Self Storage: A Modern Approach to Your Extra Space Needs

Self storage is a new concept in Latin America although not in the United States and other countries. In the past, an individual sized storage unit did not exist. A person who needed a small sized storage unit either had to look for a warehouse (often in an industrial park) that rented common area space to many customers or had to seek a solution among friends and family. Now, that same person has another option: the monthly rental of a self storage unit (from 25 sf in size to 500 sf in size). These units can be either ambient or climate controlled, they can be rented for as little as one month, the renter maintains his own lock and key and the renter determines who has access to the storage unit.

Self Storage: Preparing for Your Move

Normally, you should consider four things prior to renting a self storage unit: what you intend to store, your packing needs, how you intend to get your belongings to the storage facility and when you intend to move. Let's take the last item first.

If possible, you should consider moving your belongings from your home or business into a self storage unit during the week between 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. This will allow you to avoid the worst of the morning and afternoon rush hour. You will also get better service from the storage facility manager. Managers are often particularly busy during the early morning, late afternoon and on weekends. They can attend to your needs better during the mid-day.

Next, consider what you need to store. Self storage units come in sizes from 5' x 5' to 10' x 30' (and larger). The smallest units are often similar to an oversized closet and are appropriate for storing personal items, tools and small furniture items. The largest units are appropriate for storing all the belongings in a two or three bedroom home including an automobile and appliances. You should also consider whether you need a climate controlled storage unit which is appropriate for sensitive belongings including high end electronics. Please check our link to sizing at Size Estimator for further information.

You also need to consider how you will get your belongings to the self storage facility and how you will safely store them. You should consider renting a moving truck from the self storage facility or from a nearby vendor. You can sometimes get a free or discounted rental moving truck in connection with your self storage rental. Also, consider purchasing boxes, tape, bubble wrap, mattress covers and other items prior to moving your belongings into the storage unit. (See our link for packing and moving supplies at Packing Guidelines.) It only makes sense to protect the belongings that you are paying to store.

Self Storage: Climate Controlled or Ambient

Ah, the age-old question: is climate controlled or ambient storage preferable? Well, that depends on your tastes and your needs. As a rule of thumb, climate controlled storage is cleaner and provides somewhat more protection for your belongings. This is because climate controlled storage units are interior units (accessed from a hallway). They are less affected by dirt and dust; they are temperature controlled (air conditioned and/or heated) and often humidity controlled.

Regular or ambient self storage units are also appropriate for many renters. Ambient units are less expensive than climate controlled units and they are easier to access. Often, you can drive right up to your self storage unit and drop your belongings off. You will save time and money. Also, it is fair to say that many, if not, most items can be safely stored in ambient self storage units. Some people prefer the comfort and extra protection of climate controlled units; some people prefer the economy and ease of access of regular units.

Self Storage: The Bottom Line

Although self storage has undergone huge changes in the last 40 years, its initial attraction remains: self storage is a cheap and easy way for people to store their belongings. If you need storage, review the information on www.BodegasAmerica.com. Then, look for one of our close-by secure, clean and professionally managed facilities. We are here to help you!