First Time Renting a Storage Unit? Here’s Everything You Need to Know

Before renting a storage unit, it is super important to make sure that you know exactly what’s in store for you and how the process will work. Because this is something that you will be paying for, it is also incredibly important to ensure that you get the storage unit that is suited to your needs. At Rent-A-Store, we offer incredible options to suit every need, and along with that, some great discounts and offers to ensure that your belongings transition to their new space is as effortless as possible.

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Think about your budget

Once you have made the decision to hire a storage unit, the next natural step is to consider how much you are able to spend on it every month. Naturally, this needs to be a realistic number since you cannot expect to store many large items in a tiny space for a small amount of money. This is especially important to consider if the items you are storing are heirlooms or important to you since stuffing them along with other items in a tiny space might cause damage to them.

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At Rent-A-Store, we offer a quick quote online depending on your ideal location and the size of the storage unit that you think you might need. We also help you lower your costs by offering free move-in transport of either a truck or a trailer to your initial move into the storage unit.

Does the unit cover everything you need?

If there are specific items you need to store, it is wise to ask the storage rental company ahead of time to ensure the storage unit is appropriate for your goods. This is a great tip to keep in mind when you need to store a car or two or even just a few boxes. You can make use of our online space estimator by selecting one of our storage locations which can quickly help guide you to what size storage unit will be best for you.

Think about the location and access times

If you need your storage unit to store things that you are not going to be using often, then your storage location is not as important. However, if you need to house items that you might need to use more frequently, then it makes more sense to choose a unit closer to where you reside. This way, you will both cut down on petrol costs and time! If you are looking for long term storage and you do not have to access items during storage the way to save would be to pack tight and go for a smaller unit. If you are needing to input and access items regularly, you will need to spend more on additional space to pack your goods so they are easily accessible.

Before choosing a unit, you also need to make sure that the opening and closing times will suit your schedule. We do not allow access after 6 pm or before 6 am for security reasons so make sure that you are aware of the facility hours before making your way there.

Think about how long you need the unit for

If you’re planning on taking a trip, relocating or even just need a temporary rental space while you move houses, then make sure that you make this clear to your rental place to ensure that you get the best deal possible. To make sure that you don't have to keep a unit for longer than you need. This is why we offer month to month rentals as it allows for flexibility as we also understand how quickly circumstances can change. Simply put at RENT-A-STORE we only require one full calendar months prior to moving out.

Security and insurance

While most storage facilities should offer a safe and secure environment with state of the art security systems, you are responsible for the items that you choose to store in your unit. Before hiring a unit in which you plan on storing valuable possessions, it might be wise to speak to your insurance first to make sure that you’re covered in case of emergency.

What do you need to hire a storage unit?

While all storage facilities might differ with regard to what they require upon rental, the most common would be your identity document or drivers license. Most importantly, make sure that you read the terms and conditions of your rental space and that you’re happy with the agreement.

There you have it! The most important information that a first-time storage space renter needs to know!