Money Saving Self Storage Tips
Depending on where you live, the country is slowly recovering from the Covid 19 lockdown. Nevertheless, in some areas, the economic fallout from the Coronavirus pandemic has been staggering. During the past year, people lost their livelihoods, their jobs, and their hope. You can’t watch the news without being emotionally moved by individuals who have been devastated by this virus and its residual effects. The cure has definitely been worse than the disease.
The only thing that remains for some are personal and business possessions. They need a place to store their furniture, household items, business inventory, and more. Self storage is the solution. Most are determined to recover from this mess, and they need a place to store their belongings. Funds are low, so they need convenient storage options that are safe and affordable.
Money Saving Self Storage Tips
Share with Friends and Family
This is a great option. The larger the unit you lease, the more money you’ll save. By combining your belongings with friends and family, you can maximize your purchasing power and lease a larger unit. This strategy can lower your rent by 25 to 50 percent.
Check Discounts and Monthly Specials
Self storage is a competitive industry. They work hard to obtain customers through monthly specials and seasonal promotions. Ask about discounts that can range anywhere from 10 to 25 percent off regular price. You may even be able to score several months free.
Consider Your Options
Compare the self storage options in your area in terms of size, price, and amenities. Discuss your storage needs with the store manager. Staff is typically friendly and knowledgeable and able to help you sort through the available units, amenities (security and access), and contracts. Read all documents carefully prior to signing.
Take a Chance on Negotiation
As mentioned above, self storage is a competitive industry. Some providers have strict pricing policies, while others may be willing to accommodate certain needs. It doesn’t hurt to ask. You may end up with a larger space for your money.
Don’t Make Your Storage Unit a Huge Junk Drawer
The ever-present junk drawer – everybody has one. It’s full of tools that don’t work, pens that have run out of ink, dead batteries, and those mystery items that seem to appear out of nowhere. Don’t use your storage unit for this kind of junk. Scrutinize everything you store so that you’re only paying for space that you need. You don’t have to go full on KonMari Method, but you should use the “keep, discard, donate” piles to determine what is most important to you and your family.
Pack Your Unit Efficiently
Put some thought into the way you pack and store your items. Use your space effectively by packing boxes fully, storing large items in the back of the unit, and remembering to use the vertical space – most units have 8 foot ceilings. With careful planning and efficient packing, you may be able to downsize to a less expensive unit.
Use the Free Truck
Many self storage facilities offer the use of a free truck with a move-in. Take advantage of this benefit, as well as discounts on available moving and packing supplies.
Conclusion
Whatever your budget or your reason for needing a self storage solution, you want a good deal on a convenient, safe self storage unit. Allowing yourself to be creative and flexible by using some of the money saving self storage tips we shared, can get you the best value and potentially shave hundreds of dollars from your expenses.