Seven Tips for New Renters

Things You Should Know Before You Rent from Anyone!

Tip #1. Some facilities make it a practice to move you in at a low rate, only to raise the rent a few months later. Before you decide to rent, ask the manager how often they raise their rates. If the answer sounds good to you, ask them to put it in writing. If they are not willing to do this, you might be better off to look elsewhere.

Tip #2. This is a good one. If at all possible, visit a storage facility the day after a rainstorm and ask to see the actual unit you would be renting. Once inside, check for any puddles on the floor or water stains on the wall. Many times, water stains will remain on drywall months after the last rain. Since most facilities would not be responsible for water damage to your goods, this tip could save you lots of money in the long run.

Tip #3. Decide if you need a unit that must be accessed frequently. If you do, then this tip may not be of benefit to you. Most people rent more space than is really necessary. Believe it or not, a one bedroom apartment generally requires only about 550 square feet in storage and if you don't need to access the unit frequently, this tip should save you money. Remember to stand couches on their end to save space and stack boxes all the way to the ceiling.

Tip #4. Most facilities charge a deposit and even worse, administration fees just to do the paperwork. These fees can easily add up to over $30.00. Many times the customer does not find this out until they are ready to sign up with their first truckload already waiting. Be sure to ask over the phone before you show up if there are any hidden charges in addition to the rental rate you were quoted.

Tip #5. As mentioned in Tip #2, storage facilities are generally not responsible for the contents of your unit. It is always a good idea to insure the goods you're intending to store. Storage insurance is almost always available to you when you first sign up. Sometimes the facility collects the premium from you directly. When they do this, they usually have a financial interest in doing so. Before the manager at the front desk tries to sell you insurance paid on-the-spot, check with your own agent. Many times your home owner's or renter's insurance policy will cover you for no extra cost.

Tip #6. If for any reason you decide not to take out insurance, here are a few ways to prevent the possible loss of items due to theft. When packing your storage unit, place valuables such as electronics, tools, etc., near the back of your storage unit, out of sight and difficult to reach quickly. When your door is open, be alert as to any strangers around you that may be trying to get a good look into your unit. What they don't see, they won't be tempted by. If you notice someone lurking around your unit, report it to the manager immediately.

Tip #7. If you are moving or storing, be sure to check out the differences between mobile storing and traditional companies. The new and upcoming way to move and store saves you time by bringing the storage units to you, allowing you to pack at your leisure. They move the units for you, saving you time and liability. They can store or move your goods directly to your new location. Again, allowing you to unpack at your leisure. This is a great time-saving way to move with effective storage capabilities.

Again, these are just a few of the many tips we have helped our customers to understand when they store with us. Now that you are ready to shop around, I can't stress enough, the importance of visiting each facility you call. Take a look around and make your own judgements based on the appearance of each facility and the condition of the units they offer, because no two facilities are the alike.

By the way, if you happen to visit our facility, ask to see our mobile storage truck and we will give you a free gift valued at $49.99.

No matter whom you decide to rent from, thank you for taking the time to read this message. If you would like more information on our facility, you can call our front desk at 712-256-7095 or 402-502-7493.