Real Storage: Real Take on Self Storage

2. Tell us about self-storage; in what unique situations do people utilize self storage?
Self storage (shorthand for "self-service storage", and also known as "mini storage") is an industry in which storage space (such as rooms, lockers, containers, and/or outdoor space), also known as "storage units" is rented to tenants, usually on a short-term basis (often month-to-month). Self-storage users primarily include businesses and individuals Industry experts often refer to the 4Ds of life when explaining why consumers rent self-storage space. The 4Ds are death, divorce, downsizing and dislocation. Self-storage facilities rent space on a short-term basis (often month-to-month, though options for longer-term leases are available) to individuals (usually storing household goods) or to businesses (usually storing excess inventory or archived records). Real Storage offer boxes, locks, and packing supplies for sale to assist users in packing and safekeeping their goods, and also offer truck rentals (allowing free use of a truck for a new user). Items are generally not covered by the facility's insurance; the user may be covered by his/her own insurance policy (if such policy has coverage for items stored off the premises of the insured) or may purchase insurance to cover the items (which Real Storage offers through Storage Shield a service through our third-party carrier, Cowan Insurance Group). The rented spaces are secured by the user's own lock and key. Unlike in a warehouse, self-storage facilities do not have casual access to the contents of the space (and, thus, the facility is generally not liable for theft). A self-storage facility does not take possession or control of the contents of the space unless a lien is imposed for non-payment of rent, or if the unit is not locked the facility may lock the unit until the user provides his/her own lock. Popular unit sizes include 10x5 (10 feet wide by 5 feet (1.5 m) deep) which is about the size of a large walk-in closet, 10x10 (the size of a child's bedroom), 10x20 (one-car garage), 15x20 and 20x20 (two-car garage). 10x10's are the most common storage unit size, making up 16% of the distribution. Storage units are typically window-less, walled with corrugated metal, and lockable by the renter. Each unit is usually accessed by opening a roll-up metal door, which is usually about the same size as a one-car garage door (smaller units may be accessed by a hinged metal door.

3. How much and what type of space do I need?
Garages aren't always roomy enough to store seasonal essentials throughout the year. That's one reason drive-up storage is a popular choice for items like holiday decorations and lawn mowers. Drive-up storage units are also a great place to park those appliances while you wait to move into your new home Drive-up self storage is a favorite among homeowners, renters, businesses and retailers. Typically the size of a one-car garage, drive-up storage units are ideal for boxes, small-engine vehicles, seasonal items, sports equipment, appliances and toys. Plus, business operators value drive-up storage units for storage of equipment, files, signage and seasonal inventory

Closets are wonderful, but there never seems to be enough room for everything. Indoor storage is like having a very spacious walk-in closet! For the times you're between residences or offices, indoor self-storage units act more like houses or offices with spaces large enough to store the contents of a seven-bedroom home or five office rooms. And you don't have to worry about damage to items that are sensitive to climate. Climate controlled self-storage is your solution for furniture storage or artwork storage, as well as storage of other sensitive valuables. Indoor storage is often the storage choice of customers who prefer a more comfortable, house-like setting. It's useful for everything from appliance storage to storage for collectibles. When you select temperature controlled storage, you can feel comfortable storing climate-sensitive valuables like antiques, electronics, artwork, wine and pharmaceuticals. Whether you're looking for a unit appropriate for apartment storage or a unit for storing the contents of a large house, indoor storage is accommodating and comfortable.

Reserved parking is a luxury that's within reach with outdoor storage. Whether you're looking for car storage, RV storage or motorcycle storage, or just dreaming of an extra outdoor storage shed, your outdoor storage space is waiting for you Customers who choose outdoor storage are looking for secure storage for vehicles. Many customers use their spaces for boat storage or RV storage, while businesses store trailers and trucks. The spaces are also ideal for outdoor bike storage.

4. Do you have some tips for selecting a self storage company?
Here are some features to ask about as you compare self-storage providers:

• Unit sizes.  Before you select a storage unit, take an inventory of which items you want to store.  Then work with a representative from the storage company to determine your space requirements.  You don't want a unit that's so small as to crowd and possibly damage your possessions but you also don't want to spend extra money on space you won't fill.  
• Surveillance.  Does the facility have 24-hour surveillance cameras to deter theft and, when necessary, record any illicit activities? Have motion detectors been strategically installed? Is the facility well-lit?  The safest facilities put measures into place to discourage criminal activity: a gated entry, security fence, limited after-hours entry, exterior lighting, 24-hour surveillance and, often, security guards.
• Alarm systems.  At a minimum, storage facilities have an alarm triggered by the main gate. 
• Neighbourhood.  Make sure that your storage unit is located in a low-crime neighbourhood, where theft is less likely to be a threat.
• Access.  Who will have access to your storage unit? During which hours will you have access?  You should be the only person who has a key to your unit.  As for when you may access your belongings, many, but not all, facilities offer 24/7 access.  If the company you choose does allow customer entry at any time of day or night, use extra caution when accessing your unit during nighttime hours.
• Climate control.  If the items you're storing are sensitive to to heat, cold, dust or moisture, ask about climate-controlled storage units.  These specially controlled environments can help protect your electronic devices, important documents, furs and the like.
• Specialized storage options.  Owners of sports, racing, classic, antique or vintage cars often look for storage units for their prized possession.
• Insurance protection.  Storage companies offer insurance coverage in case of theft or water damage.  Review the coverage offered to determine if you need additional insurance to cover the full value of your belongings.  The storage provider might offer you additional coverage, or you can purchase it through a licensed insurance professional.

5. Are there prohibited items?
When making business or personal storage plans, consider that all storage facilities have restrictions on what they will allow you to store. This is for your own protection as well as that of the facility staff and other self-storage customers. As a general rule, any item or material that is considered "inherently dangerous" will not be allowed inside your storage rental. If you're not sure if an item is allowed, ask your facility staff before you move into your storage unit. Canned foods may be stored in storage units, but perishable food products such as pet food, produce or meats are not allowed. These may spoil or attract pests.

6. What are the benefits of using Real Storage?

• Flexible rental terms
• Multiple Unit Options (heated, drive up, interior, exterior, sizes)
• Receiving services, loading dock and elevator
• Office and retail rental options
• Complimentary moving van and trailer
• Flexible pin coded access options
• State of the art security and technology
• Boxes and Packing Supplies
• Self Service Capabilities
• Payment terms and options
• Tenant Protection packages
• Knowledgeable and Friendly Local Staff of Professionals
• Community Involvement

7. Anything else you would like to add?
With a wide range of self-storage unit sizes to choose from, Real Storage will be able to meet all of your self-storage requirements. Located 15 minutes from the airport or downtown and across the street from the new RCMP headquarters – come down and see Terry and the gang. Have them show you our different sized units to determine which storage solutions best fit your needs. Whether you are moving or simply need extra space, Real Storage is your solution for self-storage in Fort McMurray.

Call  us at 780 743 8084 (toll free 877 215 REAL(7325) or visit us at realstorage.ca today!

Quote rate code – HGFM2K16 to get your special rate!