Are you moving soon and you need a space to store your valuables, or you are renovating your home and you want to keep them safe, or you don’t have enough space in your home? For all these problems, there is one solution – to rent a storage unit. But, how to pick the best storage for your valuables and to be sure that your items will be safe all the time? How to be sure that you are hiring a reliable storage company and where to search? What is important to check? Before you take any step, you should read a guide and be prepared. Only this way your valuables will be safe.
Make a list of the valuables you want to store
Before you choose a good storage facility, you must know what you will store inside. So, make a list of all the valuables that you have to store inside of a storage unit. This way, you will also have an inventory and you will know how big storage units to rent. Write everything, from larger to smaller items. Large items (for example, antique furniture) are harder to store and large items will take you most of the space.
If you need to store fragile items, prepare them first for storage. You should have the right packing material.
Tips to help you choose the best storage for your valuables
What is important to check when choosing a storage unit for your valuable items? Of course, you will be worried about all your items, but when storing valuables, it requires more attention. They are more sensitive, they cost a lot, or you are emotionally related to them. There are many benefits of renting a storage unit but only if you pick storage according to your needs.
The storage for your valuables must have special locks and password for unlocking the door
Read online reviews
Today, most people look for services and companies online. But, there are bad and good storage companies, and reading online reviews may help you. Every reliable storage and moving company has a website today and profiles on social media too.
But, learn how to recognize fake online reviews. For example, if they are too positive, or written on the same day, or if the style of writing is the same, they are probably fake. After reading a couple of them, you will know what is real and what is fake. Also, you should trust your guts.
Be free to ask questions
Make a list of the storage facilities you like and visit them. Never rent a storage unit without seeing them first. When you are there, ask questions and be direct. What questions to ask? For example:
- Ask to see the exact storage you will rent (where your valuables will be). If it is not possible because someone else’s items are inside, ask to see storage that is most similar on the same floor.
- If there are some discounts? This will help you save some money when renting a storage unit. The best storage for your valuables shouldn’t be too expensive, you can always get a better deal.
- What if rent prices go up? Will it affect you or the rent will stay the same?
- What if you are late with rent? Some storage companies have a deadline of 7 days and after that, they put items in storage on auction.
What to check before renting a storage unit?
When choosing a place for your valuable items, there are a lot of things to check. Even when you are storing your regular items. Some of the tasks to check are:
- Clean storage
- Climate-controlled option
- Good security that includes video cameras, alarm, special locks, etc.
- 24/7 accessibility
- Security guards 24/7
Your storage unit must be watched 24/7 with cameras, especially if you have valuables inside
Choose a location
Location is important, but not the most important item on the list. People often choose a storage unit that is closest to their homes. But is it worth it?
Keep in mind that storages in the city are more expensive. If you have a tight budget, this probably is not a good decision. Investigate, and if you don’t need valuables that often, then better choose a location that is more affordable. In most cases, it is a place that is outside of the urban area.
Reliable moving and storage companies
Don’t pick the first company you will find. Read the reviews, feedbacks, ask for recommendations, visit a location, etc. Take time when making this decision, do not do it randomly. Also, don’t let the low price affect your decision. Of curse, don’t choose the most expensive one. The golden middle should be the best.
Most people are storing valuables when moving. It would be great to have a moving company that can offer you storages. If you want one of the companies that can offer both services, visit kloke.com.
Pack your valuables properly before you store them into a storage unit
Choosing a climate-controlled storage unit
Some valuables require special conditions (temperature-controlled space). When items are exposed to extreme weather they can be damaged, such as wooden furniture, paintings, photos, electronics, etc. The best solution is to rent a climate-controlled storage unit and you will have your peace of mind. Renting a storage unit is a good idea but only if you choose the right one – the one that will keep your items safe 24/7.
Summary
Choose the right size storage unit and check every detail before you sign the contract. When picking the best storage for your valuables, there are a lot of things to pay attention to. If you are renting it for the first time, ask for help to choose the right one. Now you know what steps to take, so it will be much easier.
