Self-Storage Tips for New Renters
Published on 2022-09-26
At Manitoulin Storage, we understand that not everyone is aware of what renting a storage unit involves. This is why we always strive to make the renting process as simple as possible for both new and returning customers by educating them on how to get the most out of their storage unit.
We're providing a number of useful tips and recommendations for each step of the storage rental process, from selecting the best unit for your needs to packing your items to vacating your unit once you no longer require your rental.
Best Practices When Choosing to Rent a Storage Unit
1. Determine the size of the storage unit you need.
More often that not, people will make a mental estimate when they choose to rent a storage unit out of urgency. However rushing into a rental agreement based on an estimation can end up costing you money as you may end up with a space that's larger than what is actually required. By contrast, underestimating the size of the area you need can cause unneeded stress because you'll end up running out of space before you finish unpacking your items.
Before you rent a storage unit, it's best to create a rough inventory of everything you plan to keep in your unit and for how long. Taking measurements of larger items will also help you better estimate the size and type of unit you require
2. Decide if you need Indoor or Outdoor Storage
There are two primary type of storage units you should consider before renting: Indoor vs. Outdoor. Generally, an outdoor storage unit will cost you less than an indoor unit of the same size. However, the type of unit you choose depends almost entirely on what types of items you are planning to store in it. For instance, renting an indoor unit is usually in your best interest if you have a lot of delicate belongings.
The main advantage of having an outdoor storage unit (such as the units available at Manitoulin Storage) is that you're able to drive right up to it, which makes it convenient and easily accessible. The disadvantage of an outdoor unit is that weather plays a major factor in situations such as moving in, moving out, or grabbing any items you may need.
3. Shop Around for Tenant Insurance
Similar to buying insurance for your apartment, you can also purchase insurance for your storage unit.. Rental insurance protects your property against loss or damage. There are a few different ways to attain coverage for your storage unit:
- If you already have a renter's insurance policy in place, ask if you can add your storage unit rental property to your existing plan
- Add the storage unit to your homeowner's insurance
- Purchase third-party insurance through another company
How to Properly Pack your Storage Unit
1. Take simple steps to ensure your belongings are kept as safe as possible
There are several simple self storage tips you can follow to keep your items as secure as possible. One of the easiest things you can do is make sure you purchase the best padlock that money can buy. Some locks are much easier to break into than others. It's also a good idea to make sure you are fully aware of what is being kept inside your storage unit at all times.
2. Organize everything in your unit for easy access
Customers who are renting a storage unit for the first time frequently overcrowd their unit without any forethought and planning involved. This behaviour quickly changes once a customer vacates a unit for the first time or when they begin searching for a specific item with no idea where it ended up.
It's best to have a general idea of where you're going to store things and how they're going to be organized before you start moving in your belongings. Create aisles and move larger items in first so that everything is easily accessible if necessary.
Having a working inventory on hand is also extremely useful, especially if you include a diagram that outlines where certain items are located.
3. Ensure that items are stored correctly
There is usually a suitable method and an incorrect one when storing each individual object. You should generally abide by the following self-storage advice:
- Keep as much as possible off the floor. Use Wood pallets or other shelving to lift all your boxes and items at least a few inches off the concrete
- Never use cardboard boxes that stored perishable items. Consider using plastic totes instead.
- If you're storing fragile items such as wood instruments or classic cars, consider investing in a climate-controlled storage unit
Tips for Vacating your Storage Unit
1. Give Proper notice before you move out
If you are only planning on renting for a short period of time, it's best to ask what the policy is for canceling your rental. This makes it easier to plan ahead and make decisions based on the cancellation policy you agreed upon in the lease.
2. Make sure you don't break the rules you agreed to within the lease you signed
There are standard rules that apply at most storage facilities, and Manitoulin Storage is no outlier to these regulations. Breaking these rules or any terms of your signed contract can result in eviction or even your items being auctioned off.
These rules include but are not limited to:
- Living inside a storage unit is not permitted under any circumstances
- Unless you are renting a Commercial Unit, you're not allowed to conduct business from your storage unit
- Storing Gasoline or using large power tools is not permitted
- Storing firearms, fireworks and/or other items which are deemed explosive is not allowed
3. Understand your rental payment schedule.
Similar to any type of rental unit, it is of the upmost importance that you pay your rent on time. If you are someone who often has trouble remembering to pay bills, inquire about an auto-pay option. Ask the Self-Storage staff what other things you should be made aware of before renting.
Additionally, you should ensure you read your entire contract word for word, so there are no surprises. Most Self-Storage Companies will charge late-fees, and after a certain period has passed with no payment, the items in your unit can be auctioned off and sold.
