Regulations for self-storage services vary from one company to another. When shopping around, you should take into account the size, rental price, amenities and features of the warehouse or storage units.
Opening hours
The regulations of some self-storage services ensure 24-hour accessibility for tenants, while others only provide for access to storage units during certain hours. If you wish to have access to your belongings at any time, it may be worth paying a little more for a warehouse that’s open day and night.
The location of the warehouse
In general, the further you move away from the city and central areas, the less expensive the rental price will be. However, distance from your home or place of business may affect the frequency with which you can access your belongings.
Even within a warehouse, different locations are possible, depending on your needs. Do you intend to change the contents of your unit on a regular basis? If so, perhaps you should lease a storage unit on the ground level and near the parking lot for easier access with a truck, and without need of a dolly and elevator.
Choose the size of unit wisely, based on your current and future needs. Otherwise, you may find yourself cramped for space or, conversely, having to rent a unit that’s too big and more expensive than necessary.
Equipment
In general, the basic equipment for moving furniture and boxes is provided by the company, including dollies, trolleys and sometimes even fork lifts. Be sure to enquire if these self-storage features are included in the price of renting a unit.
Security
Is there a security guard on site? Is identification required for entry, or a magnetic key card? Are there security cameras? Are the units’ doors facing the outdoors or accessible only from indoor hallways? Is there sufficient lighting? Is it easy to contact the management? Are there measures in place to prevent theft and fire?
Enclosed or open partitions
Some self-storage units are partitioned with simple walls that don’t go all the way to the ceiling. Of course, they are less secure than spaces with full steel or concrete walls and ceilings. Remember that it’s best to cover your belongings so your unit's contents won’t be visible to potential thieves.
Upkeep
Visit a self-storage warehouse before you rent a unit. Make sure the premises are clean and well-maintained. Are the premises heated in winter and well-ventilated? Be vigilant, as the longer you wish to keep your personal belongings in a storage unit, the more important the conditions of their storage will become.
In any case, be sure to find out what you can and cannot store in your unit like dangerous products or perishable food.
