If you’re looking for a self-storage unit, you might be overwhelmed by all your options. Most major cities have many options in many different locations, which means you have your pick of many choices. While this is generally considered a good thing, it might leave you wondering how you should go about narrowing down your options and actually picking one.
Here’s some of our best advice when it comes to choosing which storage facility is right for you.
Know your stuff.
To know what storage center is best for your stuff, you should start by knowing what stuff you want to store. You should know how much you have (a small closet’s worth? An apartment’s worth?) so that you can find the right size unit, and whether or not you’re storing any temperature sensitive items (like artwork or musical instruments) to know if you need any special requirements. Any facility that doesn’t meet your needs can be eliminated right off the bat.
Visit…or at least call.
While websites are great for finding storage facilities close to you, nothing can really compare to the experience of going to the facility, talking to the people, and seeing everything for yourself. If at all possible, make a quick visit to the centers you’re considering. If that’s not possible, you should at least call and talk to someone on the phone. You want to get a good idea of how they’ll interact with their customers and what level of service they provide.
Ask the right questions.
During your visit or phone call, make sure you ask the right questions so you’re sure to walk away with relevant information. Some questions you’ll want to be sure to ask are:
What security features do you offer (alarms, key codes, etc.)?
What size unit would you recommend for my needs?
Will I have 24 hour access to my unit?
What is the cost and how can I pay my bill? Do you require a contract?
Consider convenience.
As we mentioned, chances are good that you’ll be able to find a storage facility not too far from home. That said, there are other aspects to convenience that you should take into account when making your final decision. For example, you might want a facility that offers extended access hours, letting you get to your unit whenever you choose. Or, it might be important to you that you’re able to pay your bill online, rather than having to mail in a payment or drop off a check. Make sure you think about these things before you make your choice.
Check for cleanliness.
This is part of the reason why an in-person visit is so beneficial. You want to be able to check the cleanliness of the facility for yourself. Not only do you want to make sure your belongings will be safe from pests or other damage (by the way, be sure to ask about pest control), but noticing the center’s cleanliness might give you some insight on their attention to details.
If you’re about to commit to a storage center, it’s worth the time to do your homework and make sure you’re choosing one that fits your needs. Don’t trust your belongings to a whim; follow these steps and make a smart choice!
If you’re hunting for a storage facility in the Phoenix area, Arizona Storage Centers is a fantastic option. With a wide variety of unit sizes and features, effective security, and a high commitment to customer service, Arizona Storage Centers can meet all your self-storage needs. Stop by one of our facilities in Gilbert, Chandler, Deer Valley, Glendale, or Phoenix to learn more, or call us at 480-386-6022.
