Article takeaways
- 24-hour self storage is great 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.
Self-storage facilities are easier to find and more accessible than ever before, and many facilities offer their customers 24-hour access so they can fit visits in around their busy schedules. This comes standard with most storage unit rentals, but 24-hour facilities also offer extra amenities to help match your needs.
If a 24-hour self-storage facility is right for you, and you’re trying to make sense of what special features you need, you’ve come to the right place! From security to climate control to power, we’ll go over what to look out for when shopping for a 24-hour unit and how incorporating certain amenities into your budget will add value to your experience.
What is 24-hour self storage?
Most storage facilities have specific office hours, but 24-hour facilities allow customers to visit their units even when the office is closed. These facilities are excellent for people who may be busy during the day or have unpredictable work hours. No matter when you’re free, a 24-hour facility can fit into your schedule.
24-hour storage also means you can access your unit if you need to retrieve an item in an emergency, no matter what time it is. As with all facilities, they offer short- and long-term lease plans for temporary storage and long-term safekeeping alike.
What security features should I look for in 24-hour self storage?
Even without regular office personnel on site, the best 24-hour facilities 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, higher-end facilities may come with some extra layers of security worth looking into.
Indoor, well-lit facilities can offer 24-hour cameras, on-site security staff, and biometric locks. 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 might want to invest 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 a bit 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 indoor storage 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.
Many facilities don’t offer in-unit outlets for operating electrically powered equipment, as these add an extra risk of fire that facilities would rather not be held liable for. However, some facilities offer these units on request without advertising them publicly, so be sure to ask management about them when discussing your lease.
What other amenities should I consider when researching storage units?
Here’s a quick glance at some more 24-hour storage unit features to look for while you search.
- Insurance. Some storage facilities provide a certain amount of insurance for the items stored in their units, but if you need some extra peace of mind or protection, look into a third-party storage insurance provider.
- Locks. Some storage facilities require you to bring your own locks; we recommend a difficult-to-break disc lock if that’s the case. However, other facilities will have built-in cylinder locks, which are even stronger and harder to break into.
- Moving services. If you need a truck or other large vehicle to move your things into and out of a storage unit, some facilities will offer a complimentary truck rental with your storage unit lease.
How do I find the right storage unit for my needs?
From security to climate to electricity and everything in between, 24-hour self storage with comprehensive amenities is easier than ever to find at a cost that fits your budget. However, before you commit to renting a unit, 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 to get personalized help from one of our experts.
