By MovingQuotes.com Staff
Mobile storage is yet another offering: a large, portable container is dropped
off at your home, you load it, and the container is either stored on your
property or at a large facility.
Location Location Location
If self-storage is your choice, consider a facility close to home. This will
save money and time if you make frequent visits.
With all options, be sure to take note of access times for your stuff. Some
offer 24-hour access, others have more normal business hours, and some
facilities, like mobile storage centers, require 24-hour notice to access your
unit. So if you’re having a 70s party, you might not be able to get your hands
on that lava lamp in time unless you plan ahead.
Size
Discuss your specific current and future needs with the storage facility. This
will help companies offer you the most suitable unit for your budget.
Security
Investigate the security measures for the facility you wish to choose. How do
they intend to store your goods within the unit itself? Are the security
measures different during regular business hours versus after-hours? What kind
of neighborhood is the storage facility in? Would you feel comfortable visiting
at off-hours?
Price
It depends on size, storage period, and any special needs. Special offers and
discounts from the storage facilities will be fewer during busy periods, and
storage companies will try to offer incentives to persuade you to commit to a
longer rental period. You’ll often find deals for the first month free; shop
around.
Don’t choose just on price; security and other factors are important as well.
Get recommendations from friends and family, and check with the Better Business
Bureau for any complaints about a company.
Insurance
Insurance is an important issue to
investigate, especially if you plan to store high-value items. Storage companies
offer their own insurance, and it is recommended to find out about the
facility's procedures in cases such as fire, flood, etc. Make sure you fully
understand how the insurance they are offering will cover any potential damage.
Also, check with your own agent to see if you renters insurance or homeowners
insurance will cover you.
Estimates
Before the storage company accepts your goods, they will supply you with a
written estimate upon your request. The written estimate is usually free, but
ask. The warehouse operator must inspect the items to be stored physically, and
issue you a copy of the estimate.
Do I Need It?
When deciding whether to store your items, consider what you really need to
keep, what can go and what may be needed some day. Keeping only what you really
need will reduce storage costs and you won't have to move them again later. Here
are some of the questions you should ask yourself:
Do I need it?
When did I use it last?
Does it have sentimental value?
Will I ever use it again?
Will you really ever repair the items that need to be repaired?
Clothing items -- if you have not worn a specific garment, will you ever wear
it?
Throw It Away, Give It Away, or Sell It
After you make your final decision regarding the items, think about how to
dispose of everything you have decided you don't need and will not store. Throw
the items out, give them away, or donate them to various charities.
Remember to get a receipt for tax purposes. Another option is to hold a garage
sale.