How to Pick a Good Self-Storage Facility

Many people choose a self-storage facility to unclutter the home, store possessions while they buy or sell a house, or to keep items while abroad. Self-storage facilities can also be used by businesses to store documents, furniture and equipment. Whatever your storage needs, make sure to do research and take time to pick a good facility. 

• Check your local yellow pages or go to the Internet to find local self-storage facilities. Call around for more information. Compare them taking into consideration rental fee, location, number of units available, access hours, and climate control.


• Give priority to a storage facility that is easily accessible.  Some people are willing to pay a little more in rent just to have their items closer to home. If there is not a facility nearby, then look into those located on a highway you frequently travel. Accessibility is less important if planning to store items for an extended time period, or if you go abroad and need to store personal possessions.


• Ask about monthly fees. Price is the determining factor for many people. Ask if they accept checks, credit cards or cash. Make sure they give you a receipt for payment. If you are leaving the country, ask about the best way to handle payments. Perhaps they can take credit card payments over the phone, or let you pay ahead for the full period you are abroad.


• Make sure the access hours are convenient. Some self-storage facilities have office hours between 8 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday. Many will grant clients a gate code to access their units 24 hours a day, seven days a week.


• Choose a safe location.  Avoid areas that may have high criminal activity. 


• Check on the security of the premises. Are security cameras installed throughout the property? Does the facility have an alarm system? Are the units individually alarmed? Obviously you want your possessions to be safe, and these questions are important.


• Pick a self-storage unit that is climate controlled. Humidity and severe hot or cold weather can damage books, photographs, clothing, artwork, wood or leather furniture, computer equipment, electronics and business documents.