Pros and cons of using a self-storage space
Whether you’re moving and your new home is not yet ready or you just wish to store some of your excess belongings, you are most likely looking into a self-storage space as one of the options to house your things in the meantime. You may have no prior experience with self-storage and feeling naturally unsure whether it is the best choice for you. Before you pay the first months’ dues and sign on the dotted line, you should know that just like with anything else, there are both pros and cons of using a self-storage space. The pros may greatly outweigh the cons for you, or vice versa, but you won’t know until you learn what they are. To help you make the best decision, we have created a list of pros and cons of using a self-storage space. Please continue reading below for more options.
Pros and cons of using a self-storage space
Hundreds of thousands of people in America rely on self-storage to store their belongings each day. It is a great way to expand a somewhat personal space for your less frequently used things that you can, for the most part, access at your convenience. Therefore, it’s only right to begin our list with the pros of using a self-storage space.
PROS
- The obvious perk of using a self-storage space, is the added space you will now have to store your personal belongings, sparing you of having to make the tough decision to either sell or donate them. Being able to hold onto precious childhood memories, or family heirlooms is very important to most people. Self-storage allows you to do that.
- Self-storage facilities are great for relocations! Temporary housing relocations, home downsizing, and work related moves could all greatly benefit from a self-storage space. It provides a relatively inexpensive way for you to store your things on a short notice, while you’re going through the necessary transition.
- For the most part, you can rely on storage facilities to keep your belongings protected from outside elements and pesky infestations. While damage from both has definitely affected people in the past, be sure to thoroughly research the storage of your choice and schedule a walkthrough to ensure the facility is safe and clean. If the items you wish to store are sensitive to temperature changes, make sure the storage of your choice provides climate-controlled units. Generally, fragile items such as antique will require a climate-controlled space to retain its original condition.
- Although storage burglaries do happen, your belongings are for the most part safe behind a steel gate and key code combination that only you have knowledge of. If you are storing high value items and security is of most importance, look for a facility that provides maximum-security storage, with 24-hour surveillance systems.
- Storage facilities provide insurance in case any of the above unfortunate events take place. This will give you a peace of mind and a reassurance your things are safe even when they are not in your home and within a hand’s reach. Keep in mind that not all storage facilities provide insurance, to take advantage of this option, be sure to seek out a facility that does.
- You can rent a storage unit for an unlimited amount of time. Whether it is a month, a year or two, you can rent a unit for as long or as little as you need. Some facilities will even offer a discount if you rent for an extended period of time.
- If you suddenly require a smaller or larger unit than your current one, you can easily request to be transferred to the unit that best suits your needs. Mot self storage facilities require very little notice in advance in order to terminate rent, downsize or rent larger units.
Pro Tip Please keep in mind; while all of the above attributes of a self-storage space make renting one appealing, not all of them are built the same. Know your options, and choose the facility with features that take care of your needs.
CONS
- The costs of moving your things into storage are not included in the rental price. If you don’t have too many items, you may just be able to get away with using your car. If you have a lot of stuff, you will have to either hire professional movers, or rent a truck and get helpers to help you.
- The temperature inside a self-storage unit is sensitive to the weather outside. Unless you’re renting a temperature-controlled unit, the items inside will surely be affected by the cold and heat conditions of the weather outside. Be sure to only store items in regular units that will not be susceptible to inclement weather changes.
- Not all self-storage facilities allow 24-hour access. If you urgently need to get something out of your unit, but it is after hours, you will have to wait till the next morning. If you require access at all hours of the day, make sure the facility provides this option.