People in the United States move more than in any other country in the world! So it’s no surprise that many Americans use storage. Some people store their things with their moving company when they move. Although, it is more common and convenient to use local self-storage. This way, people choose a storage unit near their home. Then they can come and go whenever they want. If you’re moving soon or need extra space in your home, you might consider renting a storage unit. You might also have questions about the various types of storage units available. We can also help you answer the question, “do I need climate-controlled storage.” So stay tuned for everything you need to know about self-storage!
Mover’s Storage vs. Self-Storage
First, let’s discuss the differences between self-storage and using a moving company. There are two significant differences, including:
Accessibility
The typical moving company has one large warehouse. They store your things in large wooden containers called pallets. Once stored, there’s no way to access your things until they’re delivered to your new home. This can be very challenging.
Instead if you use a self-storage unit, you can take things out whenever you need them. You can also put extra things into your storage unit if necessary. This accessibility difference can be a huge advantage. For example, if it’s summer when your things are stored. In a mover’s storage, you won’t be able to get your winter clothes out when cold weather starts. But with a storage unit, you can bring your summer clothes in and take your winter clothes out as you need.
Cost
Secondly, a moving and storage company depends on storage for a big percentage of its profits. For that reason, their storage costs are usually high.
In contrast, a storage unit is quite reasonable, cost-wise. That makes self-storage a more affordable option. Also, self-storage offers different types of storage units to choose from.
Traditional Self-Storage Units
Traditional storage units are rectangular and have a garage door and concrete floors. Also, they aren’t temperature-controlled. So whatever the temperature outside, it will be the same inside your storage unit. For the majority of items people store, that’s not a problem. Modern furniture, clothing, toys, sporting goods, and more can withstand heat or cold. The same is true for items like boats, motorcycles, and cars.
Above all, traditional storage units are perfect for everyday items. Traditional storage units come in a wide range of sizes. The unit sizes start at 5ft x 5ft up to 10ft x 40ft. Also, most units are 8ft tall.
Temperature-Controlled Self-Storage Units
One of the big distinctions between different types of storage units is the climate. Temperature-controlled storage units are heated and cooled based on the weather. Depending on what you need to store, climate-controlled storage may be important. For example, if you have leather furniture, you’ll need to protect it from extreme heat. Likewise, severe winter cold can wreak havoc with electronics and appliances. Then there’s humidity which can provoke mold and mildew that ruins fine clothing. Depending on what you’re storing, temperature-controlled storage units can be a lifesaver.
Drive-Up Self-Storage Units
Drive-up storage units are no different in most respects than traditional storage units. But they are much more convenient. Why? Because you can drive your vehicle right up to your storage unit for loading and unloading. For comparison, the time it takes to load and unload an interior storage unit can double or triple. With an interior storage unit, you’ll need to carry your things from your car to your unit and back again. (Or use a cart or hand truck.) Depending on where your unit is within in the storage facility, that might be 50 to 100 yards each way.
Note: Typically, drive-up storage units are not temperature controlled.
Interior Self-Storage Units
Interior self-storage units are inside the self-storage warehouse. They are very similar in most respects to traditional storage units. That being said, it’s usually the interior storage units that are also temperature-controlled. And, as we mentioned, it takes a bit more time to load and unload them. You have to walk from your car to your unit inside the facility. (In multi-story self-storage centers, you might also need to use an elevator.) We recommend this type of storage unit for your most valuable and fragile items.
Car and Vehicle Self-Storage
There are three different types of storage for cars and vehicles. These include outdoor, outdoor covered, and indoor. Below are the differences between the three.
- Outdoor vehicle storage is a reserved parking space inside the storage facility. It’s uncovered and exposed to the elements like a parking space in a parking lot. However, SecurCare has 24/7 video cameras, keypad-controlled fences, and an onsite manager.
- Covered outdoor vehicle storage spaces offer a roof of some type. That way, your vehicle is better protected from the sun and the elements.
- Indoor car and vehicle storage are when you store your vehicle inside a storage unit. This offers the ultimate protection from the elements. You would, of course, have to rent a storage unit large enough to fit your vehicle. Some folks store their car and other stuff inside the same storage unit, which can save you some money.
Brought to You by SecurCare Self Storage
Whatever you need to store, SecurCare can help. The majority of our locations have all the types of storage units above. (We do ask that you call ahead for vehicle storage.)
No matter which storage center you choose SecurCare values your belongings. We provide 24/7 video security, keypad-controlled front gates, and on-site managers. Our storage units are also clean, safe, and ready to store practically anything. (No flammables, though, please.)
Questions about self-storage in your state? If so, chat with us online or visit the SecurCare location nearest you. The onsite manager will be happy to answer your questions and help you! They can also help you decide if you need climate-controlled storage and more.