Whether you are downsizing, renovating or in the middle of a move, there are many reasons why you may be needing extra space and a self storage unit is a great space saving solution. If you've been considering renting a storage space, you will need to know the ins and outs of self storage and gather as much information as possible before you choose a storage facility.
The key to finding the best storage solution for you is knowing your storage situation and which features will accommodate it. Take into consideration the duration of your stay. For a short-term rental, make sure to find a storage facility that rents month-to-month.
Some factors to consider are:
What are the hours and days you are able to access your storage unit or RV space? Some storage facilities only allow access during office hours, so make sure you can get to your belongings when you need them most.
Find out what security measures they have in place. You want a storage facility that is fully fenced with security gates and security cameras around the facility are a must. Make sure the entire storage facility is well lit so if you are accessing your items when it is dark, you feel safe. A company that has after hours security patrols is a big bonus!
Keep in mind that price is affected by the features of the facility. Location is also a significant factor of price. Typically, the closer a storage facility is to a populated area, the higher the price will be.
Make sure the storage facility offers many size options so you can get the size of unit you require. You don't want to end up having to rent a huge storage unit when you only need one that's the size of a bedroom.
Location is a huge factor. Make sure the storage facility is close to you as it will be more convenient. You don't want to have to drive half an hour every time you need to get something from your unit.
What present and former customers think of the storage facility matters. Their reviews can give you a good idea of what to expect during a stay.
Before you rent a storage unit, make an inventory of everything. This will give you a better idea of the size of storage unit and type of storage unit you require. Storage facilities offer multiple sizes of units so if you are unsure, ask to see some to get a better idea.
Climate controlled storage units will cost a little more than an outdoor storage unit with drive-up access, but the extra cost is worth it if you have valuable or delicate items that you need to store. The temperature and humidity control will ensure that your items never get damaged or moldy as the temperature changes and weather will never be a problem when visiting your storage unit. You should consider a climate-controlled unit if you are storing family heirlooms, artwork, electronics, instruments, antiques, etc.
Before storing your items, you need to think about content insurance on the items you are storing. Storage facilities are not responsible for the contents in your storage unit. Check with your homeowners or renter's insurance to see if your policy will cover your belongings while in storage.
Most storage facilities can offer insurance through a third party. The insurance offered by the storage facility is usually tailored to the needs of storage and is very affordable.
There are some things you cannot store or do inside a storage unit. Storage units are made to store household and business goods like furniture, files and clothing.
For starters, you cannot store hazardous or flammable materials inside a storage unit as these could put the facility and other units at risk. Food or food like items are a big no-no. They can attract bugs and vermin and would not only affect your unit, but those around you as well. No living things are allowed to be stored in the unit such as plants or animals.
As cheap as the rent may be, you cannot live inside of your rented storage unit. Not only is it illegal, but extremely unsafe. Things such as working on a car or operating a business entirely out of your storage unit are also prohibited.
Breaking any of these rules is a violation of the terms of your rental agreement. You could be evicted from the unit immediately and depending on the circumstances, it could end up costing you financially.
Before you start, make sure you have a rough idea where you are going to put things. Whether or not you will be needing to get stuff on a regular basis makes a big difference on how to pack you storage unit. Use wood pallets and other shelving to lift everything at least a few inches off the concrete. Keeping your items off the floor will create more airflow in the unit and lower the risk of mold or mildew.
If you will be visiting your unit regularly, make sure you put the things you will be getting frequently at the front of the unit. If the storage unit is big enough, create aisles to allow easy access to everything and keep it neat and organized.
At Riel Park RV & Self Storage we have 10.5' H ceilings. Take advantage of the vertical space in your unit by stacking your stuff.
Try to use boxes of similar size for easy stacking or plastic totes work great as well. Take apart large pieces of furniture. Maximize the space by filling dressers or wardrobes with smaller items.
Make sure to find out the company's policies on cancelling your rental. Lots of places require one month's notice, so plan accordingly.
When all of your items have been removed from the storage unit, sweep it out and wipe down the walls if needed. If you leave your storage unit dirty, you may get charged a cleaning fee. Always remember to take your lock.
When you are completely done, go to the rental office and notify them that you have completely moved out and no longer need access. The staff will move you out of the system and you can be on your way.
Riel Park RV & Self Storage offers you an unbeatable combination of storage, service, security and savings. With both heated and unheated storage units, we cater to your everyday needs for personal storage, household storage, business storage; as well as outdoor parking for RV and vehicle storage. Store your RV, car, boat or other vehicle in the comfort of our secure self storage & RV facility.
A quick trip from Edmonton (via the Anthony Henday, Yellowhead Trail or St. Albert Trail) and minutes from downtown St. Albert, Riel RV & Self Storage offers a fantastic opportunity for convenience, security and unbeatable pricing.
Rent a storage unit online or call one of our storage rental experts at 780-459-6435.
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