If you’re considering self storage, you probably have some questions, but you may not know where to turn to get the answers you need. That’s where we come in!
We’re your comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about self storage, including what it is, how it can help you, and what factors should influence your choice of self storage facility in an industry with many options.
What is Self Storage?
The self storage industry is responsible for leasing space, known as storage units, to tenants. Self storage facilities are a practical way to store items that are not used regularly. However, self storage units are also used by many businesses, such as online retail stores, to store and dispatch their stock.
While some storage facilities have on-site managers, and sometimes require an insurance deposit, self storage facilities do not tend to have these features; instead, self storage is more like a large warehouse that is accessible 24/7.
These warehouses vary in size from single room lockers to multi-story buildings where customers can rent rooms or floors for storing larger items depending on their individual needs
The Different Types of Self Storage
Your options will vary depending on where you are located and what you need to store. Your location will have an impact on factors like price, security, and access. Climate can also be a factor in whether you choose an indoor or outdoor unit.
If your storage needs change over time, a flexible lease can make it easier for you to adjust. For example, if you’re moving or downsizing soon, but don’t know exactly when (or even if) that will happen—it could be better to take a multi-level self storage facility with multiple short-term leases rather than one long lease.
Benefits of Multi-Level Facilities
Multi-level storage facilities offer some benefits that traditional facilities don’t. They can be used for short- or long-term self storage, have a greater temperature range than regular lockers and are built with security in mind.
With multiple levels of access for each customer, you won’t need to worry about forgetting your combination or leaving your lock at home; you can come and go as you please without needing keys.
If you feel uncomfortable storing valuable items in an unmonitored facility, multi-level storage gives you peace of mind that not just anyone has access to your belongings.
Also, if your needs change frequently (for example if you store different things at different times), multi- level storage makes it easy to swap out materials without having to pack them up every time.