Question
What are some things to keep in mind when selecting a self-storage provider?
Answer
Main decision these days is pods vs. building units. Pods are more expensive, but if you anticipate uncertain and complicated multi-leg moves and need access throughout, they pay for themselves since you won't have to pack/repack. You'll need to do the math. I'd estimate that a typical full-packing/unpacking will take at least a day for a single person, a weekend for a couple, and two weekends for a family. There will also be a week of disruption. You also have the added flexibility of having them in your backyard if you happen to be stuck temporarily in a smaller place than you are used to.
That said, I've only used fixed storage units. I've never had the math come out in favor of pods, though I really like the concept of having my life inside what is effectively a small shipping container. Makes sense actually. If you are moving often enough with incomplete packing-repacking events for pods to be cost effective, chances are you're better of getting rid all that stuff and becoming a true nomad or living out of a trailer home or a self-owned trailer unit.
I just finished a move yesterday though, and the movers moved my stuff from my old storage unit to my new one in a pod. So I have involuntary pod experience. The main difference is that stuff has to be packed much better in a pod to avoid damage.
Fixed units/pod lots have the same criteria: clean, well-lit, in a safe location, with security if you have doubts. Plenty of shady people in this business, so if it is not a well known chain, make sure the owners seem trustworthy.
Ground floor is better because many movers charge for stairs, and some low multi-level units don't have elevators.
Climate control if it is a region of extremes and you expect to use the place for long enough. More household things are prone to climate damage than you might think.
24/7 access via keypad pin numbers seems to be the norm these days. In most areas, metro areas, open access lots are not a good idea.
If you are using long-distance movers at some point who will need access, make absolutely sure a full semi-truck can get in. Some lots can only handle smaller trucks.
Before taking possession, check for damp, damage etc.
Always keep the unit locked the moment you take possession, even if empty. Sometimes people who are moving out will throw junk into empty units and then you have to deal with it.
Estimating capacity needed is quite hard and requires some experience. Get movers to give you an estimate, and have them move stuff in if you can afford it. They'll pack far more efficiently than you because they know all sorts of packing tricks.
That said, I've only used fixed storage units. I've never had the math come out in favor of pods, though I really like the concept of having my life inside what is effectively a small shipping container. Makes sense actually. If you are moving often enough with incomplete packing-repacking events for pods to be cost effective, chances are you're better of getting rid all that stuff and becoming a true nomad or living out of a trailer home or a self-owned trailer unit.
I just finished a move yesterday though, and the movers moved my stuff from my old storage unit to my new one in a pod. So I have involuntary pod experience. The main difference is that stuff has to be packed much better in a pod to avoid damage.
Fixed units/pod lots have the same criteria: clean, well-lit, in a safe location, with security if you have doubts. Plenty of shady people in this business, so if it is not a well known chain, make sure the owners seem trustworthy.
Ground floor is better because many movers charge for stairs, and some low multi-level units don't have elevators.
Climate control if it is a region of extremes and you expect to use the place for long enough. More household things are prone to climate damage than you might think.
24/7 access via keypad pin numbers seems to be the norm these days. In most areas, metro areas, open access lots are not a good idea.
If you are using long-distance movers at some point who will need access, make absolutely sure a full semi-truck can get in. Some lots can only handle smaller trucks.
Before taking possession, check for damp, damage etc.
Always keep the unit locked the moment you take possession, even if empty. Sometimes people who are moving out will throw junk into empty units and then you have to deal with it.
Estimating capacity needed is quite hard and requires some experience. Get movers to give you an estimate, and have them move stuff in if you can afford it. They'll pack far more efficiently than you because they know all sorts of packing tricks.