Traditional Self Storage or Mobile Storage?

Are you in need of a self storage rental quickly? Let’s look at the advantages of traditional self storage over mobile storage.

The two are very similar but have important differences. It can be overwhelming with all the packing and moving to try and decide which storage rental is the right one for you.

Both mobile storage and self storage rentals will come in several different sizes. You can choose to rent one that is very small for personal storage, or something large enough to hold a boat, car or office equipment.

mobile self storageMobile storage units often come to you, making them convenient, however you need to have a place to put them. If you currently rent a home or apartment, it’s unlikely the owners will allow a mobile storage unit to be placed on their property. Some cities also prohibit parking these units on the street.

Traditional self storage units also often offer climate control. If you are storing items that can be hurt or damaged by heat, cold, moisture, or vermin, then you may want to pay extra for a climate controlled unit. Another benefit of traditional self storage is that units are always in one location.

However the main reason traditional self storage wins out over mobile is security.

Mobile storage units are out in the open, with only one security barrier: A lock. Some allow you to provide your own lock, which makes you the primary one responsible for security.

traditional self storageTraditional self storage facilities are often surrounded by a gate, walls or are somehow blocked off from the public. Many facilities utilize key code security just to access the facility.

Another advantage of traditional self storage is that units are sometimes housed in a large building. This adds an extra layer of security onto your self storage unit as it usually has 24-hour security with cameras and even a guard.

Keep these comparisons in mind when you are considering going for either a traditional self storage unit or a mobile storage unit.

Indoor Or Outdoor Self Storage?

There are many different types of storage rentals, from small self storage units found in secure buildings to mobile storage units that can be placed anywhere.

If you are planning to rent a storage rental it’s a good idea to spend some time thinking about what type of storage space you need.

  • Are you planning to store larger items such as a boat?
  • Smaller household items like paper products or clothing?

You should also ask yourself how long you will need the storage rental for, how much you’re willing to pay, and if you need easy access.

Once those questions have been answered you can start shopping around for the best storage rental for you.

Here are some options you’ll encounter:

Outdoor Self Storage

If you’re looking to store large outdoor and seasonal items such as boats, bikes, motorcycles, snowmobiles or equipment, you need a storage facility with easy outdoor access.

Outdoor storage is ideal because the facilities are often secured (though some are not, so be sure to ask) and sometimes even have security patrolling the location at night.

Outdoor self storage units are also convenient no matter what you are storing because you simply enter the facility and pull your vehicle up to the unit.

Some drawbacks to outdoor self storage are weather or pest damage, so be sure to inquire about what precautions the facility takes to ensure your belongings are protected.

Indoor Self Storage

These units are mostly found in large buildings with lots of security.

You often have to enter a secure site to reach your unit. This can be a drawback to people who want 24-hour easy access to their storage rental.

You should always make sure that your unit is climate controlled so your belongings aren’t hurt by heat, cold, or moisture.

Indoor self storage units are ideal for things like clothing, books, furniture, and household belongings. It’s also a perfect place for office or home business storage.