Whether you’re switching homes or decluttering post-holiday,storage always becomes a problem. Statistically speaking, many homeowners can’t use one room in their house because of how cluttered it has become.
A solution to this problem of not having enough space at homeinvolves renting a self-storage unit nearby where you can dump your belongings for future use. If you have old furniture, books, and heirloom paintings, parting with these things isn’t easy. But keeping them in the house may take up a lot of space. That’s why you either rent storage units. This blog shows you how to choose the right storage facility where your stuff can be safe.
Tips for renting a self-storage facility
Let’s talk about moving, shall we? Millions of Americans move every year and relocate to different cities. Louisiana, for instance, always welcomes newcomers from Alabama and theCaribbean. You may consider the city of Lake Charles, the sixth-most populous city in the state. It’s estimated that Lake Charles will have a whopping 54.2% job growth in the next years, ideal for future residents. Also, if you undertake the post-Christmas cleanup job, chances are you’ll come across a lot of baggage that simply can’t be stored in the house.
But keeping your belongings in an external facility isn’t an easy decision to make. If you’re planning to get another house or make more space in the one, here’s how you can get hold of the best storage unit:
1. Choose the facility‘s location carefully
Location’s the first thing you should consider when renting a self-storage facility. So always use Google to look up nearby options first. For instance, you can find a unit near your home or workplace so you can access your stuff anytime. Relocating to another city, e.g., Lake Charles, means you must find affordable storage solutions there. These Lake Charles self storage facilities offer units of various sized and different price ranges. They also offer military discounts if you’re a veteran. Now, you can set up your new house stress-free.
2. Read online reviews
Many websites compare different storage facilities located throughout the United States. Check online reviews for a storage facility you’re considering and read what tenants have to say about it. You may evaluate different storage facilities in your neighborhood by comparing the following factors:
• 24/7 access to your unit (even on Sundays)
• Amazing customer service and well-mannered staff
• Clean, organized, and well-maintained units with no rodents
• Security measures, i.e., on-premise guards and video surveillance
• A suitable parking space for customers when they’re here to get their stuff
3. Get climate-controlled units when necessary
Humidity-controlled storage units can protect your wooden furniture and paper-based documents from moisture. Even though they may cost much more than your standard non-climate-controlled unit, climate-controlled facilities are better when keeping metal, wood, and fabric-based items longer.
4. Visit the storage unit first
But there are many storage facilities in a city. How to determine which one‘s the best? You can visit a facility after contacting customer service to see what storage solutions they offer. Don’t only rely on the pictures a storage company uploads online. That’s how you can get firsthand knowledge of whether these units are safe for renting.
5. Check various available unit sizes
Self-storage facilities offer differently-sized units, and you should carefully evaluate how large a unit should be to accommodate your belongings. Renting smaller units will mean less space for any extra stuff. Also, smaller units don’t give you much breathing unit, i.e., when you wish to sit there and sort through your stuff.
6. Know what cannot be stored
In 2021, 38% of Americans stated they used self-storage facilities. However, many people have no idea what items can and can’t be stored in these units. Police often find weird things stored in these places, and these discoveries are often criminal. Here are some things you can’t store in these units:
• Dead animals
• Living animals
• Food or plants
• Toxic chemicals or explosives
• Deeds, currencies, and securities
7. Keep your proper docs ready
Storage facility owners may ask for proper documentation and valid ID before letting you rent a unit. So, you should prepare these docs and bring them with you before moving your items into a storage unit. Don’t forget to give them your contact information (e.g., email, phone number, and home address). Also, give them insurance info (for instance, rental insurance).
8. Pack all your items carefully
How can you further ensure your stored belongings don‘t get damaged? Transporting heavy items and brittle ones can be a nuisance, particularly when the roads are rugged and the journey is hours long. So, packing your items properly will ensure your valuables don’t break on their way to the storage unit. Gather packaging material, e.g., newspapers, bubble wrap, and big boxes, to safeguard your belongings from all those disgusting bumps in the road.
9. Make an inventory with photographs
Don’t forget to make an inventory of all the items you have packed and are about to store in any external facility. Take pictures of these items in case they get damaged, and the owner labels these damages as pre-existing ones. Making an inventory will help you do two things: you can remember what exactly you’ve stored in which storage facility and claim compensation when any of your items get lost.
10. Lock your unit carefully
Crime happens when you least expect it. So, don’t just rely on the storage facility’s inherent security but also bring your locks. Take security measures by investing in a strong lock to ensure nobody breaks into the facility without your permission. Instead of purchasing traditional lock-and-key ones, get smart locks, i.e., biometric security systems, if the facility’s owner allows such upgrades.
Conclusion
Investing in secure, affordable, and temperature-controlled self-storage facilities can help maximize your home’s space. Safekeeping your belongings and creating extra space in your dwelling are benefits of these storage units. Just understand what you can and can’t store in these facilities and pack everything tightly before storing. Don’t forget to get on nearby and visit the facility first. Read online reviews about it too. Also, ensure you’re rented the right-sized unit and made an inventory (with pictures) of all the items you intend to store away. Invest in a strong lock for added security. These simple tips help you choose and rent the right storage unit.
- Your Go-To Guide: Picking the Perfect Sexy Lingerie for Date Night - October 1, 2024
- Dress Up Dilemma – 3 Significant Prom Trends for 2025 - September 19, 2024
- Women Leading the Charge in Non-Traditional Careers - September 3, 2024
