If you have never used self storage before it can feel like a bit of a minefield. There are many decisions to make about unit sizes and rental periods. Trying to decide can lead to feelings of overwhelm. In today’s article, we are going to do a virtual walkthrough of a self storage facility. We will let you know the ins and outs of the entire process so you can come to choosing your own self storage much more prepared. 

The Beginning Of The Process 

The process will most likely begin online. You will head to the self storage facilities website, find your local store and see what units they have on offer. If you are a dab-hand at self storage, you can do the entire process online and then begin preparing to move in. 

If you are new to self storage and aren’t sure which unit is right for you, it is a good idea to chat with one of the team members. This can be done online, via email or the Live Chat on the website, but it can be a very good idea to come into the store, if you have the time. 

Coming into the store allows you to get your questions answered but our teams will also happily show you around. Also, you will be able to get a feel for the place and the team. Many of our customers choose to use our storage because they find our teams so helpful and friendly. Yes, it is “just” self storage but if you are going to be visiting your unit a lot or even working from it, you want the self storage facility to be a nice environment. 

The Self Storage Facility

Every storage facility is going to be different. Even stores within the same company will be different as they will be housed within different buildings and different surrounding locations. But, they all do have some similarities. Within this section, we are going to talk about these similarities so you can have some idea of what to expect when you first visit the store. 

Walking In 

When you enter the self storage facility, you will find the reception. On the reception, there will be a team member who will be happy to help you with your enquiries. If you are wanting to be shown around the units, it may be a good idea to email in advance so a team member is readily available to do this when you arrive. 

Once introductions have been made, the team will show you around the units. 

The Units

Within our stores, our units come in a variety of sizes and types. Many of our units are located inside our storage facility but there are some outside. 

Drive Up Units

Drive up units are exactly as described – they are units you can drive up to. We have these within some of our stores, including Bicester. They are located outside and, if they are what you are interested in, the team will bring you outside to them. 

Even though they are outside, they are extremely secure as they are all fitted with intruder alarms and have gated/pin-code access throughout many of our stores. 

Standard Storage Units 

Our standard units are all inside of stores. This adds an extra layer of security but they also remain very easy to move into as you will be able to use our trolleys to bring your belongings to your units. Many of our stores do have an upper floor but we have lifts to make moving in and out very easy. 

Unit Sizes 

The size of units available is dependent on what store you will be going to but, within all our stores, we offer a good range of sizes from around 10 square feet to 100, 200, 300, 400 etc. But, it is entirely dependent on the store. 

If you aren’t sure what size is best for you, all of our teams are highly knowledgeable in storage so they will be able to find you a unit that is perfect for your needs, with no space going to waste. 

Once You Have Chosen A Unit

Once you know which unit you want to rent, the team will take you to the office to fill in your rental contract. 

Within our stores, we will ask you for a start and end date for your rental period but our contracts are completely flexible so if you need your unit for longer or need to leave before your rental period is up, you can do that. If you do need to leave before your rental period has expired, we will just need the standard 14 days notice. 

Moving In To Your Unit 

Once the rental agreement is signed you can begin the process of moving in. Like we have already said, we have lifts and trolleys available to help you but all our teams are all here to help too. 

Depending on what you are storing in your storage unit, you may want to add shelving or racking before moving in. We are very happy for you to do this. 

Once you have moved in, you are all set! But, if you do have any issues, our store teams are always ready to help. 

If you would like to know more about our self storage, please click here to find your local store.