Talking About Placing Collectibles In Storage

Posted on: 15 August 2017

When you need to put some of your belongings into storage, you are going to want to make sure that you find the right storage unit that will fit your belongings, keep them safe and fit your budget.

#1 Measure The Unit

The storage company may tell you that the unit is 10x10, but it is always best to check the measurements, especially if you have large items you want to store in the unit. For example, the unit may be short by a couple of inches, or it may be larger by a couple of inches. These tiny discrepancies are to be expected. To ensure that your items will properly fit, measure the specific unit you want to rent. Measure the height of the unit if you want to stack up your items. Measure the door opening as well to ensure you can get your belongings through the door.

Then, go home and use masking tape to create a space with those exact measurements. Be sure to take into account the opening of the door to the unit. Test out the size of the space you are interested in renting by putting the items you want to store inside of the taped-off area. If you can't comfortably fit your items, consider upgrading the size of the unit you rent.

#2 Check The Lock

Next, check the lock holder on the unit you specifically want to rent. Although you are typically responsible for providing the lock for the storage unit, the lock holder is provided by the storage unit itself.

If the lock holder is loose or the metal looks worn out and thin, see if the storage center can repair the lock holder. By simply tightening up the screws or by replacing the lock holder, they can make the unit you are looking at more secure. 

#3 Check For Flooding Potential

Third, check for flooding potential. You don't want to have a unit that will flood easily. Make sure the door has a solid seal on it to prevent water from getting into the unit. Also, make sure the cement is not slopped down towards the unit. If it seems like the flooring slopes down towards the unit, water could easily pool up on the outside of the unit and slip under the door.

Most storage units have cement flooring, so even if flooding is not an issue, moisture can still collect on the floor of your storage unit. Consider investing in some pallets. Many people put pallets down on the floor of their storage unit to ensure that naturally occurring moisture and accidental water leaks do not damage their belongings.

#4 Check The Security

Next, check out the security offered by the self-storage facility. Do they have a controlled entrance onto the storage facilities? Do you need to have a passcode or swipe card in order to enter the storage facilities? Do they keep records of who comes and goes? Do they use cameras to keep an eye on things?

Asking these questions will give you a solid idea of if the self-storage unit will be able to protect your belongings and keep everything safe for you.

#5 Find Out About Extra Fees

Finally, look into any extra fees beyond the rental price advertised for the unit. For example, there may be an administration fee, taxes or a processing fee depending upon your form of payment.

Also, find out if the storage facility offers insurance for your belongings. If you don't have renter's insurance or home owner's insurance, purchasing insurance from the storage facility is a smart move to protect your belongings.