Renting a storage unit

During relocation, you might find some items to be too large for your new home. Perhaps some belongings are valuable to you, but you don’t intend to use them any time soon. Or maybe you have to wait a few days until your new residence is ready, and you need to store your household items somewhere. Renting a storage unit when moving might be a great idea and there are several reasons why it makes perfect sense.

Reasons for renting a storage unit

Downsizing

If your new home is not big enough to accommodate all the belongings you would like to take with you which means you will be downsizing. The storage unit comes in handy in situations like this.

Deadline

Sometimes you need to move out on a certain date but your move-in date is later. You can opt for a storage unit to keep your household items until your new home is ready.

Renting a storage unit for extra items

Rent a storage unit if there are items that you would like to cast aside until some next time. Rather than getting rid of them, you can keep them safe until the time comes when you want to use them again.

Sentimental possessions

If you have family heirlooms that are valuable to you, sometimes you want to keep them aside until the time comes. Storage units are suitable for setting aside objects of sentimental value you are planning to pass on your children at some point.

Choosing between short-term and long-term storage

People are likely to hold onto things ”just in case” and sometimes putting them into a storage unit can be considered as a balancing act. Whether you are moving house or just running out of living or working space renting a storage unit is always a viable option. When you start your research you need to be aware that not all storage units are the same and also you should specify your needs and requirements. Starting sooner rather than later will help you realize what kind of storage unit is suitable for your belongings and hopefully, get one at a convenient price.

For starters, note the difference between these 2 storage services:

• Short-term storage
• Long-term storage

Deciding on the storage type and finding a proper one is never that easy. Due to lack of space, some people may turn to their friends or relatives to ask them to take care of their belongings for some time while others may prefer renting a storage unit.

When to choose short-term storage

Moving date

If you are just about to move into your home, but the unexpected delay happens and you cannot move into your new home yet. Short term storage is the right fit that will allow keeping your things for a couple of days until the issue gets resolved.

Renovation

If you are having your new home renovated or built, you can’t move in due to ongoing repair works. Therefore, a short term unit is a good place to store your belongings for some time.

Home searching

You can get storage for a brief period if you are renting while looking for a perfect place you will call home and you need your belongings stored somewhere else.

Seasonal items

Short term rent is a good fit if you are looking to keep your seasonal items away from your new home to keep it clutter-free as much as possible.

If you are using full moving services provided by a professional moving company, your short-term storage issue will be resolved efficiently, since your Dumbo NYC movers provide storage options as well.

When to choose long-term storage

Going abroad

If you are traveling abroad for an extended period or moving long-distance, but planning to save all or some of your belongings until you come back one day.

Home size

If your new home is not big enough to accommodate some items of sentimental value. Perhaps you have some things like large vintage furniture or granny’s old piano. You can store them and get them later in case you move to a larger house.

Valuable items

If you don’t have enough room to display antiques and valuables that you intend to pass on your children or grandchildren.

Avoiding clutter

If you are moving to a smaller home and want to avoid cluttering up your new place by putting bulky and oddly-shaped items in an appropriate storage facility until you need them again.

Items to keep in when renting a storage

Once you decide how many and what kind of items you need to store, you will be able to determine how much storage space you need as well as the type of storage facility.

However, before you get in touch with the storage company, make sure you have already figured out what should be tossed and what goes to storage. Always keep in mind that the key to a successful move is to organize it according to your specific needs and requirements. Therefore, ask yourself a couple of simple questions and try to be honest to yourself:

• When was the last time I used a certain item?
• Do I really need all the items that go to storage?
• Can I do without certain items?

After you think about these questions you may be surprised by how many items you don’t need or have never used at all. Just try to be realistic about your needs and keep it simple!

It’s always a good idea to sort through your possessions and declutter when planning to move. After all, moving and storing items that you won’t be using in the future makes no sense. There are several efficient ways to reduce the amount of the moving load: organizing a garage sale, giving away, auctioning off old belongings, and donating.

Furthermore, bear in mind that depending on the local regulations certain items are not allowed in a storage unit. Be mindful of the list of non-allowable while packing up your household.

