First-timers might be overwhelmed by the many types of storage units available, but don’t let that scare you away.
Indeed, the right storage unit can provide the perfect solution to your need for extra space, whether you are moving between houses, need to keep a prized possession safe, or wish to hold your hobby materials in a safe place.
As you’re driving down the highway, you may happen to notice the neatly matching rows of storage units, looking all the same. Despite this appearance, they are actually very different.
Depending on your needs, you can find indoor or outdoor storage units or mobile storage unit, or specialty units that can be temperature controlled. It is helpful to know what factors to consider when conducting a search before you pick up the phone or go online.
With that in mind, here are a few of the most important considerations to keep in mind when choosing a storage space in Endwell, NY.
Different Types of Storage Units
With indoor storage, you enter the central building to access your unit and then proceed to the storage space you’re renting.
If your storage space is outdoors, then you won’t need to enter a central building area, as your unit will be accessible from outside.
And with mobile storage, the company brings the storage directly to your home or business. All work well, but the decision is up to you!
The Benefit of Outdoor Storage Units
The benefit of storing items in an outdoor unit is being able to drive up to its door, which is practical and convenient. If your movers charge by the hour—as most do—this will save you a lot of money on moving day.
The Benefits of Indoor Storage Units
An indoor unit has the advantage of not being affected by the weather. Are you interested in reorganizing your unit? There will be a roof over your head no matter what.
If you live in an extremely dry climate, you need not worry about dust and sand getting into the unit, and if you live in a city like Toronto, you won’t have to worry about snow in winter.
Additionally, your belongings are less susceptible to the elements. You have an extra layer of protection for your possessions against pests, water, and other elements.
Storage facilities build indoor units out of environmental and cost-saving factors. Indoor units that are climate-controlled are important if you have items to store that are temperature or humidity-sensitive.
Because indoor units are more energy-efficient and less costly to maintain, they are more common.
Thus, if you’re looking at rent costs for an indoor climate-controlled unit versus an outdoor climate-controlled unit, the indoor space will usually be less expensive.
You might also find that upper-floor units are less expensive than ground-floor spaces if you don’t mind using an elevator.
The Benefits of Mobile Storage
Here are some more benefits:
- Mobility
- Security
- Cost Savings
- Space Savings
- Weatherproof
Storage Unit Types: What to Consider
Climate-controlled storage may be needed in some cases. A storage unit that is indoors is automatically more temperature-controlled.
The elements are less of a risk for large buildings filled with individual storage units whose doors open into a room-temperature hallway than drive-up units might be.
However, before assuming that indoor units are climate-controlled while outdoor units are not, remember that climate control is just the first variable.
It’s important to note that not all indoor units come with heat or air conditioning, so check before you rent. Even though they are rare, outdoor units can sometimes have climate control.
If you care about the material of your items and how long you’ll need to store them, you should consider your storage needs. If you are using a temporary storage unit between houses for a month, then you shouldn’t have to worry about temperature control.
However, you’ll probably need to control the temperature and humidity when storing wood furniture for a prolonged period of time in order to prevent warping. Is climate-controlled storage right for you?
Storage Unit Types and Amenities for Hobbyists
Consider whether or not you will have specialty items stored in the storage unit. For instance, private collectors or restaurants may need a place to store wine when they are between locations.
If you don’t have an elegant wine cellar, climate-controlled wine storage may be the best option for you.
The right storage unit pairs wonderfully with a commercial enterprise, regardless of whether you are part of the wine industry.
Small businesses can use commercial storage units to store extra inventory, maintain temperature-controlled items, and even to provide delivery services.
Indeed, whether it’s for your prize possession or some old equipment you don’t have much use for, you’ll find space for both in self-storage. Additionally, you have the option to park your vehicle outside or indoors.
The Last Step: Choosing the Right Storage Unit Size
You must choose the type of storage unit that is right for you, but you must also select the correct size. In order to find a unit that suits your needs, you generally want to choose one that is a little bigger than you think you will need.
This way, if you miscalculate or end up adding to your possessions over time, you won’t have to deal with the problem of space.
You should choose a storage unit that will accommodate all the necessary accessories as well, whether you are storing vehicles or hobby items.
Here’s one last piece of advice: this might seem like a lot of information, but don’t let it stress you out.
Storage facilities of the highest quality offer a variety of units in various sizes and have flexibility when it comes to relocating to a larger unit.
