Renting a self storage unit can solve the problem of where to keep your belongings in various situations that you encounter. Whether you need to store items while you renovate your home, keep seasonal belongings, or accommodate belongings during a move, self storage is a smart solution. However, choosing the right storage facility and unit requires careful consideration so factors such as safety, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness must be considered.
If you are looking for a storage unit, keep the following key factors in mind.
Location of the Storage Facility
When choosing a storage facility, location is one of the most important factors to consider. You want to select a facility that makes it easy and convenient for you to access your belongings whenever you need them. Therefore, consider the accessibility and traffic patterns of the location, and make sure the facility is easy to reach. By doing so, you can ensure a smooth and stress free storage experience.
Location has a bearing on what your storage unit will cost. If the facility is centrally located expect to pay more than for one that is out of the way. If you require to access your stored goods frequently, it may be worth paying more for a unit close to where you live or work, thus cutting out the frustration and stress of traveling a distance every time you need to fetch something. If you don’t need access to your stored goods, then a cheaper option that is further away could be suitable.Security of your Belongings
When it comes to storing your valuable possessions, it’s crucial to prioritise security. To ensure that your belongings are always safe, it’s best to seek out storage facilities that offer robust security measures such as 24/7 surveillance, gated access, well lit premises, and on-site staff. By choosing a secure storage facility, you can have peace of mind knowing that your possessions are protected from potential theft and vandalism.
Choice of Self Storage Unit Sizes
When selecting a storage unit, it’s essential to assess the amount of your belongings first. Is it the contents of a 3-bedroom home, or do you just need to store a few seasonal items? Luckily, most storage facilities offer a wide variety of unit sizes catering to different needs. It’s always best to rent a slightly larger unit than you think you need so that you have room for any additional items or future storage requirements. This approach will ensure that you can keep adding to your belongings if you need to without the hassle of moving everything again if you find your storage unit is too small.
Accessibility of Self Storage Facility
To make the most out of your storage facility, it’s essential to consider its operational hours and amenities, which should suit your specific needs. Some facilities are available round the clock, while others have specific opening hours, so checking before making a reservation is best. Further, you can enquire about the availability of loading docks, elevators, carts, or dollies to make moving your items to and from your unit more manageable. This will help make your experience with the facility a positive one.
Cleanliness of the Unit
The state of a storage facility’s cleanliness can speak volumes about the level of care that the management displays towards the premises and, in turn, how they view you and your valuable possessions. It is always a wise decision to conduct a thorough inspection of the storage units, hallways, and common areas before making a final choice. Are the storage units well maintained, with clean common areas? Is the perimeter fence in good condition? Is there sufficient lighting? By making sure that these steps are in place you can be satisfied that your belongings will be safe in a well maintained and hygienic environment.
Allied to the general cleanliness of the facility, ensure that there are effective pest control measures in place. Pests can cause irreparable damage to your belongings, so there should be preventative measures in place to keep the premises free of pests.Reputation, Reviews, and Recommendations
When searching for a storage facility, it’s always smart to do some research beforehand. One of the best ways to guarantee that you choose a trustworthy company is by reading customer reviews and testimonials. These reviews can help you see what previous renters thought about their experiences, and what you can expect from the storage facility. By reading reviews, you can make an informed decision and feel confident that you are choosing the right storage company for your needs. So, don’t be afraid to dive in and learn from the experiences of others!
Ask for recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues who have experience with self storage. Personal recommendations can provide valuable insights and help you choose a reliable and trustworthy facility.Fee Structure
Be aware of any additional fees that may apply, such as administrative fees, security deposit requirements, or fees for using the facility’s moving equipment. Understanding the full cost of renting a unit will help you budget effectively.
Look out for any specials or discounts that the facility may be offering, for example, two months for the price of one.Exit Policies
To ensure a smooth and hassle free departure, it is advisable to familiarise yourself with the facility’s policies for moving out. Take the time to understand the required notice period and procedures for closing your account, so you can be well-prepared and avoid any unnecessary misunderstandings.
Stop & Store Fareham: Your Perfect Self Storage Facility
If you are looking for the right facility to store your belongings consider Stop & Store Fareham. We prioritise the safety of your belongings, and offer easy access from 8 am to 8 pm, seven days a week. Our customers are our priority.
We offer a wide variety of storage unit sizes, so whether you need to store a household of furniture or some important documents, you will find something to suit you.
Our booking system is easy to operate, and once we have received your payment you can access your unit and start moving your goods.
Check our website for reviews from our clients.
We are conveniently located in the Fareham Shopping Centre, in the heart of the town. We offer easy access for you to load and unload your goods.
Tel: 01329 556174.