How to Choose the Best Storage Unit for Your Long Distance Move

When planning a long distance move, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right storage unit to keep your belongings safe and secure during the journey. While the idea of packing up your life and entrusting it to a storage facility can be daunting, with the right preparation and research, you can rest assured that your possessions will be well taken care of. In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to choose the best storage unit for your long distance move. From determining your storage needs to considering location and accessibility, security features, climate control, insurance, unit size and type, cost and value, reviews and referrals, we’ve got you covered. So let’s dive in and ensure your move is a success.

Determine your storage needs

Before you can select the best storage unit for your long distance move, you need to determine your storage needs. This involves calculating the amount of storage space required to accommodate all of your belongings and assessing what items you’ll be storing and for how long.

To calculate the amount of storage space needed, start by taking inventory of all the items you’ll be storing. This includes furniture, appliances, boxes, and any other miscellaneous items. Once you have a comprehensive list, estimate the total volume of your items in cubic feet by measuring the length, width, and height of each item and adding them up.

When assessing what items to store and for how long, consider whether you’ll need frequent access to certain items during the move, or if you can safely pack them away until you reach your new home. Additionally, think about the climate conditions in the storage unit and whether you need to take special precautions to protect your items from extreme temperatures, humidity, or moisture.

By taking the time to determine your storage needs, you’ll be able to select a storage unit that is appropriately sized and equipped to keep your belongings safe and secure during your long distance move.

Consider location and accessibility

When choosing a storage unit for your long distance move, you’ll want to consider the location and accessibility of the facility. The location of the storage unit is important in relation to your move because it will impact how convenient it is for you to transport your belongings to and from the unit.

If you’re moving long distance, consider choosing a storage unit that is close to your new home or along the route of your move. This will make it easier to transport your belongings to and from the unit, and can save you time and money in the long run.

In addition to location, you’ll want to consider your accessibility needs. If you need frequent access to your stored items during the move, look for a storage unit with extended hours or 24-hour access. If you don’t need frequent access, you may be able to save money by choosing a unit with limited access hours.

Keep in mind that the accessibility of the storage unit will also impact the security of your belongings. Look for a facility with secure access controls and on-site security personnel to ensure that your items are protected at all times.

Security

Security is a critical consideration when choosing a storage unit for your long distance move. You want to ensure that your belongings are protected from theft, vandalism, and other forms of damage.

When evaluating security features, look for a facility with multiple layers of protection. This can include a combination of physical security measures such as gates, fences, and walls, as well as electronic security features such as surveillance cameras, motion detectors, and alarms.

Some storage units offer individually alarmed units, which provide an extra layer of security by alerting facility staff and emergency services in case of unauthorized access or suspicious activity. Additionally, look for storage units that offer on-site security personnel or 24/7 monitoring to provide an added sense of security.

When it comes to locks, consider using a high-quality padlock or combination lock to secure your unit. Some storage facilities offer locks for purchase or rent, while others may require you to bring your own.

By choosing a storage unit with strong security features, you can rest assured that your belongings are protected and secure during your long distance move.

Climate control

Climate control is another important consideration when choosing a storage unit for your long distance move. Climate-controlled storage units are designed to maintain a stable environment that protects your belongings from extreme temperatures, humidity, and moisture.

Items such as electronics, wooden furniture, and delicate fabrics are particularly susceptible to damage from changes in temperature and humidity. Exposure to high levels of humidity can cause mold and mildew growth, while extreme temperatures can cause warping, cracking, and other forms of damage.

In a climate-controlled storage unit, temperature and humidity levels are carefully regulated to prevent these types of damage from occurring. This is achieved through the use of heating and cooling systems, dehumidifiers, and insulation.

When choosing a storage unit, consider the climate conditions in your area and the type of items you’ll be storing. If you’re storing items that are sensitive to temperature and humidity, such as antique furniture or artwork, a climate-controlled unit is essential to protect your investment.

By choosing a storage unit with climate control, you can ensure that your belongings are protected from the damaging effects of extreme temperatures, humidity, and moisture during your long distance move.

Insurance

Insurance is an important consideration when choosing a storage unit for your long distance move. While storage facilities take steps to protect your belongings, accidents can still happen. That’s why it’s important to have insurance to protect your stored items from damage, loss, or theft.

Some storage facilities offer their own insurance policies, while others require you to purchase your own insurance. Before choosing a storage unit, be sure to ask about insurance options and requirements.

Different insurance options provide varying levels of coverage and benefits. For example, some policies may offer full replacement value coverage, while others may only cover a percentage of the item’s value. Some policies may also have exclusions or limitations on certain types of items, such as high-value items or antiques.

