Tips For Comparing Storage Companies and Costs
Moving home can lead to you needing somewhere to store your stuff for a while. There are a lot of storage facilities located all over the country, with services and prices which can vary considerably.
There may be many storage places nearby, but how do you choose which is right for you? Let's take a look at how you should compare and decide on which storage unit to rent. There are lots of considerations, including if the storage company is nearby and how competitive their prices are in relation to other storage facilities.
What are you going to store?
When considering which storage facilities to use, you need to know what you are going to be storing. There are some rules which prevent the storage of some items. This includes flammable or dangerous objects like fireworks or explosives, for apparent reasons. The storage companies naturally don't want a fire starting, though the rules may vary between what is allowed in certain facilities.
Other items that could be prohibited include; paint, fertilizer, chemicals, gasoline, and narcotics.
If you aren't looking to store anything which could be dangerous, there are some other questions you need to know the answers to. This will narrow down your choices of storage companies and give you a better idea of the size and type of unit you need.
If you need to store boxes, how many?
Storage units are available in many sizes. The storage facility may give you an idea of how many boxes will fit in the differently sized units to help you make the right choice.
Common sizes of storage unit include; 5'x5', 5'x10' and up to 10'x20'. They are sometimes able to accommodate oversized items like boats or RVs as well. If you are unsure of the size of storage needed, contact a local company for their advice. When picking a storage unit, this will be one of the most vital considerations.
Will your possessions need protection from the weather?
If mold could damage your clothing or furniture you intend to store, you may need to use a storage company that offers climate-controlled units. These are going to be more expensive than ordinary units but will provide protection for a constant temperature. If you value your items and you intend to keep them in storage for months over the winter, this could be an essential choice.
What level of security do you need?
Many storage facilities will provide high levels of security, with video monitoring and guards. If what you want to store is only of sentimental value, perhaps you can make a saving here.
How long do you need the storage for?
Some companies offer an ongoing month by month service; others will need you to commit to 3 months or more. There are often specials run by various storage companies when you plan on staying longer. It will be a crucial part of your home storage search to compare prices and look out for the best deals available.
Do you need extra help?
Sometimes storage companies can provide help to move your items into the unit. Others offer storage bins or packing materials, and this will, of course, come at an additional cost. If you are going to need these extra services, this will reduce the options available. Self-service storage is going to be the cheaper option over full-service providers.
Make sure you have weeded out all of the things you really don't need to bring with you. One of the most significant moving mistakes is bringing stuff you will end up throwing away at a later date. A move is a perfect time to get rid of your hoarder mentality.
Do you need insurance?
You may already have home insurance, which can offer some coverage for your items in storage. There may be a limit on the amount of coverage - often up to $1000 - that you will have through such a plan.
Some storage companies provide free insurance or offer extra coverage for your possessions while kept in the facility. Understanding the insurance policy provided by the storage facility should be an essential thing to investigate.
Comparing the costs
Once you know what storage you need, it is easy to compare prices between storage companies in your area. Check their websites or use a comparison service to find the best deal. Some companies may offer discounts, including the first month free. Storage is likely to cost more in busy urban locations if you can travel out of the big cities you are likely to get a better deal on your storage.
Prices can range from as little as $12 per month to more than $100. You can expect to pay an average of around a dollar per square foot of storage space. The costs will vary greatly depending on your storage needs and location.
When you have chosen your storage provider, it's time to carefully pack up your possessions, fill up your U-Haul truck and take them to your storage unit. Just remember to keep up the payments on the storage unit, or your stuff will be auctioned off after a few months.
Final Thoughts on comparing storage companies and costs
Moving is one of the most significant expenses when you are buying or selling a home. It is well worth your time to research storage companies and their respective pricing structure. Getting a storage unit that accommodates your needs in a nearby location will be ideal for helping keep your life manageable until you find permanent housing.
Other moving resources worth reading
- Who to let know your address changed - when you are moving, one of the most vital things you need to remember to do is head to your local post office and get the change of address forms. You will then want to fill them out in detail to all the critical parties that should know about your move. The resource at Maximum Real Estate Exposure provides a comprehensive list of who should be notified.
- Steps to change your address - here are some helpful tips on how you can easily change your address. See what it takes to get the forms when you are moving.
Use these additional moving tips to make the process go a whole lot smoother from start to finish.
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