We all have a hoarder hiding in us somewhere. We all have more than we need, whether we are book hoarders, shoe collectors, or just people who want to have sentimental objects around. Storage is a convenient way for storing your stuff while you are on the trip of your life. On average, an American owns about 300,000 belongings. And most of these belongings are taking up space in our homes. 23% of bills are paid after the due date because the homeowner couldn’t find them among the clutter. So, if you’re running out of space, it might be time to consider renting a storage unit. But how can you tell which storage unit is suitable for you?

Below are some tips to help you pick the right storage unit.

What Kind of Storage Unit Do You Want?

Your storage requirements will determine the type of storage unit you’ll need.

1. Traditional on-site storage units are typically found in large warehouses. These storage units come in different sizes, so you can pick one depending on how much stuff you have.
2. Portable storage units are becoming increasingly popular. A company will deliver a storage container to your home with this storage unit. You can then pack it at your own pace and schedule a time for the company to pick it up and store it.
3. Shipping containers are the most secure type of storage unit. They’re made of steel and can be locked with a padlock. They’re also the most expensive type.

Your location also contributes to the storage units that best suit your needs. For example, suppose you’re in Salida, where dust storms and crimes like robberies are common. In that case, a dust-proof shipping container with additional security will be your best bet. Check out salida airport storage; they offer some of the best storage units in town.

What Do You Want to Store?

You probably have a lot to take care of, but deciding where to start will help you immensely. If you want to declutter your space, starting with the larger items that take up the most room is best. It could be your old and dusty exercise equipment, holiday decorations, or that extra furniture you never use. Once you’ve taken care of the larger items, you can move on to smaller items like boxes of clothes, books, or knick-knacks. It will help you determine the size of the storage unit you need and how much stuff you have.

Suppose you’re looking to store valuable items. In that case, you’ll need a storage unit with additional security features like an alarm system, video surveillance, or on-site security. These items could be family heirlooms, electronics, jewelry, or important documents.

How Long Do You Need to Store Your Belongings?

Are you looking for long-term or short-term storage? The duration for which you need to store your belongings will help you determine the type of storage unit you need. For example, a portable storage container will suffice if you only need to store your belongings for a few weeks or months. These are perfect for people who are moving or renovating their homes.

A traditional storage unit will be a better option if you need to store your belongings for longer. These are typically rented monthly, so you can keep your belongings for as long as you need.

What is Your Budget?

Your budget will determine the type of storage unit you can afford. A traditional storage unit will be your best bet if you’re on a tight budget. These are typically the most affordable option.

A shipping container is perfect if you want the best option, regardless of the price. Usually, the cost of shipping containers is based on the size and features you want.

How Far Are You Willing to Travel?

Are you storing items that you’ll need to access often? If so, you’ll want to choose a storage unit close to your home or office. Then, you won’t have to travel far to retrieve your belongings. In addition, it’ll save you time and fuel costs.

However, if you’re not planning on accessing your belongings often, you can choose a storage unit further away. Ensure you factor in the cost of transportation when selecting a location. Of course, you must always prioritize close and easily accessible storage units. But don’t let it be the defining factor if it means compromising on other essential elements.

Look for Good Deals and Policies:

You never thought there’d be packages and deals on storage units, but there are! Many storage companies offer discounts and coupons, so ask about them. For example, you could get a free month of storage or a discount on the price. It never hurts to ask.

Besides deals, you also need to know the late payment policies. You don’t want to be charged extra fees because you were late on your payment. Read the fine print and ensure you know the company’s policies before signing a contract.

Inquire About Insurance:

There are cases where your belongings could get damaged while in storage. Bug infestation, fire, water damage, and theft are just some of the things that could happen. To protect your belongings, you need to inquire about insurance.

Most storage companies offer insurance for an additional fee. But, some include it in the price of the storage unit. So, it’s important to know what type of insurance is offered and how much it will cost. This way, you can decide if it’s worth it or not.

Take Your Time:

Don’t rush into renting a storage unit. Take your time to compare different storage units and companies and always read reviews and ask for recommendations. Mostly, first-hand experiences are the best way to get an accurate idea of what a storage unit is like.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. The staff at the storage facility will be more than happy to answer any questions you have. They want you to feel comfortable with your decision.

If you have trust issues, your friends and family can help you. Ask them if they know anyone who’s rented a storage unit before. They may have some recommendations for you.

Wrapping Up:

Parting with your belongings can be tough, even for a short period. But, keeping them all in the house can eat away a lot of foot space. So, what’s the solution?

The answer is simple: storage units! These are perfect for decluttering your home or office. Just make sure to choose the proper storage unit for your needs. Then, consider the factors we discussed, and you’ll be on your way to a stress-free life.

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