Self Storage Guide | Self Storage Information
If you’re looking for budget-friendly, space-saving storage solutions, using a self-storage facility is the easy answer. As well as benefiting from cost-effective storage, you can also ensure your items are kept in a secure environment. With complete control over how you store your items and how long your storage contract runs for, using self-storage offers flexibility when you need it most.
Identify your needs
Before you begin canvassing storage facilities, identify exactly what you need. This will give you a clear idea of what you’re looking for, and which facilities can provide the services you’re after. If you want to be able to access your goods at any time, for example, you may want to look for facilities which are open 24/7. Similarly, find out whether local storage facilities offer off-site storage too. Many storage firms also provide off-site, secure warehouse storage, and this can be a more convenient way of storing your goods, providing you won’t need to access them on a regular basis.
Using a self storage guide and visiting a local storage facility, such as the one at https://www.henfieldstorage.co.uk/site/staples-corner, and asking to take a look at the units may help to give you an idea of exactly how much space you’ll need.
Negotiating a price
Although most self-storage companies advertise their prices online, it’s always worth discussing the terms and conditions with a sales assistant. If you’re planning on using your storage unit on a long-term basis, there may be a reduction if you pay quarterly or annually, for example. In addition to this, you could save money if you opt for a unit which is on a higher level. If you aren’t storing heavy goods or you won’t need to access them regularly, choosing a unit which isn’t on the ground floor is a great way to keep costs down.
As well as negotiating the price for your unit, you’ll want to make some basic checks about your contract. Some facilities charge a monthly fee, whilst others operate on a rolling 28-day contract, for example. Similarly, it’s important to know whether insurance is included in the price and whether VAT will be added.
Putting your goods into storage
In order to use your unit, you’ll need to get your goods from their location to the facility itself. Some storage companies offer a collection service, whilst others will arrange to help you transport your goods from your vehicle to your unit. Check whether either of these options is available in advance and, if so, whether you need to book in advance or whether there is any charge for the service.
If you plan on moving your goods into your unit yourself, it may be helpful to find out when the facility is at its quietest. If you try to move your belongings into your unit during a busy time, you may end up waiting a long time to use the trolleys or queuing for the lifts.
With the right amount of preparation and research, however, you can secure budget-friendly storage solutions at a facility near you.