man pushing cardboard boxes in self storage area

Storage units have become an indispensable resource for people in the UK. From dealing with overcrowding in your home or business,  to moving to student accommodation or permanent home and needing extra space for inventory, renting out a storage unit could be just what’s needed to alleviate those troubles.

Most storage units rent on a monthly basis, with flexible lease agreements requiring only a few days’ notice to end their rental contract. But not all facilities offer equal storage solutions!

green storage unit warehouse

Security

Customers of storage units typically place security as their top priority, so it is vital that customers find a facility that prioritises this aspect of its business and offers layers of protection that work in concert to secure customer items. One way of measuring whether a facility values security is by asking about their access control systems. Do they feature electronic gate systems that allow only authorised people onto the property? And/or high-definition cameras capable of recording footage that could potentially serve as playback should any break-in occur?

Some facilities also provide alarms that sound if someone attempts to gain entry to an individual unit, which is an ideal feature for customers who may feel more comfortable keeping track of their keys or keeping their lock code secure from others.

Smart units are becoming increasingly popular as modern technology provides more comprehensive and connected security systems for each individual storage unit. Furthermore, these technologies can notify tenants via app or text message if their unit has been accessed, helping them stay aware of and in control of their belongings at all times.

Storage facilities must employ on-site managers who will monitor and track any suspicious activities on the property. Make sure you know their working hours as well as any plans for taking immediate action should something seem amiss.

Storage units provide more than just extra space; they’re an effective and safe way to declutter a home or office without selling or donating things you no longer use. When selecting the ideal unit to house your prized belongings, be sure to choose a unit with features to keep them safe and accessible. Labelling boxes will make finding things you tuck away easier, as will labelling their contents if they are hidden deep within. Keep in mind, however, that hazardous materials, unregistered vehicles, and weapons shouldn’t be stored within its confines!

row of filing cabinet storage boxes in white background

Convenience

Self storage units offer short-term solutions to those experiencing certain short-term situations, including home construction projects that haven’t quite finished or those buying their first house who need somewhere to put their belongings until the closing date arrives. Consumers also find self storage useful during divorce proceedings or downsizing when they don’t know where else to put all of their stuff.

Storage facilities have taken steps to enhance the customer experience by making them more convenient and accessible than ever. This has resulted in features such as 24/7 access, online rental and payment options, user-friendly technology that allows remote control of storage units, and a user-friendly interface. Furthermore, many facilities now provide value-added services such as shelving construction and truck rental and relocation assistance.

Apart from convenience, one key reason that has fuelled demand for storage units is their ability to help tenants clear space in their homes and offices, enabling them to get more done daily and live in an organised, clutter-free environment. Furthermore, storage units help make room for items you use less frequently but need stored away for future reference.

Storage facilities typically charge their tenants a monthly rent for their units, with fees generally depending on the size of each one and amenities or services that could potentially increase revenue for them. It’s essential that potential storage unit tenants conduct research before making their choice and compare prices, amenities, and services offered by different facilities before making their final choice.

One method of doing this is through the use of a storage facility size guide, which can assist them in selecting an ideal unit suited to their individual needs and then making reservations online or calling to make their reservation with a store manager or call centre agent.

Prevent customer churn by conducting credit checks before renting storage space. This will enable owners to avoid discriminatory rental practices and verify if tenants qualify for lease agreements while providing insight into whether customers will pay on time; further, conducting such a test could act as a deterrent against late payments.

Climate Control

There’s no one-size-fits-all definition for climate control in self storage facilities; its meaning varies widely between facilities. Some facilities advertise units as climate-controlled when they may not actually meet standards; others have more stringent policies in place to ensure climate-control standards are upheld. To determine whether a storage unit truly meets this definition, tour its facility and ask plenty of questions before making your decision.

Climate control aims to maintain temperatures and humidity within an ideal range in order to safeguard customers’ belongings against moisture damage. Ideally, temperatures should stay in the mid-60s throughout the winter and summer seasons, while humidity should stay under 60 percent.

Mould and mildew growth is greatly reduced through these methods, and their use also extends the life of sensitive electronic equipment as well as paper-based items like documents, books, and art.

Climate-controlled units may cost more than standard storage units, but they provide the ideal environment for most items. Their extra cost may be worth it if they need to be kept in a constant temperature range or if you live in an especially warm and humid region of the country.

Consider how long you plan to store your belongings before making your decision about renting a climate-controlled unit. If it’s just temporary clutter that needs somewhere safe to live for now, climate-controlled storage could work just fine without issue, but if it could become vulnerable due to moisture or extreme temperatures, then climate control becomes absolutely essential.

Keep your belongings organised and packed tightly together to minimise movement that could result in scratches or other forms of damage, while using moisture-absorbing products such as silica gel packs to dehumidify and protect your possessions.

Accessibility

Self storage units offer an efficient way to free up space in your home or garage and store personal belongings safely, securely, and conveniently. They’re an excellent way to protect seasonal gear, hobby equipment, and bulky furniture that may only get used occasionally. When selecting the ideal unit, it is essential that location, accessibility, pricing, and convenience all play an integral role. A quality facility should offer 24-hour access and various sizes at a fair cost, yet you should balance convenience against price depending on how often access will be needed for items stored there.