Storage Unit Checklist: 15 Must-Haves for First-Time Renters

Renting a storage unit for the first time? Whether decluttering, moving, or storing valuable items, finding the right facility ensures peace of mind and a hassle-free experience. Let's explore 15 must-have features for choosing a storage facility.

1. Stable Rent Prices

It is no secret that moving can be a pain, which makes it imperative that you find a storage unit you can trust.

Imagine getting all your stuff packed up, moving out of your home, and into a storage unit—only to find the storage price increases one month later. Do you go through the hassle of finding a new unit and moving all over again? Or do you fork over more money than you budgeted for? Unfortunately, this is the reality for many first-time storage renters. Find a facility that offers stable rent prices, ideally with no increase for at least 365 days, so your budget remains predictable.

2. 21-Day Grace Period on Late Fees

Moving can have unpredictable impacts on your finances. For example, it is common to find renters carrying all sorts of upfront moving expenses while left waiting for a return deposit or profits from selling a home to clear. 

Some storage facilities take advantage of this financial stress with quick late fees on storage rent. Instead, Sunbird Storage works to help our customers with a generous 21-day grace period before applying late fees.

3. Full Month's Value

Some storage providers charge on a 28-day billing cycle (AKA the "four-week sneak"). While it might seem like they offer great deals and lower pricing, these plans charge your card more frequently, which adds up to one full extra payment every year. Customers walk away feeling like they have a discount, but in reality, they pay 8.33% more. 

Additionally, 28-day billing cycles put your charges on a different day each month, making it easier to miss a payment. Paired with the quick late fees mentioned above, it is easy to slip into exceptionally high pricing. Instead, opt for facilities offering full-month pricing for better budget control.

4. 7-Day Money-Back Guarantee

First-time renters may feel unsure of whether or not self-storage units are right for them. If you want a risk-free trial run, find a storage provider with a 7-day money-back guarantee. This policy allows you to test the facility without financial risk, giving you peace of mind while helping you find the right storage solutions for you. 

5. Local Customer Support vs. Hard-to-Reach Call Centers

Personalized service is key. Chances are, you know the pain of dealing with remote call centers or AI support "solutions" that pass you around in circles without answering your questions. These 3rd-party teams are hard to reach and rarely understand your needs. Sometimes, you just want to talk to a real person. First-time renters need a facility with local customer support and friendly on-site office staff. These staff members can make renting easy while putting your mind at ease and helping you through the rental process, every step of the way. 

6. Virtual Tours

Especially for first-time storage renters, you may want to tour a new unit before signing up. However, the stress of moving or long-distance moves may make this challenging. You can save time by selecting a facility that offers virtual tours, allowing you to assess the unit's size, security, and accessibility from the comfort of your home.

7. Comprehensive Storage Solutions

Your needs can change throughout your storage window. Imagine one year, you sign up for storage because you need a little extra space for your seasonal items. Before you know it, these "seasonal items" include a new boat (and its trailer + accessories). If you partner with a limited facility, you may find yourself needing to pack up and move again each time your circumstances shift. Instead, look for facilities that offer comprehensive storage solutions, including:

• Moving solutions for easy transitions

• Household storage for seasonal items or extra belongings

• Business storage to keep inventory secure

• Mailboxes and Package Receiving Services

• Vehicle storage, including spaces for:

• Cars

• Motorcycles

• RVs

• Boats

8. No Long-Term Contracts

Many seasoned storage renters know that life's plans can shift unexpectedly. Whether moving, downsizing, or simply reassessing your space needs, committing to a long-term storage contract can quickly become costly. While it might sound like a steal upfront, these long-term contracts often come with expensive buyouts, adding unnecessary stress to already complex situations. 

To avoid these financial pitfalls and maintain control over your storage needs, consider facilities that offer month-to-month leasing. This approach allows you the freedom to adjust or relocate your storage without long-term obligations, ensuring that your storage solution remains as flexible as your evolving plans.

9. Flexible Access Hours

Need access to your items outside traditional hours? Look for units with extended availability, ensuring you can retrieve your belongings whenever necessary. While our hours may vary slightly by facility, our general access hours are 6 AM - 11 PM. 

10. Clean and Secure Facilities

Safety and cleanliness are two non-negotiables when choosing a storage facility. To keep your items safeguarded, there are a few considerations you can look out for when choosing a storage provider, including:

• Clean and modern units: The units, hallways, floors, and bathrooms should look, feel, and smell clean.  

• 24/7 Surveillance cameras: Camera security is essential for deterring crime and ensuring you get the support you need if the unthinkable happens. 

• Gated access with unique PIN codes: Gated PIN access ensures that only active renters are allowed on-site.

• Lock checks: Occasional lock checks help to deter issues and catch concerns before they become problems. 

11. Protection Plans

Even with the highest level of security, damage, theft, and unforeseen circumstances are possible, which is why most units require proof of insurance or a Contents Protection Plan. For added convenience, look for a storage provider that offers in-house protection plans. For example, Sunbird Storage offers plans ranging from $3,000 to $10,000, so you can find the right solution for your budget. 

12. Climate Control

Certain items (like electronics, furniture, and artwork) require climate-controlled storage to protect against humidity and extreme temperatures. By choosing a storage provider that offers true climate control, you can trust that your most sensitive and valuable belongings will remain protected. 

13. Convenience Features

Moving is stressful enough, so it is vital to find a storage facility that works to make things easier. Small conveniences make a big difference! Consider storage facilities that provide:

• Moving and packing supplies on-site for purchase

• Drive-up units for quick access

• Spacious unloading bays

• Moving carts and elevator access

• Online reservations and renewals

14. Discounts for Active Military, Veterans, Seniors, and Students

In addition to everyday low prices and occasional promotions, qualifying renters may also look for units with special discounts. For example, Sunbird Storage offers:

• 20% off for military personnel

• 20% off for veterans

• 10% off for seniors

• 10% off for students

15. Easily Switch Units and Sizes as Your Needs Change

Your storage requirements may evolve over time. Choose a provider that allows easy unit upgrades or downgrades, maintaining the perfect fit for your belongings. Convenient switching can minimize the stress of moving while saving you money, ensuring you only pay for what you need. 

Choose Sunbird Storage: Industry-Leading Storage Solutions

If you are looking for reliable, industry-leading storage in Winston-Salem, Charlotte, Greensboro, and Clemmons, Sunbird Storage is here for you. We offer all of the incredible advantages listed above and more. You can contact our experts or find a facility near you to get started today!