Self Storage Options: What’s best for you?
Homeowners and renters are always looking for more room. No matter how large your home, chances are that you have more stuff than space. Some days, finding your car keys among all those things can make you late to work or an important appointment. All that clutter may reflect general storage needs or indicate that you have precious items to protect.
If you are moving, portable units may be the way to go. If you have recently moved, you may need temporary storage until you get things sorted. Luckily, you have a number of self-storage options that are affordable and capable of keeping your possessions safe and well-preserved. A moving & storage company like Ayer Moving and Storage can also help save your sanity.
Storage Unit Types
One size unit does not fit all. You can choose from several types and sizes of storage units, some that combine with your moving package.
Self-Storage Units
Self-storage units can be found nearly everywhere. They are a thriving industry and offer you easy access to your items. They can be used for brief periods of time, while you are waiting for a new home to be ready, for instance, or for long-term storage. You can choose from a variety of sizes and rent them per month. Prices differ according to your location and whether or not the unit is climate-controlled.
These units can be used to store automobiles, furniture, collectibles, etc. Some locations even allow you to run a small business from their units. Renters sometimes use climate-controlled units as offices and personal gyms, allowing them the space they need without moving into a larger house or renting expensive commercial space.
For those in Massachusetts, Ayer Moving and Storage offers safe, clean and roomy storage units for rent.
Portable Container Storage (COWS)
Some storage companies offer temporary portable storage units that can be left somewhere on your property. You can rent and use them in the same way you would a traditional unit without spending time traveling to and from the facility. A storage pod can be the perfect place to store a college student’s belongings while they are away at school. Or you can use it for your elderly parents’ items or your own projects.
If you are moving, you can opt for a storage pod that allows you to pack and unpack your possessions at your leisure. Moving is stressful, and being able to extend the packing time gives you time to properly organize your storage for easy unpacking. The storage company is responsible for pickup and delivery of these units, simplifying the moving process for you.
These units are particularly versatile because you can use them for a few days, months or years, and they have the effect of adding an extra room to your property.
Ayer Moving and Storage offers their own version of portable units called COWS (Containers on Wheels). You can rent these 8-foot or 16-foot containers by day, week or month.
Cost-Cutting Measures
If the monthly rent of storage seems too high for your budget, you can use methods to cut the monthly cost. Experts recommend that you declutter as much as possible before you rent your unit. Once you have gotten rid of everything you do not need and will not use, you will find a smaller, less expensive unit will work for you. Remember, if you have not used or even looked at an item in a year, you probably don’t need it. Consider making generous donations of your items to local charities.
Also, decide to share a unit with members of your family or close friends. Most people need additional storage and would be willing to put $25-$40 each month toward a unit. Of course, you need to choose your partners wisely. Share with someone you trust and who avoids unnecessary squabbles. Your grumpy uncle Orville might not be the best choice.
Choosing Your Units
You need to compare prices before you choose your unit, but you should take other factors into consideration as well. Think about the following:
- Distance to the facility. This issue really matters if you will be accessing the unit frequently. Anything over 5 miles away will require significant time and gas to visit.
- Security. The facility should have security cameras and excellent locks. Those units with a keypad offer you an extra level of safety. You may want to choose a facility where the staff is on site 24/7 or one with a security guard at night.
- Weatherproof. Your unit should be dry and safe from flooding and leaks.
- Well-maintained. Your unit should be clean, rust-free and bug-free. You are responsible for maintaining your items, as well. Use pallets, plastic, and cloth to protect your possessions.
If you are living in a cramped and cluttered space, consider renting a storage unit to give you and your family more living space. You may not be able to afford a larger home, but a small monthly fee can essentially add to your square footage. For those who are moving or need more convenient storage, a portable unit can greatly simplify your life. Self-storage gives you many options to solve your space issues.
