Storage -- Why You May Need a Specialized Company

It might seem like the ultimate "first world problem", but there's no denying that we sometimes just don't have enough space for all of the stuff we have accumulated. This could be due to moving, or it could simply be due to buying something for which we have no room. In this circumstance, we have to make a choice. We can either sell the stuff, or we can rent out some storage until we do have room. Many people choose this latter route. Rather than selling off things that you really would rather not or burdening a friend or family member with your belongings, you can take matters into your own hands and store it away for a short time.

A good storage company doesn't need to be an expensive one. In fact, it may be much less expensive than it would be to sell the stuff only to buy it again in the future. Shop around for a deal that makes sense for your financial situation. It certainly won't make sense to pay as much to store your extra belongings as you would for a bigger place to live, but that's an unlikely occurrence. A better example would be someone leaving for an overseas trip. Perhaps you're in the military. Does it make more financial sense to keep paying the rent on an apartment just to store your stuff, or to find a good company that will place your belongings under lock and key for a much better price.

Take convenience into consideration when choosing a storage company. If you need access to your belongings at all hours, don't settle for a place that only lets you come onto the property during particular hours of the day. There are plenty of companies that give their tenants 24 hour access, and you won't have to pay much more for the privilege. On the other hand, if there is a savings to be had for reduced access—and you see no reason why you would need 24 hour access — it might be worth it to take the limited service for the additional savings.

Security is probably the biggest factor you should consider when you look for a storage unit. Just because you won't be housing your own belongings, you shouldn't settle for anything less than tight security. This is especially true if you'll be keeping valuable items on the premises. Of course, having said that, a bank's safety deposit box should be your first stop for anything of extraordinary value. Back to the subject at hand, look for well lit grounds, security fences, locks, and possibly even a nighttime guard. Cameras are nice to see, as well. Check around and see what people have to say about the security of the place before you sign up.