Storage units are big business, and people might need to rent a storage unit for various reasons and potentially for different periods of time. A storage unit might be used for several weeks to house items that don’t fit anywhere else or can come in handy over months to keep things that still have to be sorted through. Do you need to find a storage unit near you? There are differences in how contracts and costs are set up and the key factors to consider when finding your perfect storage unit match. Here’s how to choose the right storage unit and weigh the long-term vs. short-term storage options.
Choosing the Right Storage Unit: Factors to Consider for Long-Term vs. Short-Term Storage
Choosing the Right Storage Unit Provider
Choose the right storage unit provider, and choose a registered and established company over those that you may have just seen an advertisement for. The storage unit business is vast, and there are both franchises and trusted smaller companies — but sadly, there are also many scams.
Verify your company and check out some reviews. Ensure that you’re dealing with an authentic storage unit provider.
Reading the Agreement and Terms Carefully: Long-Term vs. Short-Term Storage
Read the agreement and terms carefully before signing up with your chosen storage unit company. Sometimes, hidden costs and woven-in clauses could mean that there are penalty fees. Even worse, you sacrifice your storage unit for a missed payment.
Long- and short-term storage agreements can also differ in their content. If you aren’t a contract expert, it’s your legal consumer’s right to ask for a second opinion on the legal paperwork before signing anything into effect.
Do You Need Long-Term or Short-Term Storage?
Make sure you know first whether you need long-term or short-term storage. Long-term and short-term storage could influence how items are kept, as well as the ventilation and humidity in the unit. Controlling temperature and humidity is essential for preserving some items (like wooden furniture). — and long-term storage becomes a whole different calculation.
As added preparation, it can also be essential to ask what happens if you need to extend the duration of your contract. Sometimes, you need short-term storage, but change your needs once the contract ends. Ask important questions, like: “Is there a penalty clause?”
Short-Term Storage Solutions Defined
Short-term storage has varying contractual definitions and might differ from provider to provider. However, short-term storage can be anything from days through to weeks.
Most people like the flexibility of short-term storage and have an established plan for what they will do with the unit’s content once their time is up.
Should You Opt For Long-Term Storage?
Long-term storage might differ in definition, but it could last for weeks to months as a gauge. The benefit of long-term storage is that you can store your belongings for extended periods for years or decades.
Long-term storage needs preparation (e.g., how to pay for the longer term), though you might not know where these items will end up. The unit is a long-term solution that is paid for regularly or beforehand so that you can store your items safely.
Choosing the Right Unit Long-Term vs. Short-Term Storage
When you need to secure a storage unit for your goods, be sure to get all the information. Costs, contracts, temperature control, security measures, and long-term vs short-term storage can all seem overwhelming.
Contact your local storage facility to get all your questions answered and make an informed decision. They can point you to the most cost-effective choice, and you will leave with peace of mind and feel confident in your decision between short-term and long-term storage.
Clark Storage – Best and Most Secured Storage Units in the Area
Our family business objective is to provide you with the best service and facilities in a secure location. As you get to know our facilities, you will note they were selected for your ease of access, location, and security. Please let us know how we can continue to improve your storage needs and fulfill your high expectations. We have storage units in Council Bluffs, Glenwood, and Pacific Junction. Contact us today. We are also offering a Move-In Referral Program, click here for more information.
