The storage industry is fast emerging nowadays because of its high demand --- many people are looking for places where they can store their "less needed" stuff when moving, where they can put some belongings to save space at home or offices, or where they can put their furniture and appliances when a remodelling should be done at their apartments. There are just several reasons to use a storage facility.

So if one of these reasons necessitates you to look for the best storage company to provide your storage needs, here are the most important questions to ask before deciding which facility to choose. You sure don't want to settle for just any storage facility. I know you want the best.

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1. How much do I need to pay for rent (storage plan) and in addition to rent?

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This is the first thing in our minds if we want to avail/buy a service or a product. Which one is the cheapest but with the best quality? Several storage companies offer their services cheaper compared to other players in the industry. It's okay to choose the storage with the cheapest rental rates but be careful not to be trapped --- always check if there are hidden charges.

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2. What are the special offers and promotions?

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Always check for special offers and promotions. This may save you a lot of money, and sometimes, time and effort? Why? Because some storage companies offer a first-month free subscription. Others give a free pick-up and load service plus a free delivery if you are a first-time customer. Some provide a significant discount if you book or pay ahead of time. How does that sound to you?

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3. Can I pay my fees online or via auto-pay?

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If you are a busy bee, you may want to pay your bills online to save you from going to payment centres or the storage facility to pay for your rental fees. Check if the storage company offers an online bill payment or auto-pay. This makes your life so much easier.

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4. Is the facility protected with security systems?

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No one wants to put his belongings in a place that is not adequately taken care of. Check for the security systems installed in the facility. Is the storage unit has a CCTV for 24-hour monitoring? Is there a burglar alarm? You don't want an intruder to get a chance to come near your stuff. Is there a fire alarm? These are the crucial concerns you have to consider before choosing a storage facility.

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5. Is the facility accessible?

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You may want to consider the proximity of the storage facility to your home or workplace so that if something came up and you need to get your bag or document securely stored in the facility, it's easy for you to visit the place. Also, check for the hours of access. You need to know the schedule when to pick up or drop off your things. Check for storage facilities that offer 24-hour access if you are someone who remembers to visit the storage or to get a document at midnight.

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6. Do I need to avail of an insurance package before signing a contract? If so, how much do I need to pay for insurance?

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Some storage companies offer insurance packages if you don't have third-party insurance already arranged for your essential, luxurious or valuable belongings. If you are someone who wishes to store something useful, look for a storage company that offers this service. But be careful not be forced to avail of an insurance package if you will store old clothes and toys that you wish to donate in the future. Don't spend another penny if it's not worth it.

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7. Is the facility has special control features to keep my stuff safe and in its best condition?

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Search for storage facilities installed with climate-control systems --- especially if you plan to store electronics, designer/leather bags, shoes or suits, or anything prone to weather-related damage. You keep your items in a storage unit to preserve, not to damage.

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8. Does the facility have pest control?

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You don't want pests such as bugs or rodents inside your storage unit. You want your stuff safe from any damage these pests may cause. Look for a storage facility with a clear procedure for pest control. Make sure that this is being done regularly.

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9. Does the storage company also offer pick-up, load, and deliver services?

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This is another significant concern for storage customers. You want it a one-time big-time --- like you just want to book a storage unit and leave the rest of the work to the storage staff (packing the items, loading, unloading, etc.). Some storage companies offer these services for additional fees or with significant discounts and promos. Make sure to choose a storage company with these offering, so you don't have to make a separate booking for vans or trucks for pick-up and delivery and to hire people for packing and loading.

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10. Are staff available during your storage visits and for patrolling?

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This is an essential concern if you want to check on your belongings now and then, and if you want to make sure that someone, who is not a bot, monitoring and securing your items.

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