Whether you’re a business looking to store excess stock or an individual moving home who needs a temporary storage facility to hold your belongings, self-storage units are a cost-effective and secure solution to your storage needs. Here at Atrium Self Storage, we understand how daunting renting, using, and maintaining a storage space can be. Luckily, our team of experts have created the ultimate checklist to help make the process as easy as possible.
Your Self Storage Checklist
As we’ve mentioned, storage price can vary significantly based on several factors, including the size of the unit, the length of your tenancy, and the level of security you need for your items. Not all storage facilities provide the same security measures, and some that offer lower prices may not have the features you are looking for.
Suitable Identification
Before securing your storage unit, you’ll need identification such as a driving license or passport to present to facility staff.
Proof of Address
Proof of address, such as utility bills or credit card statements, may be required to further verify your identity.
A Credit or Debit Card
For your first initial rental payment or deposit payment, you’ll need to bring along a suitable credit or debit card to pay for your storage space. Additionally, you’ll also want to bring along any needed bank details to set up a recurring bank transfer to cover your unit’s monthly cost.
Copy of Contents Insurance
If you choose to not take out insurance through your storage provider, you’ll need to bring along a copy of your contents insurance, without it you may not be allowed to rent a unit. Alternatively, Atrium does offer storage insurance for your stored goods at an additional cost to your unit.
Learn more about Atrium’s Self Storage Insurance.
A Sturdy Padlock
As with any storage unit, you’ll want to ensure you have a protective security padlock and spare keys to lock up your unit. If you’re unsure your padlock is up to scratch, you can ask a member of our team on-site or purchase a secure lock from us at our facility.
Inventory List
When storing items, keeping track of what’s in your storage unit can become challenging, especially as you add and remove items over time. To save yourself the hassle of searching through your unit for specific items, we recommend creating an inventory list before you move your items in. Be sure to update this list every time you visit your unit so you can keep on top of your stored objects.
Emergency Alternative Contact
Although unlikely, it is useful to provide your chosen storage unit provider with an alternative emergency contact staff can contact in the event they cannot reach you. If you’re planning on going on holiday, we recommend providing another point of contact for your unit to give you peace of mind your items are safely stored while you are away.
Optional Packing Supplies
While not absolutely necessary, bringing along items like gloves, fragile tape, bubble wrap, and a marker pen can help streamline your moving process and keep you on top of where all your items are. If you plan on granting others access to your unit, labelling your boxes and plastic containers can make it easier to locate your items and minimise the potential of them being damaged when moved.
What to Check Before Moving:
Aside from the physical items you will need to bring, there as also some precautionary checks you should do before moving into your unit.
Insurance Needs
Although kept in a unit provider’s facility, the items within self storage remain the owner’s responsibility. Here at Atrium, we require all our unit renters to have insurance coverage against loss or damage to their goods during the time of storage.
Determining the Right Size for Your Storage Unit
Before choosing your self storage unit, you’ll need to be aware of how much space you will need. Different sizes have different costs, so making sure you have a space that’s not too large or small, will ensure you don’t pay for unnecessary floor space.
At Atrium, our self storage unit sizes range from 25 square feet to 170 square feet. If you’re uncertain about the size you need, our team is available to assist or arrange a viewing at your convenience, plus, should your storage requirements change, Atrium offers the flexibility to downsize or upsize your unit during your rental.
Find the right size for your storage needs with our unit size guide.
Understanding Notice Periods
Different storage facilities will have different requirements for when you no longer need your unit. Ensuring you give plenty of time for your provider to be aware you’re moving out will give them time to terminate your rental agreement and resolve any paperwork or documents.
Cost Inclusions
Costs cover not only the space itself but also a range of additional benefits that make your storage experience easier. Many self storage facilities will include certain security features such as CCTV monitoring to ensure their client’s items are safe.
At Atrium, we offer a range of additional services and security features included in our unit rentals. Our costs cover expert advice, complimentary Wi-Fi, comprehensive CCTV surveillance for your peace of mind, and the availability of trolleys to facilitate easy transportation of your goods.
Knowing what benefits are included in your rental agreement can help you assess the overall value and security provided by your storage facility.
Facility Access Times
Being aware of the operating hours of your self storage facility is crucial for planning your visits. As a result, it’s important to keep track of facility opening items so you know you can access your belongings as and when you need to. Atrium ensures convenient access to your storage facility, offering 24-hour access, 365 days a year. This around-the-clock availability allows you to retrieve or store items at any time that suits your schedule, making it easier to manage your storage needs without being constrained by limited operating hours. Whether you need to grab something late at night or store items early in the morning, Atrium’s flexible access ensures that your storage experience is as seamless and easy.
Self Storage Maintenance Checklist:
Once you’ve moved in, you need to be aware of what you need to do to maintain your storage unit. During your rental, it’s essential to keep a few key factors in mind to maximise your storage experience and ensure compliance with the rules of your chosen self storage facility, all while getting the most value for your money.
Prohibited Items
Ensure you do not store the following:
- Food
- Plants
- Illegal or stolen items
- Sentimental or high-value items
- Hazardous materials such as flammable, explosive, or toxic substances
Optimise Vertical Space
To make the most of your storage unit, utilize the vertical space effectively. Our staff is always available to provide storage tips on how to pack efficiently. Remember, you’re paying for the floor space, not the height. By stacking boxes and items vertically, you can save on floor space and reduce costs.
Do’s and Don’ts
- Do maintain a clean and debris-free storage room.
- Do not attempt to sleep or live in your storage unit, as this is strictly prohibited.
- Do use the provided trolleys to easily access and move heavier items.
- Do not leave any equipment or items outside of your storage unit.
- Do use protective covers such as bubble wrap to keep fragile items safe.
Looking for a self storage facility? Speak to a member of the team at Atrium Self Storage today and book your secure unit today!