Self-storage facilities can help you store your valuables at reasonable prices. The facilities also tend to be more secure than many other properties. However, you can only enjoy the benefits of self-storage facilities if you know how to use them. Below are five mistakes you should avoid with self-storage facilities.
1. Failing to Evaluate the Features You Need
Self-storage facilities come with different features. Some of the features include:
- Climate-controlled units to store items that are susceptible to damage from weather elements
- Security measures, such as access control, security cameras, and alarm systems to protect your belongings
- Utilities, services, or amenities such as WiFi and mail-forwarding services for commercial clients who run businesses from the storage facilities
- Outdoor and indoor storage spaces
- Storage units of different sizes
- Drive-up storage where you can drive your vehicle right up to or inside the storage unit
Some of these features are standard, while others attract premium prices. In addition, not all storage facilities offer the same features. Thus, analyze your storage needs and choose a facility that meets them best. That way, you will not pay for features you do not need, and you will not miss out on features you need.
For example, climate control is a premium feature that can protect sensitive electronics. However, you probably do not need the feature if your valuables are not climate sensitive.
2. Sharing a Unit Without Due Diligence
Self-storage units charge by square footage and features. That means you can save money if you share your storage unit with another person. However, you need due diligence before you share a storage unit. For example, you should:
- Only share a storage unit with someone you know well to minimize the risks of disagreements or threats to your valuables
- Agree with the other person on rent payments and lease signing
Otherwise, rent a small unit you can afford without sharing it with another person.
3. Failing to Pack Properly
As mentioned above, unit size is one of the primary factors self-storage facilities base their charges on. Thus, the more you can put into a storage unit, the less you will spend on your self-storage charges. Proper packing can help you improve space utilization in your storage unit. In addition, proper packing also helps protect your items from damage.
Discover a few packing tips to observe:
- Use good quality boxes that will not crumble when you stack them up.
- Use packing boxes of different sizes if your items come in different sizes
- Pack heavy and strong items at the bottom so they can support lighter loads on top.
- Get good quality padding for your fragile items.
Use every space in your storage unit, including the vertical space. For example, you can use hang things on the walls, use racks, hang things from the ceiling, and stack your boxes as high as they can go safely.
4. Storing Prohibited Items
Storage facilities have rules on what you can and cannot store in their units. For example, many storage facilities prohibit:
- Flammable or explosive substances, such as gasoline
- Illegal substances, such as illegal drugs
- Perishable items, such as fresh food
- Live things, such as houseplants or pets
Otherwise, the storage facility might terminate your lease or fine you. You might also get into trouble with law enforcement authorities, depending on your violation.
Tysons Self Storage has been active in the self-storage industry for decades. We have different storage units to satisfy various storage needs.
Contact us for a quote or further advice on self-storage. We will be happy to show you our units and help you choose the suitable ones for your needs.
