Self-Storage is Cheaper Than You Think

Self-storage has been around for years now and although it is probably one of the most convenient services available today, there has always been a stigma connected with the cost of using self-storage facilities. There are some people who would actually assume that a possibility of financial burden may arise from the considerable amount of money they spend for self-storage. Looking from that point, they tend to neglect the fact of how much money they will save from using these services. Here are some more reasons why people should reconsider their defensive stance towards self-storage:

• The length of time you intend to store your things factors in on the relative price paid for your use of the service. Assuming that you are one of those overly-thrifty persons wary of the money you shell out, self-storage is not really that expensive because it is solely dependent on what the client needs at a specific instance.
• Discounts are usually available, especially for first-time users. If you are having doubts, there are plenty of facilities around that could prove that statement. It is quite easy to get the best deal out of it. If you look at the scenario closely, the need for self-storage can possibly be a one-time deal, and because of that some of these facilities are generous with their discounts.
• The space versus cost ratio is reasonably balanced. For example, a 100-square foot of space can cost you $100 a month, give or take. You have to admit, that is a small price to pay considering the benefits you gain from storing your stuff. For business owners and other affluent clients, some storage facilities even promote bigger spaces for practicality and cost-effectiveness. Again, you do n0t have to think about how much it will cost you if you only realize how much you are actually saving from using self-storage.
• There is a high possibility to be charged at lower rates for long-term storage. Usually, people would believe that the cost of self-storage may rise up if you store a lot of things for a longer amount of time; however you also have to think about what the benefits are, and how these benefits outweigh the cons. You might hesitate to go for self-storage because outwardly it seems like it will cost you a fortune. Whereas the large amount of money you save from using these storage facilities is actually substantial enough, even if you factor out the possible maintenance fees and security fees for long-term use.

 

Having enumerated some key details about the relatively low cost of self-storage coupled with its immense practicality, we can safely conclude that indeed, self-storage is cheaper than most people would assume.

Drew Mers is a consultant to City Closet Self Storage, one of the largest independently owned self storage companies, with locations throughout New York and New Jersey.

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10 Reasons Why Self Storage Is A Great Idea

There are plenty of reasons why self storage is a good idea for lots of different people. Perhaps you are moving house and have some precious items that you can't take with you to your new home but don't want to throw away then self storage is the perfect solution. This means you don't have to clutter up your new home, have to go through the trauma of throwing precious items away or have to turn to friends and family to store things on your behalf. Self storage also comes in handy if your family is expanding and you need the extra room, if you don't have enough room in the office for all of your important documents or if you have a large collection of memorabilia and no room for it at home.

Self storage is the perfect solution for people looking for somewhere to store items. Most self storage areas can be found in residential and office districts so they are extremely convenient.

Here are ten top reasons why self storage is a great alternative:

1. You can choose a self storage unit close to where you live at the moment or near your new home so that access is made easy and convenient.

2. You need only rent as much space as you need; therefore you are not wasting any money. You also will have free access 24/7.

3. Safety is of paramount importance when it comes to self storage. Most units will have security arrangements to make sure that all your precious items are kept safe and out of harms way from moisture and theft. Look out for units that are climate controlled if you want to store expensive antiques and art.

4. Self storage units are cost effective as you can tailor the service to fit in with your needs. Choose the size and the time-frame you want the unit for to ensure that you only pay for what you need.

5. A self storage unit is the perfect solution if you need space to repair your home or carry out any home decorating.

6. If you run a business from home or are struggling to find space to organize all your documents in the office, then self storage is a great place to store all your office supplies or documents that you don't need to hand but need to keep.

7. If you are a bit of a hoarder then it might be time for a de-clutter at home. If you don't want to throw things away then putting all of your excess furniture, books and other knick knacks in a self storage unit could be the answer to all your problems.

8. If you're moving home dates don't quite line up then a self storage unit could be the ideal place to store your things once you have sold your home and are waiting to move into your new property.

9. For those who have a hobby that takes up a lot of space such as collecting sports memorabilia, a self storage unit is the perfect place to store your collection. Here your collection will stay safe and out of the way.

10. Finally, if you are an athlete or a keen sportsman then you may collect a lot of equipment or awards over your sporting career. These can take up a lot of room which can clutter up your home and garage.

If you think that self storage could be the answer to all your storage problems then head to the internet to have a look at your options. Online you can locate units nears where you live and compare rental rates to make sure that you get the best deal.

