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There are literally hundreds of self-storage providers to choose from – and it can be hard to know which one is best for your needs. Are you after a short-term or long-term lease? Do you need business storage services? How often will you access the unit? Not all storage providers are created equal, which is why you need to do your homework before signing a contract. To help you out, here are six factors to consider before choosing a storage provider.
Size
Before you do anything, put together an inventory of the items you need to store. This will help you determine how much space you need. Will a locker be enough? Do you need a small warehouse? Find a provider that has a range of storage options that will accommodate your belongings. If available, use their space calculator to get an estimate. The more options they have, the better your chance of finding a unit that’s just right for your needs.
Security
If you’re storing valuables like vintage cars, collectible paintings or legal documents, make sure the provider offers a high level of security. Look for 24/7 CCTV, perimeter fencing, pin access and tamper-proof units. On-site staff is also a good idea (not all providers have them). This will ensure that your belongings are protected on all fronts – and that you can speak to someone face-to-face if you’ve got a question or issue.
Access
Your access needs will depend on what you’re storing. If you’re keeping household items or old photo albums in the unit, then you probably won’t need after-hours access. For those running a business, like plumbers and electricians, access may be required at short notice – and sometimes at night. If that’s the case, choose a facility with 24-hour access. This will give you the flexibility to come and go as you please.
Location
As a rule, you should rent a unit that is within 30 minutes of your home or office. This means that you can drop off or retrieve items quickly, and removalist costs won’t be high. Keep in mind that facilities closer to city centres are more expensive. If you want to save money by going further afield, factor in petrol costs (and traffic) and see if it’s worth the price.
Payment terms
It’s great to have flexibility when you’re storing your belongings. If you’re only using a facility for a short period, it’s best to choose a provider that offers monthly fees with no lock-in contracts. That way you can end the lease without incurring any financial penalty. On the other hand, if you’re planning to store for an extended period of time, look for contracts or deals that save you money. Some providers like StoragePlus offer a lowest price guarantee. This means they’ll match a competitor’s price, which can be handy if you’re trying to choose between two similar providers in the same location.
Services
For business owners, extra services are a lifeline. If you’re getting palettes of deliveries that need to be moved and stored, a facility that offers free forklift services is a must. Also, if you need meeting spaces, access to packing supplies and dispatch services, find a provider that offers commercial storage and warehousing. This will streamline your business and save you warehousing and courier costs!
Finding the right self-storage provider is easy once you identify your needs, budget and preferences. If you’re still weighing up your options, have a chat with our friendly team to see how our facilities and prices compare. You might even qualify for moving credit, merchandise credit or our special services discount!
Need an affordable and secure storage solution?
To discuss your self-storage needs, call the friendly team at Storage Plus today on 02 8345 6000 for Sydney or 03 9421 6900 for Melbourne. Or enquire online for a free quote.
