Over 35 million Americans or 11.1% of the population own a storage unit. There are over 51,206 facilities available with over 2.05 billion square feet of rentable space. Storage units are so in demand that finding one feels like securing land in the Wild West. You need a map to know where to go and put your flag down as soon as possible. Let us guide you through your options. Read on to learn how to choose the best storage units in Mt. Juliet.
Find the Right Type
There are so many types of storage units that it can be difficult to choose between them, but it’s a matter of answering two questions. What items do you need to store, and for how long?
Short-Term and Long-Term Storage
Choose short-term storage units if you need them briefly, such as when you’re moving or in the middle of a home renovation. They also have more flexible rental terms.
Long-term storage units are for items you need to keep stored for months or even years. They can be more cost-effective and offer more options, such as climate control.
Climate-Controlled Units
Climate-controlled storage units regulate their temperature and humidity. In Mt. Juliet, the climate varies from 27-88° throughout the year.
These changes can harm or even ruin sensitive items such as heirlooms, instruments, and art. Wooden items are particularly vulnerable.
Climate control protects them and helps maintain their value. You won’t have to pay for replacements or repairs.
Climate-controlled storage units vary in price from $85-$285 per month. It varies depending on factors such as size, but it’s often more affordable than paying rent at another building or replacing your belongings.
24-Hour Units
24-hour storage units offer no restrictions on when you can access the items inside. You can conveniently get to them any time of the day.
You may not be the only one trying to get into these always-open units. That’s why they also offer extra security features such as:
- Video surveillance
- Lights
- Security fences
- Guards
A 24/7 storage unit is useful for businesses who want to store overstock and easily access it. It helps contractors keep their concrete or equipment within easy reach. It gives homeowners space for items they use but don’t have room for.
Vehicle Storage
25% of Americans with two-car garages don’t have enough room to put two cars in them because of clutter. 32% only have room in the garage for one vehicle.
Instead, they can rent storage units specialized for vehicles such as cars, boats, or RVs. They can be covered or uncovered, offer improved security, and may even provide charging for electric vehicles.
Choose the Right Size
Renting a unit that’s too large drains your wallet. Not having enough space will leave you feeling claustrophobic or force you to pay to rent more space.
When choosing a size for your storage unit, look at the size guide on the facility’s website. That should give you an idea of what options they provide, and look for detailed descriptions. Another rule of thumb is to get a storage unit one size smaller than your moving truck.
Measure your items, pack strategically, and keep an inventory of everything you have. Place the items you’ll use most in the front so they’ll be easy to access. Leave enough space so that you can move around, get enough ventilation, and add more items later.
Visit the Facility
Once you’ve found a few of the best storage units in the area, give them a visit. Look at the facility and check out their options.
Make sure that they’re all clean and properly ventilated. See if they offer climate control and other features you may need.
Remember that security is key for any self-storage facility. This includes outside and indoor protection.
Look for a lock or alarm system. There should be no gaps in the doors or walls. Signs of damage such as broken or newly installed locks are red flags because they hint at previous break-ins.
Get Insurance
Homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policies may cover up to 10% of items in your storage unit. Storage facilities may offer a third-party policy. It won’t cover everything and may not reimburse you for:
- Missing items
- Water
- Floods
- Earthquakes
- Smoke
- Insects
- Rodents or pests
Ask about insurance before you even sign up for a unit. The facility may not offer it or charge an extra fee for it. No matter what policy you get, read the fine print and get the best protection you can.
Consider the Location
A lack of convenience and closeness is enough to leave items sitting in storage. Mobile units that bring your items to you are convenient but expensive.
The best solution is to find storage units in Mt. Juliet for items you need to access often. Get an access arrangement once you get there. Even if it’s not a 24/7 unit that you visit every day, you should be able to get to your items whenever you need them.
Consider the Price
Certain facilities may offer specials or discounts. Ask about options such as getting free months or your first month for $1.
Look for a facility with month-by-month costs with no deposit or administration fees. That way, you’ll know what you’ll pay every month. Avoid extra fees for cancelation or opening and closing the unit.
If you tend to forget to pay bills, ask about automatic payment options. Ask about their missed payment policies because certain companies go as far as auctioning off your items after a few days.
Where to Find Storage Units in Mt. Juliet
Self-storage is a thriving industry serving movers, construction workers, homeowners who need a bit of extra space, and more. There are more units than anyone could ever fill, but that makes choosing the best one even harder.
Find the right size and type for your belongings. Make it local and visit the facility. Consider the price and look at all the fine print of the contract.
Look into our storage units in Mt. Juliet to find the best one for you.