The vast majority of individuals rent a storage unit just as they do with a parking space, i.e. you take the first one you see and just have to deal with the repercussions later. It is a very costly habit. Full report!
It does not require a lot of effort to find some truly good value in self storage, but not a lot. Prices of almost similar units within the same neighborhood can vary in up to 40 percent. The difference between that and quality is the amount of research the previous renter did prior to signing.
Start with size. A 10×10 space is spacious until you find yourself standing in front of a pile of furniture attempting to get it to fit into the space — or renting a 10×15 space and paying a monthly rent on three feet of unused air. Get your things measured and then you can go window shopping. It is that type of advice that seems to be so self-evident that the average person would have to think of some other alternative other than that particular one.
In certain cases, climate control is worth paying a certain amount but in others, it is not worth even a cent. A temperature and humidity-regulated space would be a good investment in case you have musical instruments, important documents, artwork, or electronics in need of a storage space. When you are storing garden tools, plastic bins and patio furniture, then a standard unit is just fine. Give as much as your possessions require – no more.
There is nothing more significant than timing as most people would think. During late fall and winter, storage facilities are usually running at a slower pace and many of them have offers during these slower times, which never get posted on their webpage. One of the quickest methods of getting discounts on the first month of rent or no administration fees. Ask specifically. They will not necessarily volunteer the information.
In case you are sure that you will require storing a number of months, negotiate it. Month to month pricing is subject to convenience premium. The benefit of a longer term upfront is often the option of a lower monthly rate, and the savings will accumulate far faster than most renters are used to.
The other lever that is evident is location. Those that are nearer to the city centers fetch higher prices virtually everywhere. When you do not need the frequent visits to your storage needs, a drive or two further out can provide you with significant savings with minimum inconvenience.
Lastly, make sure you read the contract before signing it, and, to the extent possible, that you read the entire contract. Find provisions surrounding rate increments following an initial period, late payments, and insurances. Get it straight: Does this rate come with a guarantee of how long? A single question will save months of unexpected bills.