As an alternative to a self storage unit, Jason Kay urges you to consider portable storage. You can save money with a Pods promo code.

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Understanding Self Storage Solutions

With the world moving at an increasingly dizzying pace, people are looking to simplify and de-clutter their lives as much as possible. This trend is illustrated in the popular television shows that help people clean out and organize their belongings. One thing that these shows prove - it seems that it becoming harder for people to manage the space they rent, own or lease. And that's exactly why many are turning to self storage as a solution.

Whether you're looking to store a few small items, archive your business paperwork in a secure environment, or put meaningful but unusable possessions in a safe place, a self-storage unit could be the flexible, cost-effective solution that is right for you.

What is Self-Storage?

Self-storage facilities offer individual storage units for rent. They offer a secure, often climate-controlled, environment that ensures your belongings are kept in optimum conditions. Since this environment is often better than that in people's attics or garages, items that are stored run the gamut from personal keepsakes to prized vintage automobiles.

A Do-It-Yourself Option

Traditionally, when people were moving and needed temporary storage or wanted to store business documents, they had to hire a company to move and store their belonging. Today, consumers and business people have another option. To simplify their storage experience, they choose the do-it-yourself solution - self storage.

Self Storage units = Flexible Storage Experience

Self storage is an extremely flexible alternative to traditional storage methods. You choose what items to store, and how much to store, what size unit to rent, and when to retrieve your items. Based on the volume of items you are going to store, you can choose to rent a closet-sized unit (mini self storage unit), or a unit that will accommodate an automobile, boat or just lots of 'stuff'. Also unlike traditional storage methods, self storage facilities allow you access to your storage space at any time during business hours. And, you'll find many self storage companies offer month-to-month rental agreements so you aren't "locked in" with a long contract.

In most cases, you can just drive up to your self storage unit, remove some or all of your items, add items, or just check on your progress in filling up the space. You can also upgrade or downgrade the size of your unit as needed, making overpaying for wasteful, unused space a thing of the past.

Secure, Hassle-Free Storage Solution

Unlike traditional storage methods, using self storage means you are the only person who will have access to your individual unit, unless you choose to add another authorized key holder. Given that you adhere to your rental agreement and payment terms, nobody can access or move your things without your specific permission, making self storage one of the easiest and most secure ways to store your belongings. Most reputable self storage buildings will also safeguard your belongings with their own security measures, including onsite managers, closed-circuit video cameras that are constantly monitored and other onsite security features.

Mr. Kleindienst is a self storage company executive. He has a passion for helping consumers with Florida (FL) self storage, New York (NY) self storage and New Jersey (NJ) Self Storage.

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Tips in Maintaining Leather Products Due for Storage

Leather can last you for a lifetime if you store and maintain it well enough. When you purchase leather products, treat them as if they were your automobile. When stored properly, you will be amazed by how they function and look even years after you first purchase them. Here are some tips to help you out!

Acid free stuffing paper

When you are storing leather products such as shoes and shirts, you will definitely need paper to retain their shape. However, acid paper will attack the leather and cause damage to them. Use acid free stuffing paper when you need to stuff leather products!

Hang leather clothes

When you are storing leather clothes, hang them instead of folding them to prevent creases. Creases over time will add stress to the leather and cause them to crack. Also, use sturdy wooden hangers instead of plastic ones when you are hanging leather clothes. Plastic hangers are subjected to a plastic deformation called creep and this will cause the leather to be destroyed due to the heavy weight of the garment.

Leather moisturizer

Prior to storage, you should apply generous amounts of leather moisturiser or conditioners onto the leather products. These moisturisers commonly contain natural substances such as coconut oil, lanolin and beeswax. These will ensure that your leather products are properly hydrated and protected against moisture and dirt.

Use a well ventilated container

You should always store leather items in a breathable container. Using an air tight container will cause all the moisture to accumulate and eventually damage your leather product. A breathable container allows for the frequent exchange of air, keeping your product fresh and odour-free.

Keep away from sunlight

Sunlight is the greatest enemy of leather. Sunlight will dry up the fibres inside leather and cause it to be dehydrated and crack. Sunlight will also cause discolouration of leather. So always remember to store it somewhere dark and cool.

