5 Essential Factors to Consider When Choosing the Perfect Storage Unit

Published on 5/28/2024
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Choosing the Perfect Storage Unit

With so many self-storage facilities to choose from, finding the perfect storage unit to suit your needs can be a daunting task. Whether you're planning a big move, temporarily downsizing, or simply need extra space to store belongings, it's important to ensure that you're making the best possible choice for your storage requirements. As experienced professionals in the self-storage industry, we understand the importance of selecting the right storage unit to safeguard your valuable items. In this blog post, we'll be discussing the top five factors to consider when looking for a storage unit.

1. Price: It goes without saying that price is a significant factor when choosing a storage unit. You'll want to find a facility that offers affordable rates while still providing top-notch services and amenities. To help you with making the decision, we recommend creating a budget and shopping around for storage facilities that fit within your financial constraints.

2. Security: When entrusting your valuables to a storage facility, ensuring that they're protected against theft or damage should be a top priority. Make sure to inquire about a facility's security measures, such as surveillance cameras, alarm systems, and on-site staff presence during business hours. Don't hesitate to ask for additional details if you have concerns about the safety and security of your belongings.

3. Accessible hours: Another essential factor to consider is the access hours of the storage facility. Depending on your personal or professional schedule, you may need to access your belongings outside of typical business hours. Choosing a facility with 24-hour access or extended hours can provide the flexibility and convenience you require.

4. Staffed hours: While it might seem less important, considering a facility's staffed hours can also have a significant impact on your overall storage experience. The presence of staff on-site not only ensures that any issues can be promptly addressed but also adds an extra layer of security to the facility. As such, we recommend opting for a storage unit with staffed hours that align with your needs and preferences.

5. Location and access: Finally, consider the location of your chosen storage facility. Ideally, you'll want a unit that's conveniently located near your home or workplace, making it easier to access your belongings whenever necessary. In addition, consider the ease of access to the facility itself, including whether it offers drive-up access, easily navigated premises, and spacious units for easy loading and unloading.

Taking these factors into account will help you make an informed decision when selecting the perfect storage unit for your needs. At our self-storage facility, we take pride in offering top-quality storage solutions, prioritizing security, affordability, and customer satisfaction. Visit our facility today to discover how we can cater to your unique storage requirements.

Budgeting for Your Storage Unit


As previously mentioned, the price of a storage unit should be one of your primary considerations. Start by establishing a budget for your storage needs, factoring in the duration of your rental period and any additional costs, such as insurance or specialized climate-controlled units. By doing this, you'll be better equipped to compare prices and uncover the best deals in your area.

Remember: cheaper isn't always better. It's important to find a balance between cost and the quality of the services provided. Some facilities may offer competitive rates but lack essential features like security or on-site staff. Investigate thoroughly and make sure you're not sacrificing key elements in favor of a lower price.

Prioritizing On-Site Security Measures


When entrusting your valuables to a storage facility, you want to be confident that they're well-protected. Therefore, it's crucial to evaluate the security measures in place at the various facilities you're considering. Here's what you should be looking for:

1. Surveillance cameras: Quality surveillance systems are indispensable for maintaining a secure storage facility. Cameras should be strategically placed throughout the premises to monitor activity 24/7.

2. Secure access points: Check whether the facility has gated entrances or restricted access points to ensure that only authorized individuals can enter the property.

3. Well-lit premises: Adequate lighting, both inside storage units and around the facility, is important for deterring would-be intruders and ensuring visibility during your visits.

4. Alarm systems: Many facilities also have alarm systems in place that can detect unauthorized access or unwarranted movements, further safeguarding your stored items.

Flexible Access and Staff Availability


A storage facility that fits seamlessly into your lifestyle can make all the difference in how you manage your stored belongings. Therefore, consider the following access and staff-related factors when evaluating potential facilities:

1. Access hours: Choosing a storage unit with 24-hour access or extended hours ensures that you can visit your belongings whenever you need to, without being locked into a strict timetable.

2. Drive-up access: Facilities that offer drive-up access to storage units can make loading and unloading a breeze, sparing you the trouble of navigating tight corridors or multiple floors with your belongings.

3. Staffed hours: While not strictly necessary, staffed hours can be an invaluable addition to any storage facility. On-site staff not only offer assistance when needed but also serve as an extra layer of security and help maintain the overall upkeep of the facility.

Location, Size, and Special Features


Lastly, you'll want to evaluate the unit's location, size, and any special features that may be relevant to your storage needs. Keep these pointers in mind:

1. Location: Consider how convenient the facility's location is for you – closer is typically better. The easier it is to access your stored items, the more satisfied you're likely to be with your storage experience.

2. Unit size: Select a unit that's appropriately sized for your needs. While it's important to avoid overcrowding, choosing a unit that's too large can result in unnecessary expenditures.

3. Climate control: If you're storing items that are sensitive to temperature or humidity, it may be worth investing in a climate-controlled unit. This added feature ensures optimal storage conditions for your belongings, protecting them from damage due to temperature fluctuations or moisture.

Making an Informed Choice


Finding the perfect storage unit involves weighing factors such as price, security, access, staffed hours, location, and special features. By keeping these factors in mind and thoroughly researching your options, you can make a well-informed decision that best meets your storage requirements. 

At Community Storage Arkansas, we prioritize quality service and customer satisfaction, providing secure and user-friendly solutions for all your storage needs. Contact us today to learn more about the range of self-storage unit rentals we offer and how we can help you find the ideal storage unit for your unique needs.