Have you ever wanted to use self storage, but had some lingering concerns about things like auctions, theft, long-term contracts, and more? At Mini Mall Storage, we’re here to address those concerns for you and tell you the truth about how self storage works so you can store with peace of mind.
- Self Storage is Expensive
Many people let the perceived cost of self storage deter them, but storage units come in a wide range of sizes and prices to fit any budget.
Rates will vary by where you live, and the type and size of storage unit you’re looking into – a climate-controlled storage unit will cost more than drive up, and a 10x30 you can park a car in will be more expensive than a simple 5x5.
Most storage facilities – including us – offer excellent deals on move-in, like first month free!
- You Never Need Climate-Controlled Storage
While some people might argue that you should always save money by choosing a drive up storage unit, that isn’t the case. You wouldn’t be storing your belongings if they weren’t important to you, and many times climate-controlled storage can make all the difference.
Whether you need climate-controlled storage or not generally comes down to the types of items you’re storing. If you have things like appliances, electronics, music instruments, art, vintage items, leather, or other materials sensitive to temperature and humidity fluctuations, climate-controlled is definitely for you.
- Storage Is Only for Hoardersand Moves
Many people think self storage is only for people who have “too much stuff” or people who are moving, but the truth is that a wide range of individuals and organizations use self storage to make their lives easier and simpler. Our clients include local and chain businesses storing inventory, charities without physical premises who need storage space, delivery drivers, homeowners, college students, apartment renters, and more!
Whether you’re passionate about seasonal holiday decorations (inflatable Santa and his reindeer take up a lot of space in the garage during the off-season, not to mention that 30’ skeleton for Halloween...), an outdoor enthusiast with kayaks and camping gear, or you’re renovating your home, we have the perfect self storage solution to meet your needs.
- Storage Auctions Are Lucrative, Storage Facilities Make Money from Auctions
We blame TV for this one. While the truth is that some storage units will contain valuable items, many are filled solely with sentimental items or those that otherwise have low financial value.
It also simply isn’t true that storage facilities make money on auctions – we actually try to avoid auctions as much as possible, for both the occupant’s benefit and our own. An auction is an attempt to recoup debt owed and isn’t profitable for the storage facility.
- Self Storage Isn’t Secure
Your items are actually more likely to be secure at a storage facility than at home. Unless, of course, your home includes a security fence, a gate that requires a PIN, and 24/7 digital video surveillance cameras among other features. Some of our storage facilities even include individual unit alarms!
One of the best things you can do to protect your goods while using self storage is to get a secure lock. We recommend disc locks for their high collars that prevent the use of bolt cutters or grinders, and these are the type we stock at our offices and use for our own storage units.
- Self Storage Is Inconvenient
You’d think this one would be true, considering your belongings aren’t at home for immediate use, but most self storage customers live within 5 miles from the storage facility they use – often even less, as we choose locations based on convenience and access to main roads.
Drive up storage units are also ideal for convenience, as they allow you to load and unload just by pulling your vehicle up.
- You Can Put Anything in Self Storage
Unfortunately, this one isn’t true, either. Every storage facility will have a list of prohibited items that generally includes things like food and perishable items, hazardous materials, animals, guns, contraband, and other items. Speak to your Storage Specialist and consult your lease if you have any questions about what you are and aren’t allowed to store.
Final Thoughts
At Mini Mall Storage we’re passionate about helping the people in the communities we serve find seamless, secure self storage that fits their budget and lifestyle. From college students heading home for the summer to business owners with overflow inventory to homeowners looking to create extra space, we’re dedicated to helping you take your space back and make it your own.
Interested in finding self storage, but have more questions before you commit? Give our Storage Specialists a call or stop by one of our local offices today! Our staff are experts committed to excellent service!
If you’re ready to rent, find self storage near you at Mini Mall Storage today! We have more than 250 storage facilities across North America, and we’re always ready to help.