Place a dehumidifier nearby

Placing a good dehumidifier nearby in the storage area will absorb excessive moisture and prevent it from damaging your stored items. Moisture is essential to prevent cracking but too much of it will damage your things instead. A good dehumidifier doesn't cause much but it will be a saviour to your leather items.

It is not difficult to store leather products if you follow the tips listed above. Storing it properly will ensure that your leather goods will serve you well for a long time. After all, leather products are meant to last a lifetime.

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The Top 10 Reasons People Use Self Storage

Self storage has become a big business over the last few years with more and more of us turning to it in times of need. Exactly what are people using it for however? Below is a list of the top 10 reasons why people are using these facilities.

10) Retirement - it's very common for people to downsize once they hit retirement. Although the cheaper living costs are a big bonus of this, the lack of space might not be. For this reason many people choose to store excess furniture or sentimental items away for a rainy day.

9) Divorce - sadly, divorce is affecting more and more people across the country. Many of those in this situation may find themselves moving to a smaller home as they don't require as much space anymore or renting somewhere temporarily until they find something more permanent. Either way, space can become an issue which is why many turn to self storage for those bits of furniture that they just don't want to throw away.

8) Business use - a huge amount of companies are opting to use self storage facilities to store excess stock, furniture that isn't being used and even to run their business from.

7) Frequent travelling - those who travel frequently may not have a permanent home and therefore require somewhere to store important belongings so they don't have to lug it around with them everywhere. Additionally, those who are away from home a lot may worry about the security of valuable items so choose to store them away somewhere safe.

6) Winter storage - boats, motorbikes and classic cars are frequently stored away over the winter months when their owners can't use them.

5) Hobby/sports equipment - similarly to the reason above, some people have seasonal hobbies that require a lot of equipment but they don't want it taking up valuable room in the house when it's not being used for months on end.

4) De-cluttering - every once in a while it's nice to do a good old spring clean. Whilst we may have the best intentions when it comes to de-cluttering, there are some things that are just too difficult to throw away. For this reason many people choose to keep it stored away so it's not cluttering the house but they can still access it whenever they want.

3) Downsizing - the third most common reason people use self storage is because they need somewhere to keep furniture and other household items after downsizing.

2) Moving home - coming in at number two is moving home. Anyone who has ever done it will know how stressful the process can be and that it rarely goes according to plan. Many find themselves in the situation where they have to be out of their current home but their new place isn't ready yet. Staying with friends and family or in temporary accommodation is a life-saver but it's virtually impossible to take all of our furniture with us so many opt to put it in storage.

1) Need more space - the most common reason why people need self storage is because they don't have enough space. With house prices sky high at the moment this comes as no surprise as people can no longer afford big homes that are blessed with plenty of storage space.

MStore offers self storage for all your domestic, business and specialist requirements. To use the space calculator, find your nearest store or view our special offers, please visit our website

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Interesting Facts About Self Storage

Chances are that you or someone you know has used self storage at some point because although it's still a relatively new concept, it certainly has taken off all around the world. Below are just a few interesting facts about the industry and some of the most common reasons people choose to store their valuables.

The history of self storage

Self storage was first introduced in America in the 1960s. 55 years later it is estimated that there are more than 53,000 facilities across the country. The concept didn't move over to Britain until the 1980s but in that short space of time there are now more than 800 facilities across the country which equates to an incredible 29.6 million square feet of storage space.

Why do so many businesses use self storage facilities?

More and more companies across the world are choosing to use self storage facilities but why exactly is this? The top reasons include because they don't have enough room at their premises for excess stock, they need somewhere to store office equipment that isn't currently being used and because they're moving offices so need somewhere to store everything in between moves. Additionally to this, many Internet-based businesses choose to run their business from self storage units or wish to use them as a distribution point.

Who uses self storage?

Stealing the top position by just 1% is businesses. Approximately 36% of all self storage users are companies with home movers just behind with 35%. 11% of people using these facilities are those who wish to declutter their homes, 10% are home owners who are currently renovating their property and 4% are students who simply don't have the space for all their belongings in their accommodation.

How long do people store their stuff for?

Interestingly, over the years the length of time people are storing their belongings for is increasing. In 2007 the average time was 22 weeks, by 2009 this had increased to 32 weeks, in 2011 it was 37 weeks and now it's a whopping 41 weeks. This no doubt has something to do with the fact that as house prices have increased excess space is not something people have a lot of anymore.

