Is Self Storage Worth It?

The demand for self-storage units in Australia is on the rise due to various factors. Population growth, lifestyle changes, business expansion, growth of the e-commerce industry, and limited living spaces are some of the factors responsible.

As expected, this is why this business seems to be booming year after year. This is especially since a bit of normalcy has been restored after the pandemic. For more on the state of this industry, you can visit: https://selfstorage.org.au/.

One of the frequently asked questions about self-storage units is whether they are worth it for consumers. Well, you will certainly find out here in this article, if you continue reading.

Is A Self Storage Unit Worth The Money?

Using self-storage units comes at a financial cost. As a result, people need to figure out if it is truly worth it. To this end, here are some factors that help determine if it is worth it:

Cost

There is a growing need for businesses that offer this space rental service. This explains why the industry has witnessed an increase in the number of investors and service providers: which has led to competition.

This has led to some providers offering more affordable services to both existing and new clients. People who need these units need to take advantage of the industry’s growing competition. This is by opting for service providers that offer affordable services.

However, affordability should not come at the expense of quality as some cheap options do not have insurance coverage and other necessities. So, they are not worth being patronized as a result.

Convenience

Using self-storage units cannot be considered worth it if it is not convenient. For example, it may not be worth it if you have to go through the ordeal of traveling a very long distance to keep or pick up your stuff.

So, you may be better off with options that are better accessible. Speaking of convenience, the patronized service provider should have sufficient parking space.

Besides all these, some companies in this line of work go the extra mile by offering delivery service to interested clients. This certainly makes the use of these services very convenient.

Housing Situation

The first question you should ask is if it is possible to store the goods, belongings, or products in question at home. If it is, then you might as well choose to store them at home. However, this is not an option or a reasonable option for some people.

Some people do not have the luxury of space to store certain stuff. As a result, they have to explore the use of these rented units. Some people would also have to use these units for safety and/or convenience.

For people in either category, using self-storage units seems like a better idea compared to renting a bigger space. This is especially if you do not need the extra space for reasons besides storing the same stuff that can be kept in a self-storage unit. You can read this article for more reasons why this is the case.

Security

A self-storage unit cannot be considered worth it if security is not guaranteed. Some of the signs suggesting that a self-storage facility is secure enough include the following:

• - High–quality locks for individual units

• - Well-lit facility

• - Security systems including surveillance cameras and alarm systems

• - Regular patrols by security personnel

• - Pest control procedures

• - Periodic staff training

• - Fire safety equipment

In addition to all these, you should also search for credible reviews about the service provider. This is particularly in the area of security.

Insurance

The certainty of insurance coverage should be one of the benefits of using these units. Unfortunately, some options do not offer any or sufficient insurance to cover for damage caused by fire outbreaks, pest infestations, climatic irregularities, or other possible causes of damage to stored items.

Storing your stuff in such places is not worth it. So, do not consider it even though the chances of damage happening are very slim. It is better to never have to use insurance than to not have it when the need arises.

Stored Items

The stored items also determine if using this kind of facility is worth it. For example, some items are not a necessity as they should be sold, donated, or disposed of. Storing such in a rented space may not be worth it. Of course, this is unless they have enough sentimental value.

Store Your Stuff Securely

Having your stuff stored securely is of utmost importance if you have to use a self-storage unit. To this end, here are some tips to help ensure this:

Use a Good Facility

Do not just settle for the nearest facility or a random choice. Be certain that the service provider is committed to having your stuff securely stored. For example, the facility has to be clean at all times to prevent pest infestation. There should equally be security measures in place to prevent theft.

Furthermore, you should also opt for facilities with units that are climate-controlled. This is especially if you are storing climate-sensitive items like artwork, furniture, and electronics.

Proper Packing

You may want to use the services of professional movers while moving your stuff to or from the unit. This is because they are better at securely packing and even transporting items of all kinds. However, make sure your items are properly packed and transported even if you handle this task yourself.

The right packing items should be used for this purpose. This may include things like bubble wraps, sturdy boxes, and packing peanuts. Labeling packed items accordingly will also help.

Conclusion

Using these units can be worth it. This is depending on your needs and the choice of a self-storage facility. So, make sure you choose the right self storage facility when the need for such a rented space arises.

The tips shared in the latter part of this article will enable you to choose the right storage facility. So, you should bear them in mind going forward.