and if there are any hidden fees like an admin fee or a move-in fee. These can add up quickly, so it is good to be aware before signing a contract. Many companies offer month to month contracts, which means that fees could go up if you plan on leaving your things there for awhile. Find out if you pay ahead of time if you can lock in the initial rate you were quoted or how price increases will affect you.
If you are willing to pay a monthly fee for a storage unit, the belongings inside are obviously important to you, so it makes sense to do a little research ahead of time to find out just what you will be getting. For more information, see http://www.allamericanself-storage.com.
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