In some parts of the country self storage has become so popular that it's almost taking over the number of people who live their. In Edinburgh for example, there is 442,000 square feet of storage facilities versus 450,000 people. In London there is 8.5 million square feet compare to 8.3 million people.

MStore offers self storage in for all your domestic, business and specialist requirements. To use the space calculator, find your nearest store or view our special offers, please visit our website

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Self Storage Facility Moving Checklist

Moving to a new home can be stressful. Before you start packing, proper advanced planning can save you time, money and stress! Waiting until the last minute can be stressful and risky if you have moving deadlines that you need to meet. Below is a checklist to reference when preparing to move.

Countdown: One Month

The one month mark is a good opportunity to start getting organized. There's definitely a lot to do, but don't worry. By giving yourself plenty of time, you are ensuring an easier move. Activities at the one month point typically fall into three categories: administrative, collecting and sorting. If applicable, make sure to give your landlord notice of your move (some leases require 60 days or more). Begin to coordinate with utility providers. This means contacting the telephone and cable company to set up services. Also, inform your gas (oil if applicable) and electric provides that you will be the contact at your new property. A final administrative function is to tell work that you'll need time off for the move.

At the one month mark you'll want to start sorting your items into three piles: keep, toss and store. The amount of sorting you do will also dictate how much packing material you need. This is also a good time to start collecting packing materials.

Countdown: Two Weeks

It is the two week point and hopefully you've done a thorough job sorting your stuff. This is a great opportunity to start packing the items you won't need until you're in your new place. At this point there are more administrative items to handle:

- Notify people about your change of address and arrange for the post office to forward your mail.

- Cancel monthly recurring household services such as newspaper delivery.

- Book a moving company, rental truck or self storage facility.

- If applicable, arrange moving transit insurance.

- If applicable, ask someone to look after your kids and pets.

Countdown: One Week

During this time there is probably an excitement in the air over which room in the new home will be used for different functions. Within the last week until the move you'll probably be busy working on packing and cleaning. During this time it is important to remember there are still some administrative things that need to occur. At this point you should be arranging for final bills to be paid (including having meters read) in addition, arrangements should be confirmed with utility companies.

There are also some administrative tasks and tactical issues that need to be addressed. You'll want to exchange keys during this time. Make sure to collect yours as soon as possible. Also, make a map of the new property for the moving company. Prior to the move make sure to have old blankets prepared to put down in the new home to protect the floors and carpets. Ask yourself, will your new home have enough storage space? If you answer "no," then you may want to consider making arrangements with a self storage company and also learn more about self storage units.

Countdown: One Day

Tomorrow's the big day! With one day remaining you'll want to start by sealing and labeling all moving boxes with the contents of the box and what room it needs to go to. If possible, consider staging these boxes towards the location of the moving truck--in a garage for example. You'll want to make sure you pack a container with essential emergency supplies until you are fully unpacked. Finally now is the time to finish cleaning your home. This includes defrosting the refrigerator and freezer.

Countdown: Day of Move

On the day of the move remember to focus around security and safety. Make sure you disconnect any remaining electrical appliances and ensure all lights are turned off. Before you lock the door one last time, make sure to account for all items at your new location.

Mr. Kleindienst is a self storage company executive. He works for Safeguard self storage, a self storage facility that offers various self storage units

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The Need For Self Storage Units During a Move

The feeling of purchasing a home is unlike any other. A combination of elation, pride, nerves and fear all mix together during the days leading up to the closing.

It becomes impossible to think about anything else, as if your brain is solely dedicated to the big, upcoming move. Whether it's across town or across state lines, everything has to be cleaned, packed and labeled in preparation. Two weeks beforehand, you might find yourself shocked by the amount of stuff you've managed to accumulate. Picture your guest room half filled with boxes and your current home isn't looking bare in the least. The thought is enough to make you wonder if everything in those boxes is really necessary. The answer: Probably not--if you've managed to box up or put aside a significant amount of possessions and furniture, and your home still looks comfortable and livable, it's time for a big decision.

Does all that extra stuff need to move to your new house with you-and will it fit in your new home or just clutter it up (especially if you are downsizing)?

Most of the time the answer is no, but that's not the biggest question you'll be asking yourself. What do I do with all of it? That's the biggie, the question that causes loss of sleep. While you won't miss boxes containing old yearbooks and childhood mementos on a day-today basis, those certainly aren't things you want to throw in the trash. After all, you might want to look at them someday, or show them to future children or grandchildren at the very least.

