Determining a storage solution to fit your needs: 6 important tips to know

You never know when the need for storage options might come into play, but it’s important to do your research and find the best solution for you before making a decision.

Storing your belongings is a great option for short or long term when you need to get items out of the way. This could be when you’re moving, completing home renovations, or if you’re a business who is undergoing changes at the office or moving from one building to the next.

There are many places that offer storage, And select TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® franchises across the country offer customers multiple storage plans for those who just need storage, or for those who plan to add it to their moves.

Contact your local franchise today to see what storage plans they offer and how they can assist with your storage needs. In the meantime, here are a few helpful storage tips we’ve come up with for you!

Determine your specific need for storage

Generally, there are two main types of storage: standard and climate-controlled. What you’ll need depends on what type of items you’ll be putting into storage.

Factors like cold, heat, or moisture that can cause damage – as well as items like documents, electronics, or clothing – might require climate-controlled storage.

Do some research

Be sure to do extensive research and see what others are saying about a company before you decided to pay for storage with them. Company reviews online can be very telling, and you’ll be able to get a sense for how they treat their customers and their customers’ belongings based on what has been said in the past about service options.

What size storage unit will you need?

Figure out everything you’re going to be placing in storage and make an assessment of how much it is to help you determine what size storage unit you’ll need. A helpful reminder: always get a storage unit slightly bigger than the amount of belongings you have so you are able to navigate through it if needed.

Ask about accessibility

Some facilities offer 24-hour access, and others operate on set schedules based on their hours of operation. Be sure to ask about this and then determine how important this is to you when deciding on a storage plan. It’s also important to remember some storage facilities charge access fees if you need to get into the unit.

Purchase insurance

As it is with most situations involving your personal belongings, it’s always a good idea to get insurance to protect your items in case of damages or an accident. If your storage facility doesn’t offer insurance plans, check with your home owner’s insurance company to see if they can offer protection.

Things that shouldn’t be kept in a storage unit

Not everything is meant to go into storage, and it’s important to know what items you should avoid putting into your storage unit.

Common items that cannot be kept in a unit include but are not limited to:

-Medical supplies

-Firearms and ammunition

-Unregistered vehicles

-Perishable food items

-Candles or soaps

-Combustible or flammable materials

It’s best to contact the company you select for storage to find out if they have any additional or specific items that can’t be kept in their facilities to avoid any issues.

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® is the first and largest franchised moving company in the United States. Let us help move you forward! For more helpful tips and information on moving services subscribe to our blog and like us on Facebook.