Self storage is a commercial storage service that allows customers to store items in a secure self-contained space.
Self storage units are typically in the form of lockers, boxes, containers, or warehouses. Customers typically store household items that are out-of-season or infrequently used to avoid double handling. Self-storage units are convenient because they give you the freedom to store as much as you want, as long as you need it. When inside a self-storage locker, one feels a sense of privacy with their items and belongings securely boxed away from prying eyes. There is no time limit on how long your items will be stored.
Storage size | Estimated monthly cost |
|---|---|
Large closet (2.8m x 1.2m) | $220 |
Half garage (2.8m x 2.8m) | $430 |
Single car garage (4.0m x 4.0m) | $700 |
Large (4m x 5m) or 20m2) | $720 |
The type of storage unit you should choose depends on what you want to store. If it's furniture storage, documents, boxes, or general household items, then a small to medium-sized self-storage locker is more than enough room for your items. However, if it's an industrial tool or large items like a car, truck, or motorbike, then consider a large garage-sized unit that offers vehicle storage.
A standard rental agreement for storage includes frequent access to the facility 24 hours per day during office hours 7 days per week and the ability to move items in/out whenever necessary. You can also expect individual units to offer storage services such as lighting and ventilation systems installed for optimal storage conditions. Some facilities even offer full packing services and packing supplies, including shrink wrapping, boxes and bubble wrap and other storage containers.
Once you find a storage facility and pay your first rental instalment, you can move in as many items as you want from home. Staff may help load all your items onto carts for easier transportation around the storage facility. Just inform staff of your unit number, and they will guide you through the rest, including keeping an inventory list. Once you move all of your items to your chosen storage spaces, use the provided locks to secure them to avoid double handling. Then give staff a call when you are ready to remove everything from the locker.
There are a few things you cannot store in storage centres. Generally, hazardous chemicals, explosives, weapons, and anything illegal are not allowed. Also, food products are best kept away from storage facilities as they tend to attract pests.
Finally, take some time to talk with staff and find out about any promotions currently available. Some storage facilities may offer free first-month rental while others have affordable and discounted rates for returning customers. So feel free to ask around before making a decision here, as you might save money.
Since self storage contracts tend to run on a month-to-month basis, most facilities do charge penalties for early cancellation, so make sure you remain committed before signing anything. Some facilities may offer long-term storage options, but these are mostly for commercial clients with larger storage space requirements.
Most self storage facilities offer some level of storage solutions such as insurance to cover your stored items. However, this usually does not cover any damage or theft. You will need additional insurance on top of the base level offered by the facility. While some companies allow customers to store valuable items like jewellery and artworks, others may ask you to keep these somewhere else if they are particularly sensitive.
There are many ways you can work out how much storage space you need for your belongings. For example, start by measuring your larger items' length, width, and depth. Then consider any smaller pieces that will also take up some room like old books or sports equipment. You should then have a good idea of what kind of unit sizes you need to go for.
Once you have found the self storage facility for your storage needs, it's time to think about how exactly you're going to pack all those belongings into a tiny little locker with the available packing supplies (it can seem pretty daunting at first). Here are some packing tips on getting started:
Anything fragile or valuable should be packed first in sturdy cardboard boxes. Make sure to label them accordingly.
Pack your boxes tight without leaving extra space. For example, don't just fill a small box with books but try and imagine it as a bale of hay and pack the books in tightly like that. Also, make sure to tuck any sharp items away from the edges of the storage units where they could poke through.
While packing, be aware of how heavy each item is. Keep in mind that overloading your storage unit by filling it beyond capacity can result in extra fees at the end of your rental agreement.