Those antique end tables that came from your grandmother's house might not go with your more modern decor, but you can't imagine leaving them out by the curb or offering them up for sale. Those end tables are the essence of your grandmother's old house, and while you don't share her design aesthetic, you loved her dearly and can't imagine not owning them. Surely someday you'll have a use for them, right?

The solution is simple. A self storage facility will allow you to hold on to the possessions you need to save, but also allow you to free up space in your home. Even better, renting a self storage space will prevent you from moving unused items and clutter into a new home.

It's ideal, having your cake and eating it, too. Your memories, unused but much-loved furniture and general unnecessary clutter all boxed up and moved out of your way, while still remaining easily accessible. If you were to suddenly have a change of heart and decide grandma's end tables will look great in your new living room, zipping over to the self storage facility and bringing them home is easy. Alternately, if a current interest in surfing, biking or canoeing fades, you've already got a safe, out of the way place to store all that bulky gear. And you'll know that when the season comes around again, or your interest in it picks back up, you'll be able to head over to your self storage unit, grab your gear, and get moving, all without having had to trip over surf boards, skis and canoes for the past year!

Storage units can be a life saver during a move, allowing you to keep organized and bring things into your new home at your own pace.

Mr. Kleindienst is a self storage unit company executive. He has a passion for helping consumers with New York self storage, and NJ self storage options.

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Finding the Right Self Storage Unit

While businesses utilize self storage facilities for document archives and secure equipment and inventory storage, the first place most people want to de-clutter and organize is their home. Whether it's for ordinary household items or family heirlooms, a modern self storage facility presents many options for secure storage, letting homeowners and renters reclaim their homes, basements and garages!

Because modern self storage facilities provide a multitude of storage options--including various unit sizes and climate-controlled units--the possibilities for what you can store are abundant. Some of the more common personal uses for self storage units include:

- Transition space: As a mid-point space to store items when moving from one house to another.

- Secured environment: Many people use self storage facilities to keep special family items and/or valuable collections safe.

- Seasonal storage: Whether its holiday decorations, off-season clothing or bulky sports equipment like skis, snowboards and surfboards--seasonal items are ideal for out-of-home storage.

- College students: Rather than packing up and hauling a dorm room full of stuff home (especially out of state) many college students opt to store their items near campus.

- Downsizing options: For many people who downsize after retirement, there simply isn't the necessary space to store all belongings in the home.

These are only some of the many personal reasons you may choose the secure, customizable solution provided by a self-storage facility. From more traditional uses, like storing home items while away, to parents storing Christmas gifts away from the prying hands and nosy eyes of little children, renting a self storage unit can ensure a safe, worry and hassle-free storage solution.

Self-storage units can also be a business asset, allowing secure archival of sensitive business documents. Look for self storage facilities that have fire and water proof construction, thereby ensuring that all your essential papers and files will be out of harm's way. When a pipe bursts or an electrical wire sparks in a traditional office building, the results can be catastrophic, leaving business owners saying, "We lost everything." Using a self storage facility to house your most confidential and important business documents ensures that your property will be safe should a flood, fire or accident occur. Beyond file and record storage, a self storage unit can also house overstocked office furniture, supplies and/or inventory. Self storage spaces come in many sizes, from storage for one file cabinet of documents to a room of desks, chairs and cubicle walls.

Popular reasons a business may choose to use a self storage unit include:

- To store old records and archived files.

- As a place for overstock and unused office furniture.

- During a move to a new office space.

- To keep important tax records, receipts and other vital documents.

- To store confidential or sensitive files that could be compromised if not secured.

- As an alternative to an expensive and inconvenient safe, or lock-box.

- To house seasonal and promotional items.

- And many more...

As you can see, both personal and business uses of a self-storage unit are limited only by your imagination. Self storage facilities have many units of varying sizes that can accommodate your customized requests for storage space. The facility's employees can also find a space that resides within your budget. Self storage is perfect for those who don't want a one-size-fits-all solution, and would prefer a personal and enjoyable experience as they store their belongings.

Mr. Kleindienst is a self storage company executive. He has a passion for helping consumers with Georgia (GA) self storage , Illinois (IL) self storage and Louisiana (LA) self storage.

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