Having a self-storage space for large family heirlooms, recreational activity gears, or any excess furniture that are taking a lot of space in your house seems an ideal and trendy approach these days. Over 50, 000 self-storage facilities are budding all over the US.
Here’s something to remember though, when it comes to renting storage units
Tacoma’s top facilities can be expensive, especially for those on a tight budget.
To allot a chunk of budget for storage rent is a leap and needs to be justified by utilizing the space and making sure that the need to rent one is necessary in the first place.
Sort it out
The first step before considering a self-storage unit is to sort out your house. Make a list of the major furniture that you want to set aside then picture each room without it. After that, declutter and reorganize each room. Chances are, you already have more space in your house and the excess valuables can either be put in a storage space or a yard sale.
Sort out what’s valuable and what’s not. Many tend to hoard and get emotionally attached to their possessions that can cause their homes to look jammed or crowded. Note that if you are planning to store furniture only to keep it boxed after taking it home again, it has to go.
Find the right unit
After finalizing the furniture or stuff needed to be stored, you need to look for the appropriate kind of unit. Search for the right storage unit that is good for your crafts and art collection, or seasonal household supplies, recreational and lawn furniture, or even antiques. There are a number of storage types like indoor, outdoor, standard, heated, and climate-controlled spaces that will not damage your belongings.
Do not settle once you find a self-storage facility near your home. Search for all the self-storage units near you and compare their price range. If possible, you can even search for areas that offer low-cost rent spaces with larger units.
Size up your options
Note that the smaller the storage unit, the more money one can possibly save. After finding a reasonable priced-facility, drop by and see it for yourself. Picture how you can pile up your furniture. Use your Tetris game skills and plan on making it a puzzle with every space filled from top to bottom.
Measure the length and width of your belongings and plan on categorizing each stuff that can safely be placed at the bottom.
Negotiate
Finding a reasonable price is a step but negotiating to make it more affordable is another. Avoid settling on what’s on the paper and inquire if there are lower rates other than the ones they advertised. Justify why your request is needed. Not all prices are fixed and make sure to tally the price range.
Share the space
Consider sharing the space. Ask your friends, a relative, or co-workers who are also planning to rent a storage space. In this case, you can rent larger units that meet both of your desired budgets.
Store it elsewhere
If you have large furniture or household supplies that are quite big, try lending it to a friend or a relative. You can also post an ad online to have your recreational equipment rented. This can be your time to be creative and acquire an entrepreneurial attitude. Turn your excess belongings into events equipment for extra income. If there’s really no room in your house, who says it has to stay there ‘always’?
Just note to store your most used belongings near the entrance of your storage units or somewhere that is easier to access. Pile up your belongings in a way that is convenient for you. If you constantly rearrange the piles in your storage, it might eventually damage or break some of the equipment.
Look for perks
As you negotiate for a lower rent rate, inquire or search if they are offering discount storage units. Tacoma’s biggest storage firms offer specials or discounts for students, the military, or members of certain organizations. Some even offer discounts for recreational items like kayaks and boat gears.
Ask for free racks and compartments. Make use of the occasional freebies or any perks that make your renting transaction smooth and convenient.
Inquire if you can have a free moving truck or assistance if you pay a few months ahead. There are also coupons or promos that are posted on self-storage websites during certain seasons that you can look forward to.
Box it properly
It is best to box your equipment and compartmentalize those that are irregular in shape or too small. Use bubble wraps on fragile antiques or glassware and make sure to put them on top of the pile. You can wrap fragile lamps, figurines, or porcelain items in the old newspaper. Make sure that all items are dry before packing. At times, the ink on the newspaper can be transferred to your delicate glassware.
It is a must that you label each box and categorizes before moving on whether they are fragile or not. Place mothballs and insect repellant sprays in the storage units to ensure that rodents or insects won’t damage your belongings. If possible, place a dehumidifier in the unit.
Make an inventory
Make sure you have an inventory of everything that you put on the storage unit. You can make one while boxing and labeling your equipment, as well as when placing things in your storage unit. This can be helpful when categorizing your items based on weight.
This way, you can also monitor the items you take out or add-in. It may be a tedious habit but knowing you have all your equipment on a checklist after the renting period can be a relief.
Have it ensured
Lastly, look for a storage facility that offers insurance for your items, especially if you have high-value items or antiques. If you’ll be renting storage units, Tacoma’s best facilities should be able to protect your personal items – providing assurance that everything is covered for cases of fire, theft, storms, or other accidents.
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