Choosing a storage company can be a daunting experience. It involves choosing someone to take care of all of your beloved treasures. In light of what’s at stake, you need to have the right information at your disposal in order to make an informed and considered decision.
So, follow these tips and you’ll be on your way to finding the perfect storage provider.
Purpose-Built Storage Facilities
You may be familiar with traditional self-storage facilities, which usually consist of a chain-mesh cage or a bricked room with a roller door. Neither of these options are suitable for anyone that wants to keep their treasures safe.
Firstly, these facilities aren’t climate controlled; meaning dust, damp, humidity and vermin could destroy your belongings. Secondly, they don’t provide enough security. You need to find a storage company that will lock your belongings inside a purpose built facility that comes complete with a fire control and monitoring system as well as 24/7 CCTV and back-to-base alarm systems.
A Service Beyond Lock-Up
When inquiring about a storage company you need to ask about their follow-up service. For example, will they provide you with a conditions report? Can they pick-up and drop-off any belongings you wish to access?
You should also ask about any additional services they offer. Can they store your car or your boat? Do they offer a packing service? You’ll get more value for your money out of a company that offers a variety of services and follow-up services than from a company that only offers a place for you to store your belongings.
Word of Mouth
The best way to find the perfect storage company is to consult word of mouth. The internet makes this incredibly easy, all you have to do is surf through public reviews sites such as Google+, True Local, WOMO and even Facebook and you’ll be able to get a gauge on what the storage company can do for you.
Appropriate Coverage
The perfect company will provide you with a range of insurance policies that suit you and your business needs. If the company refuses to provide you with coverage in all circumstances, look elsewhere. Beyond the legal issues, you deserve to be given the option of paying in a way that suits you.
The Cash Only No-No
If a storage provider demands you pay with cash this is a warning sign. Cash payments are largely invisible, so a company that only deals with cash is probably looking to operate outside the bounds of the law and that’s not the type of company you want to support.