Effectively Using Storage During a Move

Whether you're moving house, have more business inventory than shop space or just need a place to put your band's amps and equipment, self storage can be a cost-effective way to safely store your belongings. There are a lot of different storage providers out there, though, so how do you choose the one that's right for you? Here's a quick checklist of things you'll need to look at before choosing a storage locker. 

Size

There's no point in paying for storage space you're not using, but the last thing you want is to turn up on moving day and find that your boxes won't fit in the unit. Many storage companies have a space estimator that will help you calculate the amount of space you're likely to need for your belongings. Most storage providers will have a range of different sizes available, so ask about your options. 

Climate control 

If heat or cold could damage the items you're storing, you may want to pay a little more for a climate-controlled storage locker. Many mini storage businesses now offer these facilities, which will keep their contents at a consistent temperature. Items that need climate-controlled storage will usually carry some kind of warning, but you may need to research the matter if you're unsure. 

Gate and office hours

When you need to get into your storage locker, you want to be able to get to it. That means being sure that the storage centre will be open. Office hours rather than gate opening hours may not be as critical, but you still want to be able to talk to the office when it's convenient for you. Make sure that both include times that you're available, especially on weekdays when work and commute schedules can get in the way. 

Access

Some storage businesses have lockers which can be accessed from within a building; in others, lockers open directly onto a drive or car park. Each system has its own advantages and disadvantages: indoor-access buildings are more secure, while outdoor-access units are easier to load your items into. 

Security precautions

How safe is the entrance to your storage locker? Ask the storage centre about the security systems in place. Precautions can include security cameras, keypad entry systems and more. You'll need to decide what level of security you need, which will depend on the value of the items you want stored. 

These factors will help you decide what kind of storage unit you need. Once you know what you're looking for, you can compare prices until you find the cost that's right for you.