How to Choose the Right Storage Units for Your Needs?
Choosing the proper storage unit is crucial for moving purposes or increasing storage utility at home. Several vital considerations must be made to ensure your belongings are accessible and safe. Doing this will help you de-clutter your home or business and immediately protect items you do not need. Are you excited to know how? Let us take you on a journey where we talk about the proper storage unit for the appropriate goods at your home and how to categorize them according to your needs.
How Do I Decide What to Put into Storage?
- Analyze your storage items
Make a list of all your belongings that need to be stored. To simplify the process, categorize them by size, condition, value, etc. Also, identify the items you frequently use and those you do not.
- Evaluate size and space
Large items that are no longer or seldomly used, such as furniture, electronic appliances, and equipment that take up a lot of space, are often wise to store. Smaller items can also be stored in boxes and stacked to improve the use of space.
- Note the condition and value
Ensure that the items to be stored are in good condition to avoid deterioration. Also, check their value, as high-value items might require special handling and care, such as climate control or added security.
Pro Tip: Wrap your fragile items in bubble wrap carefully and label each box clearly to retrieve them easily.
- Look for seasonal items
Seasonal clothing and holiday decorations are ideal for storage when not in use. Seasonal equipment such as skis, snowboards, lawnmowers, and gardening tools can also be stored according to the season.
- Prioritize sentimental goods
Store your sentimental items such as family heirlooms, photographs, etc. Also, important documents that are not needed frequently should be stored in a safe and dry place.
How Do I Choose the Right Storage Unit?
- Determine your storage needs
First, make a list of items you plan to store. Check their size, value, and any specific storage requirements. This will help you determine the duration of time and the type of storage unit you’ll require. The different self-storage units are indoor storage (residential, business, lifestyle), outdoor drive-up storage, and vehicle storage. Note that short-term storage needs might differ from long-term storage needs.
- Decide the right size
Size guides from storage facilities are a boon! They help you calculate the space you’ll need for your storage. The standard storage unit sizes are 5’ X 5’, 5’ X 10’, 10’ X 10’, 10’ X 15’, 10’ X 20’, 10’ X 25’, and 10’ X 30’. When planning for accessibility, choose a slightly larger storage unit if you need frequent access and vice versa. It will also allow for easy access to walkways inside the storage unit.
- Consider location and accessibility
For convenience, remember to select a storage facility near your location, such as your home or workplace. Check the storage facility’s access hours. While some places offer 24/7 access, others have specific hours of operation. If you’re moving heavy units, look for features like drive-up access or ground-floor units for vehicle storage units. Based on accessibility, you can place the items frequently used on the front of the storage unit and stack the rest behind.
- Estimate security features
Before choosing a storage facility, ensure it has surveillance cameras and monitoring systems. You can also look for gated access with personal entry codes or keycard access. For additional peace of mind, you can have a storage unit with on-site staff or security personnel.
- Read reviews
Before visiting the storage facility, read any reviews and testimonials from past customers to know about the service quality and reliability. While visiting the storage unit, check for maintenance and overall cleanliness.
- Compare pricing
Compare quotes from different storage facilities to get the top estimates. Be aware of the additional charges for insurance, administration, and late payments. Read the contract terms carefully, including the rental period, renewal policies, and cancellation fees.
Access Mini-Storage Ltd. is the Right Storage Unit for You in Chilliwack
Access Mini-Storage Ltd. offers top security and convenience for storing goods. We have a state-of-the-art, local, off-site mini-storage facility in Chilliwack. Our premises are equipped with video security cameras. All our units are individually alarmed. We care about your belongings, so we also have heated storage units. Want to know more? Call us today!
