5 Tips You Need To Know When Booking Self Storage

You’re probably asking yourself, “Do I need self storage?” Whether life has thrown a curveball your way with events like divorce, moving home, downsizing, relocating for work, or dealing with a bereavement, or you're experiencing positive life changes such as starting a family, taking up a new hobby, attending university, or receiving an inheritance, self storage can be a practical solution.

There are many companies to choose from across the UK, some specialising in student storage, personal storage or business storage, though all offer a range of storage services and unit sizes suitable for a variety of needs. The storage experts at selfstoragebooker.com can help you with your online booking, or use their storage experience to help you find the perfect place to store - helping dozens of storage customers just like you with storage options every day.

As of 2023, the UK's self storage industry's annual turnover has reached £990 million, indicating a high demand for storage solutions. Here are five essential tips to consider when booking self storage.

Questions to Ask Yourself When Considering Self Storage

What Storage Do I Need?

Firstly, identify what you need to store. Whether it’s a boat, the contents of a two-bedroom house, seasonal items like Christmas decorations, BBQs, or garden furniture, business equipment, family bicycles, or paddle boards, knowing exactly what you need to store will help you choose the right type of storage. Here are some common types:

·       Outdoor Units/Containers: Large, steel shipping containers which can be used conveniently for both home and business storage. This can be an excellent solution for both temporary storage such as if you're moving home or long term storage for stock or seasonal furniture.

·       Indoor Units/Rooms: Various sizes of rooms located indoors, mostly found in urban areas. These come in a wide range of sizes, and can include temperature control, climate control or power supply.

·       Long-term Warehouse Storage Crates: Items are boxed or crated and stored in large warehouse spaces. This is usually a more affordable storage solution, however it may not be as convenient to access your belongings.

·       Mobile Storage: A container is delivered to your location, you load it, and it is then taken to a secure storage facility. This option really does make storage easy as you don't need to transport your goods to a facility as it combines the function of a professional removals service with secure self-storage.

·       Caravan Storage: Can be either indoors or outdoors.

·       Boat Storage: Includes dry storage, marinas, trailer storage, and self storage units.

·       Car Storage: Usually indoors, offering services like trickle-charge, valeting, and collection and delivery.

·       Climate-controlled Storage: For items sensitive to humidity and light, such as wine, books, artwork, and collectables.

Where Do I Store My Things?

The location of your storage unit is crucial. Ideally, you want a facility close to you to minimize travel time and costs. However, if you are going overseas for a couple of years or don’t need regular access to your items, cheaper warehouse storage or mobile storage might be more suitable.

Self storage across the UK is varied, however, you will find that storage providers help assist you with finding the space you require. Speaking to the self storage experts at selfstoragebooker.com will help you find that space you need in locations that meet your unique requirements with their unbiased recommendations.

How Easy Is It to Access My Self Storage?

Consider your access needs:

·       Do you need regular access to your belongings?

·       Would it matter if the facility is closed at certain times?

·       Do you need 24/7 access?

·       Are you storing bulky items that require easy drive-up access?

·       Will you be storing long-term without needing regular access?

Indoor facilities often offer trolleys and sometimes forklifts, while some operators provide units near the entrance for convenience, albeit at a higher cost. Others offer services to pack and store items for you. Think ahead to avoid inconveniences and wasted time.

Both indoor and outdoor facilities will have a range of opening hours. Choosing a facility with 24/7 access will ensure you can visit as often as you need, however, you may find that you can pay slightly less for a facility that is still open 7 days a week but at slightly reduced times. It's important that you consider your own circumstances when you're looking for storage as it's not a one size fits all industry.

Will My Storage Items Be Safe?

Security is a top priority for reputable self storage facilities, and it's important that you feel that your belongings are safe and protected. Check for:

·       CCTV surveillance

·       Secure perimeter fencing and lighting

·       On-site security personnel

·       Advanced security measures like vehicle number recognition, key code access, and fingerprint recognition

Additionally, ensure your items are insured. Most home contents insurance does not cover items stored away from home, so verify with your insurer or find a self storage insurance provider. Depending on the facility you choose they may also include insurance which might also help you decide where to store if you're trying to pick between a few locations.

Finally, don't forget when storing your items to protect them and store them securely. Choosing high-quality packing materials will help preserve your items in storage, many self storage facilities offer a range of packaging available to purchase on-site.

How Much Is It Going to Cost?

Cost is often the deciding factor. By answering the previous questions, you can narrow down your options and find a storage facility that fits your budget. Prices vary greatly depending on the region and specific storage needs. Remember:

·       You are renting air space, not just floor space.

·       Utilize every bit of the space to get the most value for your money.

When you book with us we will guide you through all of the options that are available in your area with units available to book instantly. We understand that conveniently located facilities are important to people whilst also wanting them to be affordable and flexible, so at selfstoragebooker.com you'll find a range of storage units that are just right for you.

Ready to make a booking?

Finding the right self storage solution involves understanding your needs, evaluating location and access requirements, ensuring security, and considering costs. By following these tips, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect storage unit. Explore your options at selfstoragebooker.com and book your storage space today- it couldn't be easier!

Ready to find the perfect storage solution? Visit selfstoragebooker.com to book online instantly or contact our self storage experts for personalised advice.