| Even with more than 50,000 storage units across the | | | | individual requests, and it can be quite difficult to |
| US, finding good storage space can be tricky. This is | | | | actually talk directly with management. |
| especially true in the densely populated areas like | | | | Besides, depending on the location where you're |
| New York or California. Ironically, these are normally | | | | looking, you may not have storage units run by big |
| the places where people often find themselves in | | | | companies available nearby. So the right company for |
| need of more storage space. | | | | you really depends on your specific needs and |
| Even when you do find storage units, providers may | | | | priorities. |
| charge as much as $20 a month per square foot. In | | | | Keep in mind, though: if you have very expensive |
| itself, this isn't necessarily a big deal, as good real | | | | and fragile items to store, like delicate paintings, |
| estate always comes at a premium. But the costs do | | | | electronics or furniture, you're probably better off |
| make it all the more important to find the right self | | | | sticking to a big company. Your valuables will be safer |
| storage building for your needs. | | | | there, and you can even opt for climate controlled |
| There are numerous self storage warehouses | | | | self storage, which is generally not available with small |
| throughout the country. One of the first decisions to | | | | businesses. |
| make when selecting self storage buildings is choosing | | | | One mistake that's all too common is opting for |
| between a small local business and a franchise of a | | | | cheaper storage units. This can prove to cost you |
| much larger chain. | | | | more, if the unit you've chosen fails to provide |
| Each type has its own pros and cons. Generally | | | | adequate protection against factors such as moisture, |
| speaking however, the bigger companies have better | | | | humidity, temperature, or even pests. |
| facilities and services. Security wise, a nationwide | | | | There's no point stashing your possessions where |
| chain is likely to be better protected than a small local | | | | they may get wet or damaged by roaches. Rather, |
| business. A self storage warehouse that's part of a | | | | choose a better facility, even if you have to use a |
| nationwide chain is also likely to be completely | | | | mini storage unit. In the long run, good mini storage |
| insured, which is an added benefit. | | | | units will keep your valuables safe and intact. |
| Also, storage units operated by big companies | | | | Finally, some companies provide services that can |
| provide customers the benefit of 24X7 accesses, | | | | really make your life a lot simpler. Consider finding a |
| although there are a few exceptions. On the | | | | company that offers moving and storage services. |
| downside, however, a few big companies do not | | | | Such a company will take care of moving all your |
| have great customer support. Their large size also | | | | items to the storage units, so it can truly be a useful |
| means that they're not likely to entertain any special | | | | option. |