Tips for renting a storage unit

A secure and clean storage facility is something that all customers aim to get. Unfortunately, it is not always the case. Have in mind the following considerations when choosing the storage unit.

Set a goal

Know exactly what you want to store and for how long so that you can choose a suitable storage unit. Ask the storage company representative whether there are more accurate ways to determine which unit size to rent, whether they can provide some kind of estimate. Reputable companies should be able to provide a moving price online, via phone or on-site. Have all the details of your storage requirements and needs in place.

Location

Do you need a storage unit for moving purposes? Perhaps you need to store unnecessary items to get some extra space. If you are moving house, you may need temporary storage for your items until you can move them into your new home. If you are going to store household belongings because you need extra space, make sure the storage unit is located close to your home. It will help to have easy access whenever you need it.

The right storage company

Ask the right questions when you contact the storage company. Just like choosing the moving company, be mindful of their professionalism, experience, and attitude. Are the site managers available and easily accessible? Do they seem professional and trustworthy? You should trust them and get good customer service before you make your choice.

Storage cost

Inquire about the pricing. Depending on the type of storage unit you need the price may vary. Also, some storage companies give discounts for long-term rental or if you pay several months upfront. Military discounts are also possible. Just make sure to know all your options. But, even if you get a discount, make sure that the price will remain the same and ask the manager whether they will raise the rent in the future. Have this statement included in the contract. It’s always better to have such important terms in writing to protect yourself and avoid surprising costs.

Reliability

Does the company have positive online reviews? Remember that a recommendation of a friend or relative can be really helpful. Let someone else’s positive experience guide you in the right direction.

Transaction

Find out which payment methods are accepted. Is online payment possible? Especially in busy times, it can be an important factor if you can make your payment online rather than paying personally every month.

Storage insurance

Does the storage company offer storage insurance? Get proper moving and storage insurance, since your household insurance may not be enough and won’t cover the items while in storage. Have all your items fully covered in case of any damage. This is helpful especially if you are storing items that are very important to you.

Renting a climate-controlled storage

Another question to ask is if you need an indoor or outdoor facility. An indoor storage unit is situated within a building. It keeps your belongings safe from the damaging effects of the bad weather and temperature fluctuation. It’s convenient for storing clothes, appliances, delicate household items, furniture, documentation, artwork, etc. An outdoor storage facility usually has drive-in access and it’s suitable for storing vehicles, garden or construction equipment, campers, boats, etc. Traditional storage units don’t have isolation against extreme temperatures and dust, pests, and debris can be an issue.

If you are storing temperature-sensitive goods, make sure to rent a climate-controlled storage unit. It will keep your items at a regulated temperature and ventilated air will be beneficial to sensitive items. Since these are inside of the building and closed to the public, they usually have security and are easy to access in case the weather outside is pretty bad.

Pack properly to keep your belongings safe and protected in storage

Prepare your belongings for storage by packing them properly. Keep them safe and protected while in storage. Pack your belongings in suitable boxes and label each one according to the content. Bulky furniture pieces should be dismantled and packed individually.

Physical viewing

Do you need 24/7 access to your belongings? If so, let the storage manager know that. Also, inspect the unit personally before signing any contract. Make sure that what you are paying for is exactly what suits your need, and the best way to do so is to see it yourself.

Explore storage options

Don’t quickly settle for the cheapest option available. Research and visit several locations before signing any contract. Weigh your options carefully and choose a facility that suits you best.

Security

Whether you are renting short-term or long-term storage, its security system must be infallible. Check whether a security code is required whenever you are accessing the facility. Also, inquire if there are security cameras and individual alarms on the doors of each unit.

Maintenance

Check if your storage unit is well-maintained? Ask the storage company provides pest control services. It is beneficial to get storage that is in good condition since you want your belongings to be kept safe.

Understand the contract

When signing a lease, make sure you understand all terms and conditions. Remember to read any fine print to reduce the possibility of unpleasant surprises. Take your time to fully understand what you are paying for and don’t be shy to ask questions.

Moving vehicle

If you have a lot of items to store you may need a moving truck. Storage companies usually offer moving trucks or vans and other moving supplies. You can even get a discount for those additional services.