If you’ve never thought about it before, renting a storage unit for the first time can feel a little overwhelming. In addition to thinking about location, budget, and size, there’s no shortage of features to consider. Some questions to ask yourself about your storage needs can include:
- Do I need drive-up access or do I want a unit that is inside a building?
- How will I get my items to the facility?
- Where will I get boxes?
- How long will I need to rent storage?
Thankfully, renting a storage unit has never been easier. When your Life Demands Space®, trust the professionals at Prime Storage to walk you through the process. Equipped with this guide and their knowledge, you can count on making the right decision for your storage needs. Let’s look at all the details you should have squared away when renting your first storage unit.
Consider your storage needs.
Are you renting a storage unit to reclaim some lost space in your home? Is your storage problem caused by excess inventory in your retail store? There are plenty of reasons to rent a storage unit, ranging from home renovations to seasonal equipment needs for businesses.
Personal Storage
Sometimes people rent storage units because they need a temporary home for their belongings during a renovation. At other times, they may have inherited a large number of a loved one’s possessions and need a space to store them while they get organized. Other storage customers may need long-term storage for their collectibles or furniture they’re no longer using. In retirement, you could find that your current housing situation is too large and may want to downsize. You might even need a place to park your car, boat, or RV! At the end of the day, there’s no shortage of reasons for renting personal storage.
Storage Units for Business Needs
A multitude of businesses may find themselves in need of additional storage space. Photographers need a place to stow their gear and props in between shoots. Lawn care and home improvement pros need somewhere to store tools and equipment. Real estate agents and sales professionals can offload sales collateral, staging furniture, displays, and other materials. There are so many ways to utilize self storage space.
Which type of storage do you need to rent?
Once you’ve nailed down your reason(s) for using self storage, the next order of business is to figure out just what kind of storage unit—and how much of it—you need. Prime Storage offers a variety of space, features, and affordability. Are you storing your items for just a short period of time, or do you plan on leaving them in storage for a while? The most important question to ask, however, is whether or not to store your items in an exterior drive-up storage unit or an interior one equipped with climate control.
Climate Controlled Storage Units
Climate controlled storage units keep items stored inside them at a steady temperature throughout the year. When a storage customer wants to store something that is susceptible to extreme temperatures (both hot and cold), climate controlled storage can help keep these items from being affected by warping, melting, bending, shrinking, or other types of damage due to temperature. Common candidates for climate controlled storage include:
- Electronics
- Wooden furniture
- Vinyl records
- Photographs and documents
- Antiques
Drive-Up Storage Units
The other commonly rented storage type, drive-up storage, offers convenient access and helps facilitate a faster move-in. Just pull your vehicle right up to the storage unit and load or unload your belongings. Many drive-up storage units don’t have climate control, which makes them good choices for budget-conscious storage users without temperature-sensitive items.
Vehicle Parking and Storage for Boats, RVs, and More
In addition to storage for smaller, personal goods, many Prime Storage facilities offer convenient access to vehicle parking for cars, boats, RVs, and more. These storage options can help keep your driveway or garage organized and free of large vehicles that aren’t frequently used. These spaces are a great option for those who use their boats and RVs seasonally and are looking for month-to-month leases during the off-season.
Other Features and Amenities
If you’re renting for the first time, you may be focused on finding the right size. However, shopping for a storage unit is about more than just measuring dimensions. It also includes amenities and features that make the experience of moving into and renting storage even easier. Common storage amenities you should consider include:
Boxes and Moving Supplies Available for Purchase
First-time storage renters may not know that your local facility offers everything you need to get packed and prepped for move-in. Buying your boxes and moving supplies at your storage facility not only helps keep you organized, but also allows you to save time. If you find yourself running low on packing supplies, skip that extra trip to the store and pick up what you need at your storage facility. Common items found at facilities include:
- Boxes
- Packing Tape
- Mattress Covers
- Bubble Wrap
- “All-in-One” Moving Kits, complete with various boxes, tape, and more
While not a moving supply or box, Prime Storage facilities also carry locks that you will need to secure your unit. If you forget to bring your own, no worries. You can stop by the storage facility office or 24/7 rental kiosk (at applicable locations) and quickly purchase one.
Flexible Payments and Leasing Options
Life challenges require flexibility. Whether your storage needs are pre-planned or you need to make a sudden adjustment to your arrangements, month-to-month leases allow you to change your storage needs without worrying about breaking a contract. Unlike when renting an apartment, you’re not stuck with a long-term commitment (and can move to a larger unit on-premise when you need more space).
Ground Floor and Elevator Storage Access
If you’re worried about getting your items into storage, consider renting storage space from a facility with either ground floor access or elevators for your convenience. Whether you’re moving your belongings in –or have hired movers to assist – elevators and drive-up accessibility will be your best friend. These units are also ideal if you plan on moving goods in and out of your unit frequently. Rent a unit closest to an elevator or the front gate if you know that is the case!
Find Your First Storage Unit at Prime Storage
If you have questions about renting storage for the first time, Prime Storage can help. Whether you need some advice on picking the right kind of storage unit or just have questions about what you can (or can’t) store at our facilities, reach out to your nearest location today.
