Article takeaways
- 24-hour self storage is an effective solution for people with unpredictable or busy schedules, and it can come with a number of additional amenities worth looking for.
- High-tech storage unit security is worth investing in for maximum peace of mind.
- Climate controlled storage units can protect your belongings from the elements.
- In-unit power can help you see inside your unit after dark.
- Look into insurance for your belongings and research convenient storage unit locks to get the most value out of your units.
Over time, the term “self storage” has shifted from meaning “basic spaces to store items in” to “full-service facilities built for customer convenience and ease of access”. Many facilities offer 24-hour storage access, meaning those of us with busy schedules don’t have to plan visits around the facility’s office hours. However, these facilities often differ in the features and amenities they offer.
If you’re looking for a convenient self storage option for your needs, and you’d like to understand what sets a premium facility apart from a more basic one, you’re in the right place. From security to climate control to power, we’ll go over what to look out for when seeking out the right solution for you, and how incorporating certain amenities into your budget will add value to your experience.
What is 24-hour self storage?
A 24-hour self storage facility allows its users to access their storage units even when the office isn’t open. This is ideal for people with unpredictable or busy schedules, enabling them to come in any time that’s convenient for them regardless of the facility’s hours. Some facilities that don’t offer 24-hour access may charge extra fees for customers to visit their units during off hours, but 24-hour facilities eliminate these fees entirely.
Whether you’re paying daily storage fees for short-term use or a long-term lease, 24-hour access to units of all sizes offer you convenience, as well as peace of mind knowing you can access your belongings at any time in case of an emergency.
What security features should I look for in 24-hour self storage?
Even without regular office personnel on site, 24-hour units come with enhanced storage unit security to ensure your belongings are safe. At the most basic level, facilities will issue keys to customers so they are the only ones who can physically open their units. However, there are plenty of additional measures to consider that can be a worthwhile investment, especially when keeping things in a unit for a long time.
All kinds of facilities can offer 24-hour cameras, on-site security staff, and electronic locks for higher security. While usually appearing less secure than indoor storage, outdoor storage facilities can offer gated entry for users, fencing to help keep out unauthorized people, and lighting to help you find your way through the facility at night. When searching for storage options near you on SelfStorage.com, you can filter by these amenities to find exactly the ones you need.
What benefits can climate controlled storage units have?
When you’re looking for cheap 24-hour storage solutions, you may want to consider investing in a climate-controlled unit if you have delicate possessions that need to be protected from temperature and humidity damage. While these facilities will cost more, you’ll save money in the long run if you don’t have to repair or replace those possessions.
Climate controlled units are typically only found in indoor self-storage facilities, and offer extra insulation to keep the temperature and humidity of the unit at steady levels. This added value can be particularly useful if you live in a humid area or an area that’s subject to extreme temperature changes.
What benefits can storage units with electricity have?
Some storage unit facilities–typically indoor facilities–offer 24-hour electricity routed to their units, usually for in-unit lighting. You’ll pay a little extra for these units, but they are often worth it for the ability to see inside your unit after dark. This premium can also apply to a facility with indoor lighting throughout.
Without a well-lit facility, it will be difficult to find your way to and from your unit after hours, and paying extra for lighting can help your peace of mind by making it easier for security cameras to catch any threats. Powered units are usually climate controlled as well, adding even more value. However, units with power have a higher risk of fire, so keep that in mind when researching solutions.
What other amenities should I consider when researching storage units?
There are plenty of other options worth investing a little extra into when it’s storage time. Insurance that covers the items within your storage unit will come in handy in the rare case of an emergency that damages them, and will help you rest easy knowing you’ve prepared for every eventuality.
You should also look at the locks provided by the self-storage facility. Your belongings will be well-protected if the facility has built-in cylinder locks, which are difficult to break. However, you can also save some money by choosing a less secure facility and bringing your own strong lock–SelfStorage.com recommends looking into padlocks and disc locks for the best peace of mind.
Conclusion
From security to climate to electricity and everything in between, convenient self storage with comprehensive amenities is easier than ever to find at a cost that fits your budget. However, before you make any decision on these amenities, it’s best to tour a facility and see them in person.
If you’re in the process of seeking out self-storage to meet your needs, you’re in the right place. SelfStorage.com’s search function will allow you to seek out facilities with the exact amenities you’re looking for, and if you have further questions, keep reading our blog articles to learn more about specific self storage topics–or give us a call at (512) 705-6208 to get personalized help from one of our experts.