It’s important to carefully review the terms and conditions of any insurance policy before purchasing it to ensure that you have adequate coverage for your stored items. You may also want to consider bundling your storage unit insurance with your existing homeowner’s or renter’s insurance for added protection and savings.

By having insurance for your stored items, you can have peace of mind knowing that you’re protected from unexpected events during your long distance move.

Unit size and type

When choosing a storage unit for your long distance move, it’s important to select the right size and type for your needs. Different types of storage units offer varying features and benefits, while the size of the unit determines how much space you’ll have to store your belongings.

Common types of storage units include traditional self-storage units, climate-controlled units, and portable storage units. Traditional self-storage units are typically the most affordable option and come in a range of sizes, while climate-controlled units offer added protection from extreme temperature and humidity. Portable storage units are convenient for long distance moves because they can be transported to your new location.

When selecting the right size and type of storage unit for your needs, consider the amount and type of items you’ll be storing, as well as your budget and any specific requirements you may have.

Tips for selecting the right size and type of storage unit include:

• Make an inventory of your items to determine how much space you’ll need
• Choose a type of storage unit that offers the features and benefits you need
• Consider the location and accessibility of the storage unit
• Look for a facility with multiple size options to ensure that you find the right fit
• Avoid overpacking your unit to prevent damage to your items and ensure proper ventilation

By taking the time to carefully select the right size and type of storage unit for your needs, you can ensure that your belongings are safely and securely stored during your long distance move.

Cost and value

Cost and value are important considerations when choosing a storage unit for your long distance move. While you want to find a unit that fits within your budget, you also want to ensure that you’re getting the most value for your money.

To balance cost and value, start by setting a budget for your storage unit rental. Look for storage facilities that offer transparent pricing with no hidden fees or charges.

When comparing prices, consider the value you’re getting for your money. For example, a slightly more expensive storage unit with climate control and better security features may provide better value in the long run by protecting your items from damage or theft.

To get the most value for your money, consider the following tips:

• Look for move-in specials or discounts for long-term rentals
• Choose a storage facility with high-quality security features to protect your belongings
• Consider bundling your storage unit insurance with your existing insurance policies for added savings
• Read reviews and get referrals from friends and family to find a reputable storage facility with good customer service

It’s also important to be aware of hidden costs that can add up over time. These can include fees for late payments, lock rentals, and administrative costs. Before signing a rental agreement, be sure to carefully review the terms and conditions to understand all associated costs.

By balancing cost and value and identifying hidden costs, you can find a storage unit that fits your budget while providing the best possible value for your money during your long distance move.

Reviews and referrals

Reading reviews and seeking referrals can be an effective way to find a reputable storage unit for your long distance move. Reviews and referrals provide insights into the experiences of past customers and can help you make an informed decision about which storage facility to choose.

When reading reviews, look for patterns in the feedback. Are there recurring issues or complaints, or do most customers have positive experiences? Be sure to read both positive and negative reviews to get a balanced view of the facility.

Referrals from friends and family can also be a valuable source of information. Ask around to see if anyone you know has used a storage facility in the past and can recommend one.

To find and evaluate online reviews, start by searching for storage facilities in your area and reading reviews on websites such as Yelp, Google, and Facebook. Look for facilities with high ratings and positive feedback.

When evaluating referrals, ask questions about the person’s experience with the storage facility. What did they like and dislike about the facility? Would they recommend it to others?

By reading reviews and seeking referrals, you can find a storage facility with a reputation for providing excellent service and keeping your belongings safe and secure during your long distance move.

Conclusion

In conclusion, selecting the best storage unit for your long distance move requires careful consideration of several important factors. To recap, we covered the following key points:

• Determining your storage needs by calculating the amount of storage space needed and assessing what items to store and for how long
• Considering location and accessibility needs for frequent access or not
• The importance of security features, including different types of security measures such as cameras, alarms, and locks
• The benefits of climate-controlled storage units for protecting your items from extreme temperatures, humidity, and moisture
• The importance of insurance for protecting your belongings from damage, loss, or theft
• How to select the right size and type of storage unit for your needs
• Balancing cost and value when selecting a storage unit by being aware of hidden costs and getting the most value for your money
• The importance of reading reviews and seeking referrals to find a reputable storage facility

To select the best storage unit for your long distance move, be sure to carefully consider each of these factors and prioritize your specific needs. Additionally, here are some final tips and recommendations:

• Start your search for a storage unit early to ensure availability
• Take a tour of the facility before signing a rental agreement to check for cleanliness and overall condition
• Pack your items carefully to prevent damage during transport and storage
• Label your boxes clearly to make it easier to find what you need later

By following these tips and recommendations, you can find a storage unit that meets your needs and ensures the safe and secure transport and storage of your belongings during your long distance move.