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Self-storage during a move 101

Self-storage during a move 101




There are a lot of reasons why you might need a self-storage unit when moving to a new home. Maybe you have to move out of your old home before the new home is ready. Maybe you have too many things to fit in the new home and need to store them until you can figure out what to do with them. Or maybe your boat needs to go in storage until you get a dock for it. In any case, it is important that you understand the types of self-storage available and how to assess whether they suit your needs.

Types of Self-Storage

There are numerous types of self-storage, but these are the most common:


• Indoor Storage Units: These self-storage units are located inside a building which you must enter. Since the building is usually monitored by a security guard, these storage units are the safest. They are also more likely to be climate and temperature controlled, thus best for items which could warp or become damaged easily
• Drive-Up Storage Units: These storage units resemble garages and usually have roll-up doors. The name comes from the fact that you can generally drive your vehicle right up to the door of the storage unit to load/unload. Depending on the size of the storage unit, you might even be able to drive your vehicle inside.
• Mobile Storage Units: These storage units are “pods” which are delivered to your home. Then you fill them with your belongings. From there, the pod can remain in front of your home (such as if you are doing remodeling and need to temporarily remove furniture) or the company can take the pods to a storage site.
• Outdoor Self-Storage: These are lots where you can store belongings such as cars, trucks, and boats. Depending on the facility, it may just be an open parking lot or it may have individual, secured and covered units.

Long-Term vs. Short-Term Storage Units

Some self-storage companies specialize in one or the other, and thus may give much better rates. Regardless of which you need, make sure to find out what happens to your belongings if you are unable to come pick them up or fail to pay the rental price.

What You Can’t Store in Self-Storage Units

There are pretty much no limits to what you can put in self-storage. However, some obvious items are prohibited – like explosives, dangerous chemicals, hazardous waste, or illegal substances. While your belongings might be allowed in a storage unit, remember that they might not be safe there. The storage unit might have leaks and, unless it is climate controlled, the weather could affect sensitive items like family heirlooms and electronics.


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