When you need more space for your excess items, a self storage unit will provide you with a secure place to keep your valuable belongings. Whether you are between moves or simply have extra stuff around the house that you need to organize, self storage is a good option. But how do you choose the best storage facility? With so many options out there, here are some tips for you to consider when choosing a self storage facility.
Security of the self storage facility
The first thing you need to be sure about is that your belongings will be safe and secured from being stolen while they are in storage. Make sure that the storage facility you pick has adequate security features. You should expect these to include a fully fenced perimeter with security gates, monitored security cameras situated all over the property, and proper lighting.
In addition to these measures, there should be strict access control for visitors so that people with no business there are unable to enter the facility. These measures will give you the confidence that the self storage facility you have chosen can keep your belongings safe for the duration of their storage.
Fees and costs of self storage facility
While you cannot base your decision on price alone, it is an important consideration when choosing a self storage facility. Make sure you understand the pricing structure as well as what is included in the price. Find out if there are any additional fees, or if the fee you are quoted is the final amount. Look out for any special offers that the facility may be offering on certain-sized units.
Bear in mind that there is much more to self storage than the price alone. You need to look at the other factors such as security and other services provided, the location, as well as the terms and conditions. So there is a bigger picture to consider than just fees.
Location of the self storage facility
If you are storing goods that you need to access, a self storage facility situated near your home will be much more convenient than if it is further away. You don’t want to be spending hours in the traffic every time you wish to fetch something from your self storage unit.
As a rule, self storage facilities situated in urban areas near good road networks making them easier to access will be costlier than ones that are further away. So if you do not need to access your goods frequently you may get a better deal in outlying areas. Location matters therefore as it is tied to accessibility and cost.
Size of storage unit
When determining which sized unit you need don’t forget to take the height of the unit into consideration in order to make use of the vertical space. Making a list of the items you wish to store will help you calculate what sized unit will suit you best. If you have large furniture items to store make sure that they will fit in terms of width and height. The size of your unit will dictate how much the storage unit costs.
Terms and conditions
These typically cover requirements such as minimum storage period, month-to-month options, late payment, or missing payment costs, and what happens to your unit or your belongings in either case. These terms and conditions should be easy to understand and transparent. They are important when comparing facilities and you need to read and understand them.
Loading and off-loading
If you have heavy items to store you will need to find a facility with adequate parking and maybe even direct access to your chosen unit to make loading and off-loading a breeze.
Accessibility of the facilty
Check out the hours of business of the facility. If you need access during the weekends can the facility accommodate you? How do you access the facility? Is it through a pin code?
Flexibility
This relates to whether you need short-term storage during a move for example, or longer-term storage if you are going away for an extended period or you need to keep your belongings safely when downsizing. If you want to change the length of your rental or the size of your storage space, will you be able to or will you be tied into your current contract? Choose a company that is flexible in these matters as your plans may change down the line.
Customer service
Are the staff friendly and engaging? It is important to know that any queries or issues you have are dealt with quickly. This is where customer reviews can come in handy. When comparing facilities it is vital to take these into account. If any problem areas are frequently mentioned in these reviews, it could indicate that you may experience the same thing.
Insurance
Check whether your home insurance policy covers items stored off-site in a facility. You may need to take out additional insurance if it doesn’t cover you.
These are some of the considerations to take into account when deciding on which self storage facility to choose
Why Choose Stop & Store Fareham Self Storage Facility?
For anyone who is running out of space for their belongings and needs some advice on choosing a self storage facility, consider Stop & Store Fareham. We provide a secure, and economical option for the storage of your surplus belongings. Here are some of the reasons to use our facility.
- Our security is second to none with 24/7 monitored CCTV surveillance, and controlled access, and our facility is well maintained.
- One of the most important ways to ensure that your goods will be safe during storage is to choose a unit that is the right size. If you are unsure or need help estimating, please consult our handy Space Calculator so that you pick the perfect size for the amount of stuff you have.
- Once you have booked and paid for a self storage unit, we send you a pin and you can immediately access our facility.
- Our office hours are 7 days a week, from 8 am to 8 pm.
- Please check our website for our online reviews.
- Load and offload your goods with ease.
- We are conveniently located in the Fareham Shopping Centre, in the heart of the town.
Tel: 01329 556174. We look forward to hearing from you.