If you need additional space for your home or business, there are several solutions for you: you can move to a bigger place or move your less-frequently-used stuff to a storage unit so that your current space will be enough. When it comes to getting additional storage, there isn't a right and wrong answer for everybody; the best solution will depend on your unique requirements. Therefore, this article highlights two of the most important questions that will guide your final decision.
1. Do you need self-storage or portable storage?
In self-storage, you approach a storage facility in a centrally-located place and choose a storage unit according to the size you need. The unit is secured using a lock to which you're given a key, and the facilities have additional security features such as CCTV surveillance, supervision, gates and alarms/keypad entry systems. You can access this unit according to their rules: some have 24-hour admittance while others restrict it to specific hours in the day. You'll sign a lease every month and can keep the unit as long as you like.
For portable storage, a unit will be delivered to your facilities and you can store you extra stuff therein. The security of the unit depends on you, but there will be a lock on the door. You can install additional security features if you so wish.
Each system has its advantages depending on your needs. In the former, you can store away items out of sight, and it is ideal when you don't have space to hold a unit on your premises and also you don't need to access stored items frequently. It helps when the storage facilities are located close to you so they can be accessed easily when needed.
Conversely, portable storage is ideal when you need additional space to store things that you still access frequently and also have the space to hold the unit. You can also transfer the unit to a storage facility if you so wish, but there are costs attached to pick-up and delivery. You should also be living in a generally secure place since there is less security compared with the former.
2. Will you need a climate controlled unit?
Non-climate controlled units present some challenge in extreme weather conditions, especially if you're storing delicate items. Your belongings may pick up the fluctuating temperatures in these units, which is why some people ask for climate-controlled storage. Climate controlled units are more expensive, but you're assured that the temperature will be maintained within acceptable ranges for your belongings.
Whether or not you need climate-controlled units depends on what you're keeping and for how long. You should consider climate control for long-term storage and also when storing delicate belongings such as musical instruments, electrical appliances, artwork, wine among others. For short-term storage you can do without climate control, especially during finer weather.
