Storage Tips for First-Time Renters
While some New Yorkers have been using offsite storage for decades, others have still been trying to cram everything they own into their crowded apartments, houses, and offices. One of the best ways to think about self-storage is like gaining an extra room in your home. It's the smartest way to store items that you only use occasionally or seasonally. With self-storage, you will reclaim more living space and avoid the frustration of dealing with daily clutter that surrounds you in every direction.
If, for the first time, you are thinking about getting a storage space for rent, you're in the right place because we're here at Stop & Stor to walk you through every step of the process. First-time renters will also benefit from learning a few tips so that they are well-prepared for their storage experience without any unwanted surprises or hassles. Storage unit rentals are our business, so read on to learn about storage tips for first-timers!
Visit the Unit Before Renting It
One common mistake among first-time renters is renting a unit sight-unseen and assuming that all units are the same. But if you visit a facility, view several differently sized rooms, and speak with a trained customer service representative, you'll gain the peace of mind that you need to rent the most efficiently sized room for your unique needs.
What Size Storage Unit Do I Need?
This is a common question that our customers ask us at Stop & Stor and one that we can definitely help you figure out. When you visit the unit in person, you may better understand how much stuff you have and where it will fit into. We can help you avoid the common first-time renter mistake of renting the wrong size of unit online and then having to move everything twice because the unit is either too large or too small. After all, why jam everything into a space that’s too tiny or pay for extra room that you’re not using?
Take Advantage of 1st Month Free Storage and Other Deals
Stop & Stor offers special deals and promotions throughout the year to help you save money on storage costs. It is wise to learn about these offers before you rent to take advantage of them and get the best deal possible.
For example, you may be able to get 1st-month free storage if you are a first-time renter. Other promotions to jump on at your local Stop & Stor location include referral benefits, free truck rental, and guaranteed no rent increase for at least a full year. Discounts are also available for students, seniors, and veterans.
Learn more here: Cost Savings Promotions & Benefits
Ask About Rate Increases
Unfortunately, many storage companies raise their rates as part of their ongoing business model – sometimes very aggressively, by more than 25%, and multiple times per year. At first, this might not seem important because you’re only planning to rent a unit for a short time. However, unplanned and unannounced rate increases can happen at any time and catch you off-guard.
In contrast, Stop & Stor is the only company in New York City that guarantees your rate, in writing, for a full year. Sure, all storage companies are in the business of making money, but we feel like constantly upsetting customers isn’t the right way to go about it. When you choose Stop & Stor, you’ll avoid the sudden surprise of an unexpected, budget-busting rate increase. Enjoy peace of mind with us that you can afford your monthly costs and stick to your budget!
Learn How to Pack a Storage Unit
Yes, there are right and wrong ways to pack a storage unit. Believe us; we've seen it all!
Some effective strategies for packing a storage unit are to take inventory of what you put inside, label everything in the unit, and use sturdy plastic containers instead of cardboard boxes for greater durability. It may also help to organize your storage unit by priority of the items, create a map so that you can find things quickly, and put the heaviest boxes on the bottom layer so that you can stack things on top of them and make use of the vertical space.
Know What You Can and Can’t Store Inside
Storage units for homeowners and businesses are not “catch-all's” that you necessarily put anything and everything into. They can help you find extra space for many different things, but not everything. Examples of things that you typically should not put inside a self-storage unit are flammable materials, stolen goods, and money.
Learn more here: 10 Things NOT To Put in Storage
Make Access Quick and Easy with a Drive-Through Building
There are different kinds of storage units that you can rent, including climate-controlled units, units, lockers for small amounts of items, and units that are outfitted with electrical outlets. As a first-time renter, one important option to consider is a unit in a drive-through building because these facilities will keep you comfortable and dry as you load and unload items with your vehicle. It's the fastest and easiest way to utilize a storage unit and an affordable choice too.
Request a Hand Cart to Help with Moving
When you arrive at the Stop & Stor location that you have selected, make sure to request a hand cart at the office to make moving even more accessible and faster. Don’t break your back or strain your muscles trying to lift and carry everything yourself. Instead, use our carts, dollies, and hand trucks to take good care of your body and make the moving process quicker and easier too.
Ensure That Your Unit Is Secure
Initially, some people may feel unsettled about storing their belongings in a location they don't see daily. But in fact, items in a Stop & Stor storage unit are much safer than in the average household or place of business. Before you decide on storage space for rent, ask the facility about its security program.
Here are some highlights of our state-of-the-art security program at Stop & Stor:
- 24/7 video surveillance
- Onsite, live-in caretaker
- Electric coded access
- Tenant protection plan available
Ask Questions…That’s Why We’re Here!
As a first-time renter, you might be concerned about the access, security, cost, or overall process of storing valuable items that you don’t have room for at home. We pride ourselves on our customer service and are here for you to answer all of the questions you have.
First-time renters are encouraged to call us at 718-698-8000 or contact us online anytime.
Established in 1980, Stop & Stor is a family owned and operated business that has become New York’s Self Storage Leader by offering cutting-edge facilities in the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island.
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Storage prices our competitors can’t beat. Act fast, these storage deals last for a limited time only. Reserve now and lock in the best storage price for a FULL YEAR – GUARANTEED. Contact Stop & Stor today to learn more about our storage options.