What to Look for in Self Storage Facilities
While our movers do provide storage space as part of their service offerings, we do understand that some of our customers may wish to choose the self-storage option instead. So for those looking at the possibility of using self-storage facilities, here are some useful information on what to look out for in storage facilities.
Self-storage offers you the opportunity to store anything from paperwork to appliances. Self-storage solutions are designed with flexibility in mind, giving you more control over the storing of your goods and price of service. You determine how long you need the facility. Access is usually free of charge providing that the facilities are open for business. You can simply arrive, grab your goods and leave. This allows you the option of removing goods as and when you need them. When using self-storage services, you will be responsible for loading your goods into the storage facility and removing it when you no longer require the service. If you would rather have this done for you, there are movers who offer a packing and unpacking service for a fee. Some also offer removal trucks and packing aids as well.
Always look for storage facilities that are clean. A clean facility indicates that the establishment is well maintained and more importantly, well managed.
The flexibility of self-storage solutions is often very appealing to most clients. However, because of this flexibility, you should always do your homework first before choosing any storage space providers.
If you don’t like being tied down to long term contracts, this is certainly the option for you. There is no pre-set date required and you can move your belongings in whenever you are ready, subject to availability of storage space. The minimum tenure is usually about 2 weeks and you can store your items and for as long as you wish. Contracts are usually on a month to month basis but should you wish to terminate the service, some companies allow you to do so by just giving them 2 weeks notice.
As mentioned earlier, self-storage facilities do not usually charge a fee if you want access to the facility, provided it is during their operating hours. Hence, their operating hours becomes very important. Be sure you are comfortable with their opening hours when deciding on an operator. Some operators in Singapore are even opened 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. And if you require easy access, location of the storage facility can be an important consideration too.
You can also decide who else has access to the storage space. Usually, only the renter has access, however access rights can usually be granted to whomever you choose. Many companies will require that you to bring your own lock to ensure that you are the sole key holder. Reputable companies do have security in place including coded security access, alarms, guards and CCTV.
If you require your storage facility provider to accept delivery packages on your behalf, it may be wise too to check out their delivery handling policy. Will they, for example, place the delivered items to your rented unit on your behalf or will they hold it for you till you retrieve them. If they are holding it for you, check how secure the arrangement is and more importantly if you are comfortable with it.
Depending on what you plan to store (for example, wine, mattresses or furniture) you may need to request for a climate controlled storage room. A good storage company will have professionally trained staff to advise you on the type of storage and size needed. When deciding, it is important to take into consideration your storage needs as well as how much time and money you have to spend on storing your goods. Checking out a few competitors for the best deal is also wise.
Insurance is a big concern so make sure that you are covered. Discuss this with your insurance professional to see if the cover extend to goods and belongings placed at storage facilities. Most companies do offer insurance subject to certain terms and conditions; know what these are, especially the exclusions. Either way, be sure that you are covered as you don’t want any nasty surprises in the event of a calamity.
The above tips are proudly brought to you by Movers Singapore, a provider of home and office moving services.
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